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Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsHow to Safely and Ethically Film Police Misconduct
*When a friend sent me this article, I was surprised to see it came from Teen Vogue - good on them!
The human rights organization WITNESS provides guidance on exposing violent and discriminatory policing.
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At the human rights organization WITNESS, where I work as the senior U.S. program coordinator, weve learned that video has a greater chance of making an impact when its filmed ethically and strategically, and released in coordination with advocacy and legal efforts. Using the camera in your pocket can be a valuable way to ensure the world bears witness to abusive policing and systemic racism, help hold authorities accountable, and advocate for the real safety of our communities. To help you film safely, ethically, and effectively, see the guidance below:
1. Safety first
The most important thing to consider when filming a police interaction is safety your own and of the person you are filming. Filming or witnessing can escalate a situation, and sometimes bystanders become the target of police violence. The risk to your safety can depend on your identity your background, race, gender, ethnicity, and so on so its important to think about whether or not you feel comfortable filming before you press record. There are important ways to bear witness even if you dont film, including standing in solidarity to let the person being targeted know they are not alone, or by taking notes. No footage is ever worth your safety.
2. Know your rights
In the United States, you have a 1st Amendment right to record law enforcement in public spaces as long as you dont interfere even during COVID-19. But remember:
Whether or not you are interfering is totally up to the police officer in the moment (and later up to a judge or jury), so its best to keep at least six feet of distance (or a cars length) between you and the incident while filming, especially during social distancing.
If the police officer tells you to back up, comply with their orders. You can even film your feet as youre backing up and say aloud, Im complying with orders.
If the police officer tells you to stop filming, you can assert your right to film if you feel comfortable doing so.
You can stay safe and still film critical footage from a distance, like from a window, balcony, rooftop, or fire escape.
(Many more tips at link) https://www.teenvogue.com/story/how-to-film-police-safely
NNadir
(33,368 posts)soothsayer
(38,601 posts)But, yes, good advice.