Resistance

This protocol can be read according to the needs of the group, section by section, individually or collectively.

First and foremost, if possible, we recommend to dare : dare to take initiative, dare to speak up, dare to take your time (as opposed to time constraints imposed from the outside) to carefully think through an action or a response to external interlocutors, dare to trust the emerging collective. Dare to acknowledge that there are many emotional layers within a group, dare to step out of urgency when necessary.

In summary, we could add "Dare" in front of every sentence that follows.

Before the start of a meeting, assign roles (see Possible Roles). For example, designate a facilitator to keep the discussion focused on key topics and a coordinator to take the meeting minutes. Once the roles are assigned, the facilitator is responsible for:

• Introducing non-verbal communication gestures if they are not already familiar to the group (see Non-Verbal Communication).

• Encouraging participants to be mindful of their speaking time during discussions. Invite those who tend to speak more (without singling anyone out) to make space for others. Meanwhile, acknowledge that many people feel uncomfortable speaking in public, reassure them that this is not an issue, and encourage those who are willing to try—if possible.

• Proposing a rotation of roles for future meetings.

• Establishing, at the beginning of the process, a stance on the role of absentees. For example, collectively defining how to validate decisions made in their absence.

• When setting up a meeting, consider spatial, acoustic, and visual factors. For example: meeting outdoors provides visibility, which may attract interested individuals—or, on the other hand, opponents who should be taken into account. It can also present acoustic challenges. Meeting indoors offers privacy and protection, helping to ensure confidentiality. Strive to find a balance and consider technical solutions if needed.

• Favor a more open and flexible seating arrangement rather than a closed, intimidating circle.

• If possible, provide a microphone to ensure everyone can hear and to minimize interruptions.

• Keep the group inclusive and welcoming: add extra chairs when needed without necessarily expanding the circle—consider a more fluid, organic seating arrangement instead.

The temperature check is a simple tool for group voting and decision-making. At the facilitator’s signal, all participants raise their hands at chest level and gesture:

• Towards the sky → "I agree."

• Horizontally in front → "I’m somewhat okay with it / I don’t agree but can go along with it."

• Towards the ground → "I disagree."

Respect previously made decisions. If they are reconsidered, make sure to inform absent members.

• Display the schedules and locations where events and meetings take place somewhere visible, especially for people without mobile phones.

• Organize concrete and collective activities (making signs, crocheting, etc.) in small groups or as part of a participatory project to foster connections.

• Dare to ask questions and take initiatives.

• Maintain an open mind and kindness toward those who are not convinced by the cause.

• There is no shame in trying, stepping up, approaching people, asking if help is needed, and making yourself available.

• Anyone can take the initiative if they wish and has the right to explore their needs, desires, and evolve within the group in real-time.

• Respect your own limits and accept that moments of uncertainty or feeling useless are part of the process.

• Clearly distribute tasks (shopping, scavenging, prep work, cooking, serving, cleaning, etc.).

• Ensure role rotation or agree to keep the same role for several days, maintaining flexible communication.

• Use strings and ropes for hanging, as they are easier to remove than tape.

• Ensure that posters can be taken down from high or potentially dangerous positions without risk, especially for external individuals (for legal responsibility reasons).

• Do not film people's faces, only the actions.

• If faces are filmed, blur them before making the footage public.

These observations and recommendations are the result of several days of "strike" at the Geneva School of Art and Design (HEAD) in February 2024, when students and individuals affiliated with HEAD, many of them inexperienced in political activism, mobilized in response to the institution's stance on the genocide in Palestine.