Protests, Your Rights, and the Law
Washington, DC, is the frequent site of political demonstrations and protests. While we encourage you to learn about current issues in the United States and join us in an attempt to understand multiple points of view, we caution F-1 and J-1 students against participating in demonstrations and protests. In the event they lead to arrests or violence, you could jeopardize your status in the United States and the goals and objectives you are here to achieve.
First: Know Your Rights and Safety
The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution grants U.S. citizens and international visitors alike the right to freedom of speech, press, and assembly, including peaceful protests. These rights are fundamental to American history and culture.
If you choose to participate in a demonstration or protest, make careful plans about how you will proceed if the situation escalates. Consider what safety equipment you may need, such as a mask and eye protection, and keep your phone well charged to be able to use navigation apps and to call emergency services and friends. Review these resources:
- Legal Resources
- Georgetown Policy on Speech and Expression
- Georgetown Implementation Guidelines for GU’s Policy on Speech and Expression
- Georgetown Code of Student Conduct
- What to Do If Stopped (ACLU video)
Second: Immigration Considerations
If you are arrested, convicted, or suspended or expelled from your academic program, you may be unable to remain a full-time student, which is a legal requirement for F-1 or J-1 status in the United States.
Furthermore, all criminal activity is recorded in a central database and can have severe consequences for international visitors during their stay and in future attempts to obtain a U.S. visa or enter the United States.
Among other things, harming a person or property or threatening to do so is cause for arrest in the United States. In the event a demonstration or protest leads to arrests or violence, you could jeopardize your status in the United States.
If you are unable to maintain your status, please promptly contact your IS Advisor for guidance. You may be legally required to depart the United States immediately or apply for a change of status with help from an immigration attorney.