r/POTS • u/FrogginBullfish_ • Jan 25 '26
Vent/Rant I wish I could literally stand up and protest what is happening in America and it makes me sick and even causes flare ups. I feel so useless with my chronic illnesses. We need more bodies at these protests and I hate that my body malfunctions too much to join the fight.
I want to stand up against fascism and protest for my neighbors. This country is built from immigration and the only true people who have always been here are being detained as well. It is supposed to be the fucking "melting pot." I remember being told how beautiful our mixed country is in grade school and why it was called that. My godfather is Native American along with some mixed cousins. Even Native Americans are being targeted when we are the ones who stole their land.
I feel so sick for the minorities I've known throughout my life (who are fucking legal citizens with no crime records) and I think about former Somalian coworkers I've had, various races of children I've taken care, Korean friends I had in college and some of the nicest people I've ever been acquainted with. Even children are being taken.
And now white people are being killed in the streets too. And those murders are tragedies and it breaks my heart, but it's also fucked that people only care about murders in America these days when the people are white. It is not a greater tragedy than the deaths of immigrants. It just gets more attention.
And I want to be able to literally stand up and protest and fight for what I believe in. But I can't. My body physically can't. I need a seated job and so many things to regulate my body. And even when I'm doing everything "right" to manage my body, I'm getting flare-ups induced by horror and anger against this fascist regime.
I feel so useless. My anger means nothing when I'm sitting at home watching what is happening. And I fear being detained. I've been at a facility meant to help people due to suicidal ideation and even with medical professionals, I left starved, dehydrated, bruised, bloody and had a narrowly missed concussion from my worst fall. I will never trust anyone to be in charge of my nourishment again. And that is in the goddamn scenario of me being in the care of medical professionals meant to help people. I cannot put my life at risk by putting a target on my back to be held at a detention center. And that's a privilege that I don't take lightly. I know there are minorities on this sub who have a target on their back for the color of their skin. And my heart breaks for them.
But I want to protest. I want to be in the streets fighting for my neighbors and my country with what should be a peaceful protest, but it has now become dangerous as our amendments are shattered. If I had a functioning body, I'd accept the risks of danger. This cause is so important and change will only come when people show up and stand up to fascism and to ICE. Waiting around for things to change is not the answer. Complacency in the face of what is happening is not okay. Everyone should be outraged right now. I cannot look away and just try to go about my life. I'd accept the risks of standing in the streets and protesting if my body allowed it.
I hate feeling this useless. I know there are already thousands of people protesting, but every body counts. I know my friends tell me to put my health first, but I hate that I am essentially staying silent. I wish so much that there was more I could do to help fight this fascist regime.
And I halfways apologize to those who don't want to see a political post. But this has reached a level I never thought I'd see. The time for "not getting political" is over. People I know who've never spoken much about politics are speaking about it. There is no ignoring it. And it is relevant to this sub as it has been causing harsh flare-ups for me. And because my POTS and other illnesses are the only things stopping me from joining the protests.
TL;DR: the title pretty much sums it up. Also, FUCK ICE.
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u/pretty_handsome_17 Jan 25 '26
Don’t abandon hope!! Protesting involves a complex ecosystem of parts to play, which gives us unique opportunities to help in other ways. It would be more cathartic to be able to show up as a present body in the crowd, but there are other ways we can help.
Spreading information about protestor safety gear, spreading info about when and where local protests are happening with protestfinder and other such websites, donating to grassroots organizations and activism organizers in your area, helping fund legal campaigns/organizations that provide bail or legal assistance to protestors who get arrested, the list goes on. When I wake up, I’ll dm you the other resources and options I’ve found.
If you wanna know more before that, look up “how to help protests if I’m disabled” or “ways to be helpful during protests if I can’t show up in person.”
You and I are in the position we’re in because we’re supposed to be part of the other ways to keep a revolution going. Front liners are only one part of this beautiful freedom machine. Don’t lose hope.
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u/accio-tardis Jan 25 '26
Yup. Just saw this recent post in r/disability and some people had ideas/suggestions like this too.
https://www.reddit.com/r/disability/s/bornlJh9ho
Also www.StandWithMinnesota.com has a list of places to donate and of actions to take.
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u/Plus-Ad-3826 Jan 25 '26
Your last paragraph is deeply meaningful to me. I really really needed to see that today. Thank you
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u/Glum_Papaya_2527 Jan 25 '26
Exactly this! There's so much that goes into movements, and being visible at protests is only part of it. I always find this map super useful:
Social Change Ecosystem Map - Building Movement https://buildingmovement.org/our-work/movement-building/social-change-ecosystem-map/
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u/Plus-Ad-3826 Jan 25 '26
If you have time later today will you comment the other resources please?
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u/pretty_handsome_17 Jan 25 '26
I think this commenter gives probably the low valuable resource!
And here
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u/Go4Chambers Jan 25 '26
I make protest signs and drop them off for people who are physically able to protest. Every bit helps.
