We sometimes hear that "anarchists compromise people's safety by causing damage during demonstrations." Let's defuse this type of argument. Of course, there may be individuals who behave in unacceptable ways, such as throwing a projectile without considering the potential danger it poses to the crowd of demonstrators or engaging with a fascist and leaving weaker comrades behind, despite having the capacity to stand up to the fascists. This kind of behavior does not represent an entire group or political ideology. Moreover, these individuals can receive constructive criticism from their peers and improve their actions in future situations. The same principle applies to activist groups: constructive criticism regarding how to enhance safety for people is critical. For instance, including considerations of exit routes during an action or quieter sections within a demonstration, is crucial and should be openly communicated and welcomed.
Despite the prejudices often associated with anarchists, black blocs, and other activist groups known for their more intense militant practices, these practices are not synonymous with negligence or incompatible with collective security. In fact, these groups employ a range of collective care practices during demonstrations and actions. Here is an overview of some of these practices.
The black bloc is a group tactic, not a type of activist. Participants in a black bloc dress in black and mask themselves to conceal their identities during a demonstration. This tactic serves two main purposes: It reduces the risk of arrest for their fellow activists, as it becomes difficult for the police to target a specific individual when the crowd appears as a homogeneous and anonymous block. Secondly, it lowers the risk of being identified and arrested by law enforcement officers who often film and photograph demonstrations.
Distributing materials such as COVID masks and glasses (to help other comrades complete their black bloc outfit) is a common practice.
Staying together during the demonstration helps minimize the chances of the crowd being split into two by the police, which can make those present vulnerable. Resisting the usual dispersal attempts by the police, such as tear gas, and making an effort to remain in a group is also a way of protecting yourself and your comrades. Nobody wants to find themselves alone with their three friends in front of the riot police amid a cloud of tear gas. Similarly, staying together when the demonstration ends and returning to the metro as a group rather than going alone can minimize the chances of being harassed and arrested after the demonstration.
Demonstration medics, who possess first aid knowledge, are often, if not always, present in more radical demonstrations where police repression is expected. They carry their first aid kits along with "Maalox," a half-and-half mixture of water and milk of magnesia (an over-the-counter antacid available in pharmacies). This mixture is very useful in relieving the burning sensation in the eyes caused by pepper spray and tear gas.
Legal support is typically provided by the groups organizing the protests. The contact number of a lawyer is distributed at the beginning of the demonstration, which can be useful in case of an arrest. These groups may also offer financial assistance during court proceedings. Anarchists ensure that no one is left alone in the justice system!
The majority of comrades exercise "common sense" during demonstrations and actions: they help fellow comrades to get up when they fall, avoid leaving slower runners alone to face the police, refrain from throwing objects that could harm their fellow demonstrators, and prevent street furniture from falling at the feet of comrades who are walking with them and might trip.
Our fight is against oppression, state violence, and the violence of murderous corporations. We aim to fight together, for a sustained period. To achieve this, let us take care of our comrades, especially during moments of repression.