“We Do Not Plan or Condone Any Deliberate Arrests” Jacksonville Immigrant Rights Alliance Publishes Guidelines on Camp Blanding Protest

Several activist groups across North Florida, including Gainesville, will be protesting the proposed immigrant detention center at Camp Blanding tomorrow at 3:00 p.m.

The Jacksonville Immigrant Rights Alliance (JIRA) appears to be the main organizing group based on promotional images for the protest.

JIRA published guidelines for the demonstration on their Instagram, which include general information about parking and restrooms, as well as their policy on deliberately getting arrested in an act of protest or physically resisting Camp Blanding.

Arrest and Physical Resistance Policy:

The post by JIRA states, “We do not plan or condone any deliberate arrests, encampments, or attempts to enter Camp Blanding property during Saturday's mobilization. Our focus is on making our voices heard and standing in solidarity with immigrants. Marshals will ensure we stay unified and safe.”

JIRA’s policy brought criticism, with a commenter on the post stating it “implies marshals will be policing the actions of protesters.”

One of the marshals replied to their comment, stating, “Marshals are community volunteers trained in de-escalation. They are trained to protect protesters from police aggression, counter-protesters, and unsafe situations. Unlike law enforcement, they have no authority to control people, only to help maintain safety so everyone's voice can be heard and everyone can get home safe. This is standard practice at all of our events.”

Location and Parking:

According to the post by JIRA, protesters driving will park along a grassy strip across the street from the entrance of Camp Blanding along Florida Hwy 16.

Protesters will be able to walk or take a shuttle from where they park.

JIRA encouraged protesters to carpool.

Restrooms:

According to the post by JIRA, the closest restroom is at a Circle K ten minutes away.

The shuttle will be available to give protesters rides from the protest to the Circle K.

Suggested Supplies:

JIRA recommended protesters bring water, snacks, folding chairs, umbrellas and first aid kits.

Roles and Safety:

According to the post by JIRA, the protest will have supply runners to deliver snacks, along with crossing guards and heat safety monitors.

The post states police liaisons will “monitor interactions.”