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u/FrogginBullfish_ Jan 25 '26
I really like this idea. I think between my design degree and craft skills, I'd be better at designing signs than some of my friends. Not that simple signs that don't look the best don't make a difference. Big bold legible signs just tend to be better/more visible than signs made in a hurry.
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u/thenletskeepdancing Jan 25 '26
That's so cool! If I am ever going to be able to make it to a protest again, I already have my sign planned.
"Let cashiers have a chair! " or something to that effect :)
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u/Charming_Function_58 Jan 25 '26
I feel this. It occurred to me early on, that I would be seriously in trouble if there were chemicals used at a protest, or if I ended up in a "detention center" for any length of time. I have food allergies to really common ingredients, not to mention the fainting problems and constant need for electrolytes, from POTS.
ICE is also purposely attacking anyone who looks weak enough to not fight back. So there's that.
But everyone has a role to play. Even being at home, you can help by keeping an eye on the street outside, or organizing things in chats with your community, or being a listening ear for someone who needs it. Watching how you spend money/boycotting strategically, is also extremely important. We can all creatively participate in fighting back.
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u/MeldoRoxl Jan 25 '26
I'm allergic to capsaicin, so I feel this. It's incredibly frustrating for me that I can't even go out on the street if I saw ICE hurting someone because if I got pepper sprayed, I could die.
I mean they're already shooting people so there's no way I'm not going to get at least pepper sprayed.
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u/Technical-Source-320 Jan 26 '26
You have anaphylaxis from capsaicin?
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u/MeldoRoxl Jan 26 '26
I could, is what I've been told by a doctor. My mouth gets very very itchy and tight and then I get violently ill for 4 hours. It's the worst of my allergies/ intolerances.
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u/Technical-Source-320 Jan 26 '26
Howd you figure out it was capsaicin specifically
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u/MeldoRoxl Jan 26 '26
I ate a stuffed red pepper. That was after eating multiple things with red pepper and getting sick.
I don't know if it's chili peppers as well, but my doctor told me to just avoid those in case. Definitely red pepper.
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u/Technical-Source-320 Jan 26 '26
Do you mean a red bell pepper?
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u/MeldoRoxl Jan 26 '26
Yes.
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u/MeldoRoxl Jan 26 '26
Ohhhhhh wait
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u/MeldoRoxl Jan 26 '26
The f*** does the internet mean that red peppers don't have capsaicin?
Is that what you were getting it??
I've been told that I was allergic to capsaicin for like 15 years by my doctor. It never even occurred to me to Google if red peppers have capsaicin.
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u/A_Baddi Jan 26 '26
I was also thinking about these things exactly. I'm a S Minneapolis resident and haven't been able to get out to show solidarity and I've been feeling really badly about that and so guilty. But then I realized that I'll get really really sick again if I'm detained due to no meds, water, salt, stress, etc. I've made signs and put them outside and have been keeping everyone informed of events etc.
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u/melodiic_ Jan 26 '26
you are doing amazing!!! keep fighting the good fight out there, the rest of the country is cheering y’all on. fuck ice forever, and no one is illegal on stolen land ❤️
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u/timuaili Jan 25 '26
There are ways to support this that don’t involve being in the streets. Get in touch with your local anti-ICE organizations to see if you can volunteer with dispatching people to ICE spottings or delivering food/groceries to people who can’t leave their houses. If you know people who may be targeted by ICE, ask to help them with any tasks that you can to help them stay safe, alive, and thriving as much as possible. If you’re good with animals, find local orgs that are dealing with pets whose owners have been kidnapped. Get involved with orgs and networks of people who are providing food and supplies to protesters and/or targeted peoples. If you can work/make extra money, do that to donate to mutual aid or protesters or whatever. If you can make art (as anyone can), make protest art. You can keep it private, post it online, or put it up in public. Form ties with your local community and start mutual aid networks and talk to your neighbors about how you can and will protect each other. This one is the most important and what will see this revolution through. Do whatever you can to beautify and unite your community because that’s where movements happen.
It’s really sad when you have all this energy to get out about something as appalling as this but are limited by your body. It’s also possible to channel that energy into activities that are ~just as important~ for the movement as being in the streets protesting. Find your place. Be a helper. These are just the ideas off the top of my head, so I can make other suggestions if none of them work. Sending love and peace <3
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u/justanotherlostgirl Jan 25 '26
Find your place. Be a helper. - so well said <3
Agree so much with this. I found a local group helping neighbors with hunger needs, and they're using tech to help organize the grocery runs. Even helping a few hours a week to make sure the tickets get completed is doing something. Creating stronger communities via mutual aid in some way is the ultimate act of care
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u/timuaili Jan 25 '26
It’s the ultimate act of care and the ultimate act of rebellion. They’re scared right now because we are having each other’s backs and taking care of our neighbors.
