Things I consider coordinating the nightly BLM DA's: head still spinning a bit from yesterday (yay PTSD & whiplash!), but a thread about what I do throughout an action. I have networks that allow me to do lot at once, but ANYTHING that you can take initiative on helps. #DefendPDX
About 15 minutes before the stated march time, I check the crowd. Do I think we'll have at least 100-150 people by then? If I'm doubtful, I ask the crowd how they feel about waiting another 15 minutes. This makes waiting INTENTIONAL and less anxious.
Also 15 minutes out, I check in with the motorcade and any bikes present to come forward. Some nights it's strong and already has a route, other times it's sparce and you need to throw something together. In general: avoid overpasses, and neighborhood streets are smarter.
Get a few marchers who know the way and make sure they're at the front. About ten minutes from march time, give a 10 minute warning so aid can pack up.
Alright that's all for now, more later
Take stock of shields and how geared people are. If there's a strong shield line, we can push and hold effectively. If there aren't many shields or it is a light night, talk about adapting and focusing on evasion of the police and yanking them around all night.
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