Proxy Marches Action Playbook

Use When

Activists face sham trials, coerced confessions, or denial of counsel.

Media exclusion from protests or “riot” declarations occurs.

1
Confirm cases with lawyers and human rights groups to verify facts and obtain consent.
2
Map accessible routes near courts or ministries and check for permit and notification requirements.
3
Create portrait boards and leaflets with simple case facts and one clear, specific demand.
4
Assign roles for marshals, medics, and legal observers while briefing families on security and support.
5
Share verified case details through networks and partner organizations to maximize public impact.
6
Recruit through faith, student, and labor groups to ensure high numbers and protective visibility.

Buenos Aires, 1977–present, families marched with portraits of the disappeared; visibility helped launch CONADEP and later prosecutions.
Moscow, 2019, family-led marches for political prisoners; pressure yielded releases and case reviews.
Hong Kong, 2019, relatives’ processions amplified detainee lists and legal aid, leading to dropped charges in some cases.

Families carry charge cards and QR codes to verified documents, concluding with a letter drop.
Marches near hospitals highlight detainees denied care while medics distribute rights leaflets and hotline numbers.
Faculty march from universities to courts, reading short statements and announcing upcoming hearing dates.

Individual

80–300 marchers anchored by 10–40 family members, plus 12–20 marshals, 3–4 legal observers, 2 medics, a media team, and trained de-escalators.

Use of Action Playbook educational materials must adhere with Unruled Masses’ Terms of Service.

Stay Nonviolent. Coordinate Strategically. Take Back Your Power.