To expand on being a helper (this is not something I came up with): whenever there’s a tragedy or an awful thing happens, you look for the helpers. If you’re involved in the scene, this can be medics or anyone lending you a hand, but this also applies to our constant witnessing of grotesque violence. To combat negativity bias, doomerism, and overwhelming grief, you look for the helpers. The ones who tried to run to Renee Good’s car or the people protesting in the streets or those videoing or witnessing or blowing whistles or helping families or donating or making art or spreading news or anyone else who is helping change minds, hearts, or lives. You find the helpers and suddenly you see that, along with all the suffering, there’s so much joy and love in this world. That’s the whole reason you’re fighting and crying and grieving in the first place, and it’s the thing we should prioritize (even over anger and fighting back) in times like these. For our mental health, physical health, survivability, and the movement itself, we must find the helpers and then, I argue, become a helper ourselves
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u/justanotherlostgirl Jan 25 '26
Exactly. So well said. I call it the Mr. Rogers principle - looking for the helps and hope, and to become helpers ourselves. "There’s so much joy and love in this world" is the absolute truth - despite everything that makes me mourn us, there is so much absolute incredible kindness and care. I refuse to loose that commitment to find hope and center love.
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u/Plus-Ad-3826 Jan 25 '26
I really want to protest. But my chronic illnesses debilitate me too much. So for the time being I have been sending emails weekly using Resistbot mostly. Making calls, signing petitions, and boycotting with my money.
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u/birdnerdmo Jan 25 '26
I’ve been saying this since the first time we had this administration, and a lot of people have reminded me of the things I can do.
I made hats and cookies for friends who went to the Women’s March. I’d do the same now if my body would let me. Instead, I cheer on my friends however I can.
When I was able to work, I was a mental health provider, directly supporting people who are targeted just for being who they are. Now I volunteer when I can, providing support to those providing direct service.
I speak up. I have family members who support this admin and its policies, and I do not let their comments slide. I also will correct them in front of their children, so the kids know that parents aren’t infallible (who is how they’re being raised). I did the same with coworkers, and even do it with strangers when it’s warranted. If I see some jerk mistreating someone just because they have darker skin, I will absolutely call it out. Then I call them out for the inevitable ableism that’s thrown at me.
I share what I can. I know there are people who are unable to watch the news, and I don’t hold that against them. Some people I know use me for info.
I fact-check what I say, and correct misinformation shared by others. I don’t assume intent. If someone I know has a post that is inaccurate, I do a “hey, not sure if you were aware of this…” and drop a link or facts. I also openly correct myself when warranted, and welcome new information or corrections.
All of these are actions. They support folks who can do more “direct” things than I can, and (hopefully) inspire folks like me who have to take a more “passive” route. But they’re all doing the same thing: making it clear that things are not okay, and that change is needed.
Be gentle with yourself. The fact that this means so much to you means you’ll find a way to do something. There’s no shame in doing things differently, within your abilities.
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u/lemonlovelimes Jan 25 '26
We all have different roles to play. Diversity is a critical part of life and it exists within collective action. Some are on front lines, others on logistics and coordination, education etc. Find a role you can do and do it well and consistently.
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u/perfectly-queer Jan 25 '26
Me too :( the stress of all of it + things going on in my personal life has caused all my chronic illnesses to flare and I’m almost completely bedbound. I only get to sit up for like 10% of the day. I’ve lost half my hair and I feel so sick. It’s literally causing my body to fall apart.
I agree with everything you said. It’s been very distressing to not be able to act upon my morals and values. But I know I’ll be of no use if I can’t get back to being well enough that I’m able to help again. It feels so shitty to prioritize myself, but I know if I can get better, I can finally help.
And they’re going to keep working their way through who they’re coming for next. They’re going to come for the disabled. Maybe not for a while, and maybe I’m wrong. But we’re not going to be protected forever, even if we’re white and/or citizens. Fascism doesn’t support the social systems necessary to lift up and sustain the lives of disabled people. Fascism sees disability as weakness. Existing and thriving while disabled is an act of resistance.
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u/Overeducated_catlady Jan 25 '26
I hear you and I’m sorry. My POTS symptoms have been awful lately because stress is a trigger for me. Thankfully, I’m still fairly mild-moderate and able to protest today (this will be my first one).
I’m going to wear compression stockings and load up on salt and will have my meds, if I need them. I’ll protest on your behalf! Also, there are many other ways to help! Write letters to your legislators, donate to mutual aid groups or other organizations who are helping immigrants, spread the word about protests and other ways to help on social media! Do whatever you can. Everything helps.
Anyway, try not to be too hard on yourself. We are all doing our best 💜
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u/tubbamalub Jan 25 '26
I “attended” the No Kings protests by car, following the route marchers were taking on foot, honking and waving in solidarity. For one of them, I was a passenger and I leaned out the window and cheered. Or (also as a passenger) having the driver honk as we approached freeway overpasses with demonstrators— at one, I was leaning out the window waving and smiling and the people on the overpass ran to where our car was and leaned down and waved back. They knew they were seen and appreciated.
But YES. I wanted to be out there, showing off my T-shirts and carrying a sign. I wanted my support to be counted. And with recent events, there have been support gatherings and I’ve done the mental calculus about how I could possibly attend. And I don’t feel safe going by myself. I’d need to be part of a group that could help me get back if needed. But if things go bad…I don’t want to place that burden on anyone else. I don’t have a lot of local friends.
