Saint Paul Principles

In 2008, many different groups came together to protest the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, guided by these principles.

These aim to strengthen the movement across different organizational or ideological divides; encourage coordination and unity; keep people safe (for those who need/want that); and limit the harm the state can carry out against our movements.

TCC4J upholds these principles. Many of our members are newer to the movement, and called for the explanations you'll find below.

1. Our solidarity will be based on respect for a diversity of tactics and the plans of other groups.

• Recognize that under the very broad banners of #BlackLivesMatter or #StopKillerCops, different groups and individuals organize in different ways

• Groups have different tactics, goals, and messages

• You don't have to participate in actions you do not support, but treat them with tolerance and respect.

The actions and tactics used will be organized to maintain a separation of time or space. 

• Do not disrupt others’ actions

• This can keep “family-friendly spaces” separate from those with risk of arrest

• When sharing a time and location, come to an agreement on actions with the organizers

• If not in agreement, do your actions at a different time or place

3. Any debates or criticisms will stay internal to the movement, avoiding any public or media denunciations of fellow activists and events.

• Public dispute - in the media and on social media - hurts organizing and helps our adversaries

• Authorities use disputes, rumors, bad jacketing, and drama-inducing interlopers to destroy movements

• Our goals are more important than most grievances. Activist disagreements should worked out privately, between activists

• Most agree that individuals doing active harm to community members are an exception

4. We oppose any state repression of dissent, including surveillance, infiltration, disruption and violence. We agree not to assist law enforcement actions against activists and others.

• Don't be a snitch

• Don't share plans with authorities

• Don't trust cops to protect us

• Unless you are assigned to do so by lead tactical during a protest, never, ever respond to questions from law enforcement.