How to Assert Your Rights As an African American

Steps

1. 1
   Know your rights. Take the time to study the Constitution and your local laws. The Bill of Rights is one of the most important things you can learn about.
2. 2
   Know how to assert them. There are several videos that can be found online that will help you in this manner.
3. 3
   During a confrontation with police, watch what you say. Do not admit guilt. Remember, you have the fifth amendment protecting you in that regard. In most areas, it is not a crime to lie to police.
4. 4
   Watch out for trick questions. If an officer is trying to enter your home, or search your car, you have the right to deny them entry. However, they will often ask questions like, "Can we search your car, or do you have something to hide?" Specify that you have nothing to hide, however they may not perform said search. If an officer tries to perform a search without consent, remember this. Anything they might obtain becomes inadmissible in court.
5. 5
   Ensure that you express your knowledge of your legal rights. Many police officers play African Americans as ignorant, taking advantage of them to meet quotas. Do not become one of this number. By showing the officer that you have knowledge of your legal rights, you will make yourself out to be a less tempting target.
6. 6
   Always enforce your rights. Develop the courage to do this, however, cooperate with the officer's instructions. Know where to draw the line though. If the officer says to pull over, PULL OVER. If the officer says to give him information that may be used to convict you, you have the right to reveal whatever you feel, or to remain silent.
7. 7
   Although it is prevalent, do not accuse officers of racial profiling. This may arouse contempt and anger, leading to police brutality. Instead make mental notes of felt violations that you can bring up with a lawyer later. Assert your rights regardless of what they may do to you. The constitution requires them to provide you with a lawyer. Bring any infringements up with them.
8. 8
   Many U.S. Colleges and businesses provide minorities with preferential treatment. Understand that although this may provide you with a small advantage, you must prove yourself just like anyone else. Colleges and businesses are like any other authoritarian establishment, they have standards they try hard to enforce. Although you may receive preferential treatment, hard work is still required. Prepare yourself. Act as though this advantage never existed.
9. 9
   Do not be afraid to assert your rights. Be prepared to fight it.

N.B Visit www.campusflava.com for latest updates 

 Tips

• Learn your rights. Do not let anyone infringe on them.
• Knowledge is power. Acquire it and use it.
• No man can give you freedom, if you are a man though, you will stand up and take it. The police will not try to protect your rights. It is your job to do so.
• If you face racism, face it head on. Let the perpetrator know you do not appreciate their acts, and let them know what they have done wrong.
• A little bit of research can go a long way. Study not only your rights, but other opportunities open to you. The world is full of opportunities, all you need to take advantage of them is a bit of knowledge and the desire to do so.
• Do not be afraid. You are an American, and have the rights inherent thus.

Warnings

• Do not attack law enforcement officers, or disobey their orders. They have a job to do. Cooperate, but still assert your rights.
• You may face adversity for asserting your rights. Be prepared for this: It may reflect fear in an oppressor, fear that you are right.
• The struggle for racial equality is dangerous. However, the end result is well worth our blood, sweat and tears.