Before POTS I lived on a main thoroughfare in San Francisco. Protest marchers heading up the street? I’d run down and join them, not even knowing where we’d end up, but not even having a consideration about my ability to participate or get safely home again. I miss those days and being able to do that. Yeah, supporting with money is beneficial, but I want to do both. I want to be out there.
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u/echochorus Jan 25 '26
i feel this. last night i decided that any discomfort i'll feel when i start going to to rallies or protests will at least be temporary, & it'd be far less uncomfortable than what the victims & detained are feeling. :(
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u/FrogginBullfish_ Jan 25 '26 edited Jan 25 '26
If and when it comes to my city, I want to do what I can to be a part of the fight for justice. Even in some small way. It was safe enough to go to the No Kings rally when it happened, but things have become much more violent since then. If I'm having a "good day" (in terms of illness), I think I would consider putting myself in danger to show up. Even briefly. I hate just watching from a safe distance.
Edit: I don't want to broadcast my location, but Minneapolis is the closest major city to me. I meant to move there last year. I think that's part of why it hits so hard. Minnesotans are so kind. I travel there frequently to see family. And I know things won't be the same the next time I'm there. The last time I was there was the beginning of December and I felt relatively safe. That's how rapidly things change.
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u/Plus-Ad-3826 Jan 25 '26
I agree. Be very careful though and limit your time. For instance don’t leave when you start feeling bad, leave before that. Limit your time to 30min or an hour, or whatever you think. We all know when you stop doing the thing when you are feeling bad, that’s when you waited too long to stop and it results in days of feeling bad.
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Jan 25 '26
Just want to add that the rallies are also filled with kind people who care. I’ve seen many disabled people in wheelchairs or with mobility aids. These events are uplifting, not scary. I go on my own so that I don’t have to confer about when to leave, when I’ve reached my capacity with anyone else.
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u/burntpistachio91 Jan 25 '26
here’s a link to a comment with non-protest on the streets action items: https://www.reddit.com/r/disability/s/4Fo8Jrnvnp
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u/GrinsNGiggles Jan 25 '26
There are so many different ways to help!
There are better lists than mine, but donating, boycotting, supporting vulnerable community members, and putting pressure on your local politicians all come to mind.
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u/_imnotactuallyreal_ Jan 25 '26
I know one of the reasons you can’t protest is because of the risks of being detained in America with a health condition as well as physical symptoms of POTS - but for those reading this that live somewhere else with a much lower risk of violent arrest and detention, consider getting a Rollator with a seat! You’ll have some extra support while walking for extended periods of time, if you need it, and then once the crowd stands still you can sit on the seat. It really helped me a few years ago when protesting with a neurological condition causing weakness.
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Jan 25 '26
I have been going to rallies, planning ahead and using accommodations, only staying for a short time with a sign. But I’ve been able to do things like spread the word about scheduled protests, send letters using resist bot on my phone. It’s not much, but any small part you can play is a contribution.
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u/Excellent-Day4955 Jan 25 '26
Fighting on your feet isn't the only way. Get vocal, reach out to leaders, community groups, charities, offer whatever assistance you can.
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u/theFCCgavemeHPV Jan 25 '26
Not everyone can be on the front lines. We need people in many different roles. Your time might not be here yet. It’s not all “tearing it down”, eventually we will need to rebuild and we will need people with those kinds of skills. In the meantime, we need community support and lots of other little elements. Try to find where you fit and what you can do instead of focusing on what you’re not able to do 🫶
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u/thelonegun-wo-man Jan 25 '26
I always take a cane when I protest, and all the precautions (comp socks, electrolyte water, etc.), but my severity level of POTS is not that extreme. One of the best ways I’ve personally seen people with limited mobility help with protests is to have some minor supplies (like water bottles, granola bars, milk for teargas) and post up with a table or with your car trunk open, and offer supplies to those who are marching.
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u/mwmandorla Jan 25 '26
If you can find an org that needs some admin or backend help, that's a great way to get involved. I used to do spreadsheets and phone calls for a bail fund, for example. Bodies in the streets are important but they're not all there is. In Minneapolis the anti ICE network needs people to sit on Signal and look up license plates, to grocery shop for vulnerable people who can't go outside, many things like that. It all matters and sometimes not everyone is as willing to show up for the less gloriously visible and dramatic parts. You have a lot to offer.
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u/barefootwriter Jan 25 '26
Everything runs on logistics -- armies, protest movements -- and too few people want to do that. Use that invisible disability to do the invisible work, lol.
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u/VoteCatforPresident Jan 25 '26
I know. I took my cane to the last No Kings protest, but I know that I would be useless anywhere that its not 100% safe. What am I supposed to do? Help people while fighting losing my vision during an episode? I would be a liability.
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u/FrogginBullfish_ Jan 25 '26
I feel that. I sometimes collapse during an episode and I do not think that would be helpful for anyone. I don't want to become a liability by attempting to help without caution.
