Our communities are engaged in intentional and deliberate assertion of our power.
We are designing alternative practices, building institutions and infrastructure, imagining and changing our neighborhoods.
We are centering people and spaces that traditional investment or development lenses do not want to see.
We are facilitating our wild and beautiful ambitions.
We are doing us, uninterrupted.
In light of recent national events and the expanded presence of national law enforcement in Chicago, the organizing team at the Assembly of Black Possibilities has found it necessary to provide resources to help safeguard ourselves and our communities. We encourage all participants to review “Know Your Rights” materials provided by the ACLU and to move with awareness and care as we gather.
Know Your Rights:
The following information is not legal advice. It is, however, a resource to help you understand what your rights are when encountering law enforcement or military troops in Chicago.In deciding how and when to interact with law enforcement or the National Guard, it is important to recognize that your safety matters. At times, staying safe may mean obeying any direct commands, even if you feel you are being treated unfairly or illegally.
- You have the right to remain silent. If you wish to exercise that right, say so out loud.
- You have the right to refuse to consent to a search of yourself, your car or your home. Do not obstruct if the officer continues to conduct the search anyway. Clearly say: “I do not consent to a search.”
- Ask if you are free to go. If the police say you are not being detained, you have the right to calmly leave.
- You have the right to a lawyer if you are arrested. Ask for one immediately.
- Regardless of your immigration or citizenship status, you have constitutional rights
We recommend that you:
- Keep your hands where law enforcement can see them;
- Do not run away;
- Do not lie to law enforcement.
If You're Asked About Your Immigration Status:
- You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about where you were born, whether you’re a U.S. citizen, or how you entered the country.
- Do not lie about your citizenship status, your name, or provide false documents.
- If you’re not a U.S. citizen and have valid immigration documents, you should show them only if an immigration agent requests them.
If You Witness Police or Military Activity:
- You have a right to tell people about their rights.
- You have the right to photograph or film anything in plain view, including federal buildings and law enforcement. But you should not interfere.
- You can ask for officers’ names and badge numbers, as well as ask whom to call with questions about any arrests or actions by any federal agents. If possible, write these down, along with any other relevant observations.
Excerpted text from the ACLU of Illinois. Read more here.
Community Agreements:
We believe our power is in our relationships. These agreements are our shared commitment to co-creating a space rooted in care, respect, and collective growth.
No Oppressive Behavior
- No anti-Blackness, ableism, colorism, fatphobia, transphobia, queerphobia, classism, xenophobia, and all forms of harm are not tolerated—online or in-person.
Protect Each Other
- Please wear a high-quality mask indoors.
- If you’re not feeling well, please stay home.
Move with Care
- Move up, move back. – Make room for others.
- Don’t yuck someone’s yum. Joy looks different for everyone.
- Take care of your needs. Everyone’s needs matter.
- Consent-based culture. Ask for consent before taking someone’s photo, video, or sharing their words. And remember to give credit where it’s due
Be Accountable to the Collective
- Mistakes happen. Impact and intent both matter.
- If you cause harm, acknowledge it, listen, and commit to doing better.
- If you witness harm, don’t be a bystander. Check in or ask for help from AOBP Staff.
Revolutionary Selves. Revolutionary Lives. Revolutional Relationships.
- Ensure that you are respectful and respected
- Hold yourself accountable before things fall apart.
- It’s the strength, quality and character of our relationships that make this work possible.
HEALTH & SAFETY
All attendees agree to comply with any applicable Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and State of Illinois guidance.
However, here are additional details of how we plan to approach this onsite:
- Masks, COVID-19 tests, and sanitizer will be available at check-in upon request.
- Social distancing comfort-level stickers will also be available at check-in with the following identifiers
- 🔴 RED: Waves Welcome
I prefer to keep physical distance and connect through conversation, eye contact, and presence. Please maintain 6+ feet of space and avoid physical contact. Waves, smiles, and verbal greetings are perfect! - 🟡 YELLOW: Mindful Distance
I'm comfortable with some closer interaction but prefer you ask first. I may be okay with brief, consensual contact like handshakes or elbow bumps, but please check in before approaching closely or touching. - 🟢 GREEN: Contact Comfortable I'm comfortable with physical greetings and closer proximity. Handshakes, hugs, high-fives, and standing closer together feel good to me. I'll still respect you if you need more space.
- Attendees are encouraged to stay home if they feel unwell.
MEDICAL SUPPORT
- A certified on-site medic will be available throughout the event.
- The medic station will be located at Guest Services at check-in near the entrance.
- For medical emergencies, call 911 first and notify event staff immediately following.
The Convene Safety Plan can be found here.
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
In the event of a medical emergency, call 911 first, then notify event staff.
Fire/Medical/Police: 911
Event Production: 708.401.7545
ACCESSIBILITY
- The venue is ADA-compliant.
- Live captioning (CART services) will be provided in each programming space
- Accessible restrooms, entrances, and seating are available.
- If you need additional accommodations, please contact Wagner Lane Productions at 708.401.7545.
- Should you require mobility assistance during an evacuation, notify a staff member or security personnel upon arrival.
INCIDENT REPORTING
Any incidents involving injury, harassment, or unsafe behavior should be reported to event staff or security immediately. Reports will be handled confidentially and with care. We are committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment. All reports will be taken seriously and reviewed with discretion.
LOST & FOUND
- The Lost & Found will be managed at Guest Services at check-in near the entrance.
- If someone becomes separated from the group or is reported missing, notify event staff or security immediately. A coordinated search will begin using venue security and staff.