SB 247: A Direct Attack on Our Right to Protest
- Drew Glover
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
In Alabama, the right to protest has been a cornerstone of our fight for justice and equality. From the Civil Rights Movement to present-day activism, peaceful demonstrations have been pivotal in challenging oppressive systems and advocating for change. However, a new legislative proposal, Senate Bill 247 (SB 247), threatens to undermine this fundamental right, particularly impacting Black communities and marginalized voices.
Understanding SB 247
Introduced by Senator Arthur Orr, SB 247 seeks to impose severe restrictions on protests in residential areas and near places of employment. Key provisions of the bill include:
Prohibition of Noise Amplification: The bill bans the use of artificial noise amplification devices, such as megaphones, during protests at or near residences, with the intent to harass, intimidate, or disturb.
Time Restrictions: It restricts picketing or protesting at or near a residence during the period starting 30 minutes after sunset and ending 30 minutes before sunrise.
Blocking Access: The bill prohibits blocking public roads, or the ingress or egress of any residence or place of employment while picketing or protesting.
Municipal Ordinances: SB 247 allows municipalities and counties to adopt ordinances or resolutions to regulate the time frame and noise level of protests in residential areas.
Violations of these provisions would result in criminal penalties, including Class C or Class B misdemeanors for repeat offenses.
The Implications for Our Communities
SB 247 is a direct assault on our constitutional rights and a tool to silence dissent, particularly among Black activists and marginalized groups. Here's how this bill threatens our communities:
Silencing Marginalized Voices: Historically, protests near the residences or workplaces of public officials have been effective in holding them accountable. SB 247 aims to suppress these forms of protest, disproportionately affecting those who have been systematically marginalized.
Criminalizing Peaceful Protest: By introducing criminal penalties for certain protest activities, the bill seeks to intimidate individuals from exercising their First Amendment rights, further entrenching systemic injustices.
Vague and Overbroad Language: The bill's ambiguous definitions of "residence" and "place of employment" create a broad scope that can be exploited to target specific groups or individuals, leading to selective enforcement.
A Call to Action: Stand Against SB 247
We cannot allow SB 247 to pass without a fight. This bill represents a clear attempt to erode our rights and silence our voices. We must come together to oppose this legislation and protect our fundamental freedoms.
Here's how you can take action:
Join Our Email Advocacy Campaign: Project Say Something is organizing an email campaign directed at Senator Arthur Orr, urging him to withdraw SB 247. Your voice matters. Use this link to send an email expressing your opposition to this bill and emphasize the importance of protecting the right to protest.
Spread the Word: Share information about SB 247 within your networks. Educate your community about the implications of this bill and encourage others to participate in the advocacy campaign. Re-share our posts on Facebook and Instagram and encourage your community to get involved.
Engage with Local Representatives: Contact your local legislators to express your concerns about SB 247. Personal stories and collective voices can influence decision-makers.
Stay Informed and Involved: Follow Project Say Something for updates on SB 247 and other initiatives aimed at promoting justice and equality in Alabama.
Donate to Project Say Something: Power the movement with your dollars and support Project Say Something in this critical work of educating the public and holding elected officials accountable. Donate here.
To participate in the email advocacy campaign, please use this link or visit our website to learn more about Project Say Something
Together, we can resist attempts to silence our voices and continue the fight for justice and equality in Alabama. Let's stand united against SB 247 and any legislation that seeks to undermine our constitutional rights.
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