For All Who March Today: A Blessing and Guide

A Meditation by Rev. Cameron Trimble

Good morning good people,

This is a rare Saturday post from me, but today is an important day.

For those of you in the United States and preparing to participate in protests today, first, THANK YOU. Showing up matters. For those in other nations, thank you for being in solidarity with us. Pray for/with us today.

If you are new to protesting, being prepared makes a big difference in your experience and keeps those with you safe. Here is a list of items you should consider bringing:

• A bag/backpack

• Water (often organizers will have water at the protest as well, but start with a full bottle on your person)

• Washcloth

• Bandana/facemask

• First Aid Kit

• Hat/Sunglasses/Sunscreen

• Plain, layered clothing

• Cash/ID

• Powerbank to charge your phone

• Speaking of phone, burner phones are always better at protests. If that isn’t possible, turn off your biometic unlocking features.

Pro Tips -

• If you have long hair, put your hair up. If there was conflict, you don’t want anyone to be able to grab your hair.

• Don’t wear eye contacts. If you encounter sprays/gas, you will need to quickly flush your eyes.

• Don’t post pictures to social media that could be used by law enforcement to identity undocumented/vulnerable people.

• Deescalate always. If someone acts aggressively, retreat and seek out law enforcement or clergy. Safety first!

Finally, today we will be embodying the deep love of our faith and care for the common good. Today we will walk on holy ground, made so by our actions and witness. I offer this blessing to all of us as we walk the Way of Love:

Go gently, good soul. Go bravely.
You carry more than a sign—
you carry the vision of a world where all belong.
May your steps leave a trail of liberation behind you.
And may you return home not just safe,
but more deeply connected to the sacred work that lies ahead.

We are in this together,

Cameron