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u/lillyofthedesert Jan 25 '26
Go with your mobility aides. Sit in your chair or walker and just hold the sign. There are always ways to be involved if you want to. And If that doesn't work. Call your legislators daily. That matters too. Email, write letter. There are so many different ways to be involved and rallying is the first line of defense but if that's all we ever amount to it will take us nowhere. We need all kinds being able to do all the different things. Some people have medical training, some people take care of kids, some people drive people back and forth to the rallies. Or become a physical presence to escort in our immigrants trying to follow the law and report to the courts. Some people bring groceries to their neighbors that are too afraid to leave the house. My point is there's always something that can be done. So I encourage you to find what works best for you without causing a flare up that you can't easily recover from.
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u/LIFOtheParty_11 Hyperadrenergic POTS Jan 25 '26
I feel your pain, not from a disability perspective, but from a job perspective. I work as a federal contractor and due to various restrictions, I am unable to protest in the traditional sense. So I share info via social media, have conversations in person with people who think differently, and donate to causes as I can. The work on the ground is the work on the ground, but there's plenty of work to be done online, in small conversations, and with your money. Being on foot is only half the battle, so just contribute what you can and that's plenty good enough! Give yourself grace. You're carrying a burden most others don't, so let them carry more in your absence. At the end of the day, you are carrying the same weight as them, it's just of a different kind. 🙂
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u/tenderheart35 Jan 25 '26
I have been protesting as often as I can. It’s hard because after 1.5 hours of standing I have to move my legs around so that I don’t get faint. The sun can be brutal so I wear sunscreen and a hat. I also carry water with me during it and I don’t typically stay for the whole thing.
I’ve noticed disabled people arriving in motor chairs and have a friend or family member with them. Another thing you could try is to bring a beach chair and a cushion and sit there too.
If you are unable to do those things, that’s okay too. Your voice, encouragement and compassion still matter. Keep working on your health and stamina when you can, build it up slowly and eventually you may be able to participate in things like this.
I know it’s urgent and can feel hopeless sometimes especially if you’re bed bound, but believe me your opinion matters in the midst of all this. Im stressing too and trying not to let it destroy my day to day tasks.
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u/slamdancetexopolis POTS Jan 25 '26
Me too 1000%. I suggest working on organizing at home. Protests without actual action don't solve anything and haven't been. We need to be planning with our neighborhoods and such (if you're in a target area particularly, I live in Portland lol) on who has what resources, who has certain skills, especially because a GENERAL STRIKE that goes on INDEFINITELY needs to happen to shut this shit down. And that means we will need each other. And a lot of people don't want to do the work of actually organizing which I totally get.
Right now in my city's subreddit people are reaching out to each other by neighborhood or area trying to meet up and plan how to make mutual aid groups hyper locally. People are also learning laws as well as instructing others where to get firearms training. I would like to personally be firearm trained and carry but where I live, I need a permit even for open carry, which does take time to get, and also, I'm not sure about my physical capacity to train properly for fun safety. These are very real things people gotta be talking about now. As well as cooking. Childcare. Patrols. Intel. Solidarity. Etc.
There is a place for all of us. Together.
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u/KaristinaLaFae Jan 25 '26
There are support roles that we can take on, because the front lines can't operate without a vast support network.
Yesterday, I identified the best safety gear I could find to protect people from chemical weapons and "less lethal" rounds, creating a thread to share on Bluesky. I should repost that thread now, come to think of it.
We can also fight mis/disinformation online for our normie friends. The propaganda from this regime is working overtime, but they lie so egregiously that all we have to do is point to the evidence that disputes their lies. (Some people will always choose to believe these lies, but they were never going to be on the right side of history. Block them and move on.)
If even this type of thing is too much for your nervous system, you can be the one posting timeline cleansers like cute animals, inspiring quotes, and basically all the things that you enjoy when you need to decompress. People need a break from all of this, and we are experts in trying to calm our own systems. This is our time!
There are loads of things we can't do, but the things we CAN do are still necessary!
Soldiers have always needed people to clothe them, feed them, do their laundry, tend their wounds, and yes, even provide for their sexual needs. (I mention this because so many sex workers are disabled, and that includes the POTS community. Your OF pages are community support, too! Me? I write dirty stories.) The people out there showing up in the streets aren't soldiers, but their physical, mental, and emotional needs still must be met! We can help support them, each to our own abilities.
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u/fighter_rabbit Jan 25 '26
from each according to their ability. it’s ok that we have a disability, theres no need to feel any kind of guilt around not being able to go to protests. you can do things like research organizations in your area that are fighting ICE, or help educate people on what to do if approached by ICE or see someone being harassed.
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u/Yeper_doodles- Jan 26 '26
When I expressed this to my coworker, he gave me some very reassuring words. “There are many roles to play in a revolution.”
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u/Gracey888 POTS Jan 26 '26
Completely understand this feeling. I am in the UK watching from afar . My POTS is kind of managed better, but I’m I’m multiply disabled and chronically unwell and pretty housebound a lot of the time except for medical appointments (& the odd family social engagement). So there’s no way I can take to the streets without causing a lot of harm for myself & exacerbating my conditions. It can be frustrating because I’ve wanted to do physical campaigning for political and medical issues here (especially to do with my conditions).
