ACLU of Georgia Legal Observer Malissa Sole braved the sweltering heat on July 4 at the “Independence from Tyranny Day” march and rally, where she witnessed people of all ages, some holding clever protest signs or with dogs in tow, listen to community leaders explain what’s at stake for democracy here at home and nationwide.
The rally began with a march, starting near the finish line of Peachtree Road Race, and continued along the Beltline toward the Old Fourth Ward Multi-Purpose Field. Once gathered and stationary, the crowd chanted in response to the leaders’ calls for action. Sole and other observers watched for violations of protesters' free speech.
Advocates livened the usually-quiet green space, near Sole’s neighborhood where political activity once seemed to hold a stronger presence. She welcomed the rally, noting disruption to everyday life is necessary in times like these. Despite a few counter protesters, she said the event was mostly peaceful and she enjoyed helping people exercise their protest rights
“I find all of these events inspiring because they are, by and large, attended by folks who want better for themselves, their neighbors, their communities, and our country as a whole,” Sole said.
Sole is eager to keep volunteering as a legal observer because it allows her to defend her freedoms rather than surrender them. Other legal observers said they’ve stepped up to “make sure all voices are heard,” “defend constitutional rights,” and “alleviate concern about keeping protests peaceful.”
Protests against the Trump administration’s policies have built up to a focused, organized movement over the past few months. Georgians and protesters across the country are speaking out against executive overreach and abuses of power, including ongoing attacks on the judiciary, the weaponization of immigration law enforcement, and the firing of career civil servants.
To meet this moment, we have reaffirmed our commitment to a more engaged and resilient public, ready to defend and exercise their rights. Our legal observer program supports that goal. The ACLU of Georgia is recruiting and training volunteers to monitor law enforcement conduct, document protest activity, and support the right to free speech. The next legal observer training is set for August 12. Check back on our events section soon for more information.
“Legal observers are our eyes and ears on the ground, documenting abuses and ensuring protesters aren’t left vulnerable,” said Sarah Hunt-Blackwell, ACLU of Georgia First Amendment Policy Counsel. “This training gives you the tools to hold power accountable. Helping to preserve what's left of our democracy won't happen overnight, but as a legal observer, you play a role in keeping people from being silenced or punished for trying."”
If you’re looking to request legal observers for a protest, fill out this form.
Learn about “Protest Ready GA”
Protest Ready Ga is the ACLU of Georgia’s initiative aimed at empowering Georgians to raise their voices and protect democracy. The Protest Ready GA hub provides communities with the knowledge, tools, and support to do so peacefully — know your protest rights info, permit guides, downloadable resources, and more. It’s all here in one place.