Preparing for November 5th

As we move into the 2024 election season it is important to prepare for the aftermath of the election. Regardless of the outcome, there is potential for civil unrest. Action Link (a LGBTQ organization that focuses on policy and advocacy work) has developed a plan in the event of civil unrest. Plan ahead as we move into November and know that social workers are here to help advocate for those in need. 
Preparing for Potential Civil Unrest During an Election Cycle
Stay Informed

• Monitor the news. Follow reliable news sources to track developments.
  
• Sign up for local alerts. Utilize any community alert systems and emergency apps such as FEMA, CodeRED, or city-specific services.
  
• Monitor social media. It is helpful to follow local law enforcement and community organizations for real-time updates, but be cautious about the potential for misinformation to be spread.
  

Create Your Safety Plan

• Identify safe zones. Know where the locations are for police stations, hospitals, and LGBTQ+ community centers in your area.
  
• Plan evacuation routes.  Prepare multiple routes to leave your home or city if necessary.
  
• Stay home if possible. Avoid crowds, protests, and large gatherings where tensions may escalate.
  
• Create a family and friends communication plan. Agree on how you will contact each other in an emergency and where to meet if separated.
  

Stock Up on Essentials

• Food and water. Store at least 72 hours' worth of non-perishable food and one gallon of water per person in your household per day.
  
• First aid kit. Include basic medical supplies and any personal medications.
  
• Get cash. Have cash on hand in case ATMs or digital payment services are disrupted.
  
• Fuel up. Keep your car’s gas tank full.
  
• Supplies. In case of power outages, have flashlights, batteries, portable chargers, and radios ready to go.
  

Ensure Your Home is Secure

• Doors and windows. Ensure your home is locked and consider reinforcing entry points if tensions are high.
  
• Outdoor lighting. Use motion-activated lights to deter trespassers.
  
• Neighborhood coordination. Stay in touch with trusted neighbors to monitor unusual activity.
  
• Emergency equipment. Fire extinguishers, basic tools, gas shut off tool, and protective gear (masks, goggles, gloves).
  

Self-Defense Awareness

• Non-lethal options. Consider pepper spray or personal alarms for protection.
  
• Training. Take basic self-defense classes to feel more prepared.
  
• Avoid violence. Engage in de-escalation strategies whenever possible to reduce confrontation.
  

Mental and Emotional Preparedness

• Manage stress. Practice self-care and mindfulness to remain calm.
  
• Friends and family reassurance: Prepare children and other dependents with simple explanations and instructions to reduce anxiety.
  
• Support network. Maintain connections with family, friends, or mental health resources to help cope with uncertainty.
  

Engage with Your Community

• Local organizations: Know what local civil groups or community programs offer support during unrest. Find your local LGBTQ+ community center here.
  
• Help neighbors in need. When it is safe, check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors and offer help.
  

Legal Awareness

• Know your rights. Be informed about the laws related to curfews, protests, and emergency declarations.
  
• Document encounters. If you witness unrest, record interactions if safe to do so.
  

Contingency Planning for Employment or Travel

• Remote work. If possible, arrange to work remotely if your workplace is near volatile areas.
  
• Cancel unnecessary travel: Avoid travel if possible, especially to areas prone to unrest.
  
• Supply chain issues. Be aware of possible disruptions in deliveries or public services.
  

For more information visit: ​https://www.lgbtactionlink.org/