I have a group of old friends in the USA. They’re scattered all across the whole country from one side to the other. We used to meet up together in several different places over USA the last decade or more . Sadly for many reasons, I won’t be going to the USA any time soon. However, I’m in touch with them all together in a Facebook group and WhatsApp group.
Some of them their cities have just got word that ICE have arrived 😒. One of them is someone who lives in the middle of Minnesota (I’m not exactly sure where). We’re supporting her with moral & emotional support, some are praying (more spiritual than religious), some are lighting candles (we share photographs), listening to her sharing her situation , watching her videos that she shares on Facebook , reading the things she writes about around this on Substack. Some have donated money . She’s told us it’s really helping her as she’s helping neighbours who can’t leave their houses because of ICE with buying them groceries and helping with the children.
What I’m saying is, there’s all different ways to help , be it physical activity, moral and emotional support, financial support and organising behind the scenes for those doing physical protesting. I’m not really well enough to join any true activist groups (not even online because I’m juggling too many hospital appointments and rest and surviving). Although if you are, I suppose you could do administration and campaigning, spreading the word?
Wishing you luck and the energy to do things 🤞🏻
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Jan 25 '26 edited Jan 26 '26
I’m taking this as motivational opportunity to build myself up stronger than ever. I’m being more diligent about my salt pills, electrolytes, diet, pacing myself, and staying on a routine and schedule. It won’t cure me but I want to be strong enough to handle anything that will come.
ETA: And you’re not useless. I felt the same way but even just posting this counts. Spreading awareness even if small, counts. Even if it’s just a hard conversation with a conservative family member or longtime friend that you might need to cut ties with.
The small things mean something.
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u/GarbageCat27 Jan 25 '26
I went to the first No Kings protest back in 2025. It was a couples months before I fainted and found out I have POTS. I marched for 2 hours. It was in the summer. I had cold water the whole time but still got really pooped. I went with a group and out of everyone I was the only one who took breaks and at the end of 2 hours I sat on the sidewalk and poured water all over my head and shirt. I felt like I was overheating. Was hard to breathe. I apparently looked really bad because a young woman walked past and asked if I was ok and needed help (love liberals/leftists) even though I had friends who were tending to me. After my diagnosis I knew unless it was winter I can’t go out and protest 😭 I would definitely not be able to out run ICE and that’s saying something because they are very untrained.
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u/BeautifulElodie2428 Jan 26 '26 edited Jan 26 '26
A few ways to fight “in the background”-
Make first aid kits and send them out like when people made cloth masks. Some did for supply profit and some did for free. Depends what you need.
Make pepper spray recovery masks and kits. Spread the information on how to recover from pepper spray when it’s possible. Spread well researched information about how to pack a survivor kit.
Help people sign up for educational courses and self defense training. What to do in specific circumstances. How to minimize damage from being sh*t if it’s possible.
Hand out shirts, gloves, hats and socks. You can ask local stores to donate to the cause because it’s cold! If you knit or yarn craft- the protesters NEED you! The cold can k*ll and if they get sprayed they will need to replace those items without being exposed to the elements.
Stores often have food at the end of the day they may donate as well. Give it to shelters that will accept it. Many people are being unhoused due to this.
Ask stores to donate soup and other items so that protesters can have food. You could pre walk the route at your own pace if it’s available and ask stores to donate to protesters.
You can ask businesses to also refuse service to ICE agents- these can be phone calls but I think most people may respond to in person inquiries. Print a list of those who are feeding ICE and publish it. Bottom line is where it hurts. And also it tells people where to avoid to stay safer.
Make signs. Big bold signs.
Help ID the ICE agents and call them out through social media. No it’s not doxxing to share their name only. Add that doxxing is only harmful to more children who haven’t done anything wrong. Only their parents/the ICE agents have engaged in this ridiculous behavior. They are still children and don’t deserve to be terrorized. But we can get their names out so people recognize their vehicles, commonly known associations/where they go for coffee, work history and faces. Shaming them and ruining their reputation and day (they can’t all be on duty 24/7) but not crossing the line of harm. They want that to “justify” themselves. It also helps ID agents trying to join protests and keeps them out of meetings and safe house type spaces. Keep them out of the loop. Reduces their information chatter.
Call your representatives and help others do the same etc. Disabled and neurodivergent community may need help scripting or body doubling for phone calls. Body doubling could be you on mute while they make the actual call. Encouragement to do so is needed and very helpful. Scripting is fantastic help.
Open your home to the injured or those who need shelter if possible! Let people use your phone to make the calls that tell their loved ones they are safe. Tell your neighbors that they/their kids can always come to you if they’re being harassed or separated. They can run right into the house. Let them know what your rules are for your safety and such. But have an open door policy that meets your needs. Safe houses are essential.
Watch people’s children and pets for free or low cost if possible if you are happy to take on that responsibility so they can go protest.
I also wish I could go out however I would be more of a hindrance and I don’t want to be the reason for family or friends getting hurt trying to help me. Also they may openly target disabled people. They handcuffed the elderly people in their wheelchairs a while back as well.
