As cities across the United States, including Chicago and Los Angeles, witness peaceful protests against policies of President Donald Trump, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul has released a crucial advisory to assist protesters in exercising their rights safely.
The advisory, titled “Know Your Rights Advisory: Safely Participating in Peaceful Protests in Illinois,” aims to educate Illinois residents about their rights and responsibilities when engaging in peaceful demonstrations protected under the First Amendment.
In conjunction with the advisory, Raoul also circulated a guidance summary tailored for local law enforcement to clarify the key provisions of the Illinois TRUST Act, which restricts state and local enforcement from participating in federal civil immigration enforcement.
Attorney General Raoul emphasized the importance of peaceful protest, stating that it is imperative to address the injustices he sees unfolding nationwide as a result of the Trump administration’s directives.
He articulated his belief that individuals have a responsibility to express their views peacefully while adhering to the laws.
“Acts of violence, destruction of property and obstruction of law enforcement are unacceptable, and local law enforcement is responsible for addressing such acts,” Raoul remarked.
He further acknowledged the proactive role that local law enforcement in Illinois has already played in ensuring the safety of both protesters and public spaces while allowing for free speech.
To further support protesters, he encouraged them to familiarize themselves with the “Know Your Rights Advisory” available on his office’s website before attending a demonstration.
In the advisory, Raoul clarifies that while the First Amendment protects free speech and peaceful assembly, it also carries a responsibility for protesters to express themselves lawfully.
Notably, he warns that physical violence, destruction of property, and other illegal activities are not shielded under First Amendment protections.
Should there be a need, local law enforcement officers have the authority to manage crowds and control traffic to maintain order during demonstrations.
Raoul also reminded protesters that it is a federal crime to assault, intimidate or interfere with government officials performing their official duties.
Furthermore, he stated that obstructing or impeding federal civil immigration enforcement operations could lead to serious legal consequences.
Under the Illinois TRUST Act, local law enforcement is prohibited from participating in civil immigration enforcement actions.
While officers are permitted to act to maintain public safety, Raoul emphasized that they must always respect the constitutional and civil rights of each individual.
This includes the crucial stipulation that no one should be stopped, arrested, or detained solely based on their citizenship or immigration status.
For more information, the Attorney General’s “Know Your Rights Advisory: Safely Participating in Peaceful Protests in Illinois” and the “Guidance Summary: Key Provisions of the Illinois TRUST Act” are available on the Attorney General’s website.
Raoul concluded by urging individuals who believe their rights or the rights of others are in jeopardy to remain calm and document pertinent information, refraining from using force or resisting arrest.
He also provided guidance for reporting any alleged civil rights violations or TRUST Act infringements by law enforcement, directing individuals to contact his office at 1-877-581-3692 or via email at [email protected].
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