THE RIGHTS-EXERCISER’S PLEDGE
A Personal Commitment to Liberty, Respect, and the Rule of Law
I pledge to be an informed, respectful, and responsible citizen. I recognize that my rights are not privileges — they are protections earned through struggle, enshrined in law, and preserved only through regular use. I honor the sacrifices made to secure them by using them clearly, calmly, and confidently. I respect the role of law enforcement in society, and I understand that the best way to ensure fairness and safety — for myself and for others — is to know and exercise my rights without apology or hesitation.
- I pledge to exercise my rights at every appropriate opportunity.
Rights are not reserved for emergencies — they are meant to be used regularly and without shame. I will not waive them simply to appear cooperative. I understand that every time I assert my rights, I help preserve them for the next generation. - I pledge to treat all law enforcement officers with respect and composure.
I will not provoke or escalate. I understand that officers have a difficult and important job, and I will do my part to keep interactions calm and civil — while still standing firm in my rights. - I pledge to remain silent during questioning.
Even simple, honest answers can be misinterpreted or unintentionally incorrect — and that can have serious consequences. I will state, “I choose to remain silent and would like to speak with an attorney,” and then I will say nothing more. - I pledge to never consent to any search of my person, property, vehicle, or home.
Consent makes warrantless searches lawful. I will politely but clearly state, “I do not consent to any searches.” Exercising this right protects not just me, but all citizens. - I pledge to ask, “Am I being detained, or am I free to go?”
I will not assume my legal status in an encounter. If I am free to go, I will go. If I am being detained, I will remain silent and await legal counsel. - I pledge to understand the difference between cooperation and self-incrimination.
I know that police may ask questions to gather information as part of an investigation. While their role is not to harm me, it is also not their role to protect me during questioning. Their goal is to build a case — not to defend mine. I will not assist in my own prosecution. - I pledge to uphold the law and conduct myself within it.
I will educate myself on my rights and responsibilities. I will not break the law. I will use the law — with discipline and integrity — to protect myself and others. - I pledge to film and document public encounters with law enforcement when lawful and safe.
Video is a powerful tool for transparency and accountability. I will use it wisely, without interfering, to ensure all parties are protected by the record. - I pledge to refuse any interview or questioning without legal representation.
I will never waive my right to a lawyer. I will not be intimidated into conversation. I will let my silence speak for me until proper counsel is present. - I pledge to pass this knowledge on.
I will teach my children, my family, and my community how to assert their rights calmly, legally, and confidently. I will help build a culture that values freedom and understands how to protect it.