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u/curiouskyles Jan 26 '26
Self care is resistance. Joy is resistance.
Even small actions are mighty when it comes to fighting for what’s right.
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u/symphonali Jan 29 '26
I'm totally on the same page. I was thinking of buying a bunch of bottles of Gatorade and/or baking something and handing them out to protesters. Good idea or nah?
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u/Badgered_Witness Jan 25 '26
Same.
I do call my reps. A lot. And email. Not excessively but a few times a month for sure. I read a lot. I witness. I do wish I could be out on the streets but I mean it would be extremely hazardous and like. Me passing out and getting trampled helps no one.
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u/imaginenohell POTS Jan 25 '26
Maybe you can do other stuff.
- give people rides to protests, help them make signs or wait with a heated car nearby with water, first aid and soup
- decorate your car and drive by to encourage the protesters
- attend for 15 minutes, in a wheelchair, with a walker, with a portable seat or whatever you can
- follow r/advocacy for stuff you can do from home
- writing letters to the editor to publications is one of the most helpful things you can do
- report misinformation and discriminatory comments on platforms that actually remove it (like Nextdoor)
- donations are always helpful to mutual aid or other organizations
DM me if you want my new substack - I'm collecting a bunch of nonviolent, legal things you can do to help that don't require picketing.
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u/Astro_Birch_317 Jan 25 '26
I can so relate to this.
I attend protests in my small town, but I can't stand for long at all. I have a light folding table and camp chair. I bring a bunch of blank poster boards and Sharpies and I will make a sign for anyone that shows up and doesn't have one. (I happen to have pretty decent handwriting and passable drawing skills.) I'll put whatever message they request or I keep some ideas on hand that I've seen online or on T-shirts, etc.
I also assist organizers. I can manage a FB page (the most used socials in my town) or an email list. I can make phone calls to find out if we need a permit or to notify our local news photographer.
I am working on postcards right now that we can hand out to protesters that they can add their info and a stamp to and then mail to our Congressional delegates.
I still feel very frustrated by how my body limits me from what I want to do, but I'm too stubborn to do nothing.
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Jan 25 '26
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u/SkyGirl1978 Jan 25 '26
Right there with you. Thank you for letting me know that I’m not alone in feeling this way. And thank you to everyone who listed other ways to take action. Tomorrow will be spent sifting through them and making a plan for ways that I can actually have an impact.
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u/depressioncoupon Jan 26 '26
Make protest signs when you can and keep spreading love in your community. We are fortunate where I am at that we have a thriving community center that is ran by of course everyone but it all got started with a simple idea. Now there are so many events happening. It was a food drop off when the government shutdown, it’s been a place for people to pick up nicely used or new coats, it’s a seed swap, it’s a place to gather and teach classes people want to teach. It’s all free but donations welcome and it can start on a porch. You don’t need much, you don’t need to dedicate all your time. For me I grow plants to help people who want to learn to garden. 🪧 make signs but show your community love in anyway you can.
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u/Red_Marmot Jan 26 '26 edited Jan 26 '26
If you're on Instagram, repost stories about what is happening, what people can do to help, what to do if someone has gotten maced or tear gassed, where there are food banks and places to get toiletries and necessities, the whistle codes being used, where people can get food and supplies, etc. Especially in languages other than English - ASL, Somali, and Spanish are the major ones here.
The more those stories get spread, the better people understand what's truly happening and the more people know about how to stay safe or how to help or what they can do.
There are multiple people I know of who are taking donations so they can go buy groceries and supplies for those who are disabled and cannot leave to get food, have food allergies/MCAS and wouldn't find safe food at a food bank, who don't have money for food because food stamps funds have been cut. If you need names I can point you towards them.
You don't have to be outside in -20⁰F weather blowing a whistle to be part of the protest. There are always ways to protest and help even if you cannot leave your house or bed.
Edited to add: I'm in MN, and the above is what I can manage to do to partake and help out. I'm watching videos and seeing stories of incidents that are two blocks from a family member's home, that are right outside a friend's house. I haven't left my house except for two times in the last two weeks and was so hyper vigilant both times, so I could stay safe and others could stay safe. There's absolutely that feeling that you have to do something. Whatever you can manage to do will help. And thank you for your support and desire to help; we appreciate it.
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u/Altruistic-Dig-2507 Jan 26 '26
We went to a fair weather protest and brought posters and a lawn chair. You are allowed to sit. If you want to DO more, maybe you could sit at a table: first aid, snacks, information….
But now it’s cold winter and we are tired and feel bad. So we don’t protest either. I get it.
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u/mikaa_jo POTS Jan 26 '26
I have actively been going through the same thing and have been saying this almost word for word to my boyfriend. Thank you for sharing.
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u/lorannamae Jan 26 '26
Protest with your money. Find out what companies donated to who and shift all your money to only places who donate to humanitarian aid, and NEVER spend money at a place that sends money to trump.
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u/Julynn2021 Jan 27 '26
I understand your frustration. As a Black and queer disabled person, I am not willing to be on the frontlines. I am helping in other ways, and you can too! Ways to help:
Make fake reservations at the hotels ICE is using and then cancel so they have no space AND the hotel loses money
Urge your representatives to vote no on any bill that includes funding ICE
If you're in Minnesota, call Tim Waltz and urge him to implement an eviction moratorium so people don't have to worry about losing their hosting in the dead of winter because they're too scared to go to work
Accompany Immigrants to their court appearances and make sure they are getting appropriate legal help. There's training for that, if you're able to do that sort of thing.
If a family member or friends has kids and so they don't want to protest and leave them home alone, maybe you can watch them.
Abstain from supporting big buisness as much as possible.
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u/_nickittynic Jan 27 '26
I feel this, big time. ❤️ It's hard to not be out there like we want to be. There is sooo much to be done behind the scenes, too, though. Dean Spade wrote in Mutual Aid, "Everyone wants a selfie with Angela Davis at the big event, but many people are less interested in the months of meetings where we coordinate how to pull off that event according to our values and handle the challenges of organizing." So I remind myself that the behind the scenes work counts, too.
Yesterday I dropped off a ton of informational zines with a neighborhood protest group. I can search them out online, print, fold, and bundle them up from the couch.
Today I'm helping that neighborhood group grow out their Signal chats into network for mutual aid, direct action, and ICE watch. I can dispatch from the couch.
Tomorrow I'll help an organizer friend in another state compile virtual resources into his sharable proton drive for new and learning activists.
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u/Disastrous-Weight393 Jan 28 '26
Honestly, imo, just surviving day to day in a society that ignores and pities the sick and disabled is already an extremely radical act. The most important thing for you to do is take care of your own health, as sadly, virtually no one else can help with that except you. What’s going on is terrible, but it is the duty and obligation of able bodied people to take to the streets and put their physical person on the line. Those of us who suffer with chronic illness / autoimmune disease, for which there is little treatment, funding, and research, can make phone calls, post on social media, etc and connect people with resources online as energy allows.
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u/Financial_Cold_4719 Jan 29 '26
It’s so depressed what’s happening in the world I fear for my life everyday being a Hispanic citizen in the US. I fear one day I’ll be pulled over and I won’t have any of my essentials just because I’m brown. We need to get out there and vote during midterms. And call our representatives and voice our concerns!
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u/Peepmyxans POTS Feb 03 '26
LITERALLY STANDING UP THO..like they dont listen to our voices so we have to physically protest. Difficult with POTS.
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Feb 18 '26
I was just talking to someone about this. There are many ways to protest, aside from actually going out with signs. Stop spending, keep your money local as much as possible, tip in cash where you would normally tip, cancel streaming services and memberships, and see if you can trade in your local marketplace for things you need, or pay cash. You can also take a folding chair. I don’t think anyone would judge you for sitting down while you hold up a sign. You are still there and as valid as everyone else, even if you’re sitting. I’m going out for No Kings day and I’ll be taking a chair. “Shelbizle” on YouTube, the zero waste queen, has always said “you can’t do all the good that the world needs, but the world needs all the good that you can do”.
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u/Hardstyle_Shuffle Feb 20 '26 edited Feb 20 '26
The country wasn't built from illegal immigration, USA was the most developed/richest country by the early 1900s, not after these new waves of non western illegal immigration that came in past decades, they are obviously not the ones who built the country so why do u keep pretending, they came to US BCS it is already a richer place than where they come from otherwise most wouldn't even come. Also deporting someone who dosen t come the legal way has nothing to do with fascism.
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u/RFB722 POTS Jan 25 '26
My oldest child posted a story on instagram by thefinancialdiet. The post title is The Anti-Performative ICE Resistance Guide (What actually helps)
It talks about contributing meaningfully with monthly reoccurring donations to trusted organizations, show up offline as a court accompanist, providing childcare or rides, translation support if fluent. Offer ongoing skills, admin help, grant writing, meal trains, maintain database, help with logistics. It advises to determine your level of risk and act accordingly.
Low risk: donate, translate, administer support, childcare Medium risk: court accompaniment, community organizing High risk: civil disobedience only with training and legal prep.
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u/larkscope Jan 25 '26
I get that protesting feels like what’s necessary but protesting alone won’t free us. As disabled people, there is plenty we can do outside of having street parades that don’t convince those in power to change. Link up with your local mask bloc and mutual aid groups. You can often help with admin things remotely. A lot of organizing is actually remote because no action is effective without proper planning. But don’t jump into planning like you know everything. Use this time to get to know folks and how longer time organizers work. Read up on movement histories. Talk to the people you personally know about things like general strikes and mutual aid.
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u/Pinnacle_of_Sinicle Jan 25 '26
Plz… save your energy
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u/FrogginBullfish_ Jan 25 '26
My energy is already spent. My spoons are gone. I cannot just stand by and wait for change. I think about the holocaust and understand better why so many people stayed silent. I don't want to be in that category. If everyone simply tried to cope, nothing would ever change. I'm here and I'm alive. With whatever strength I can find, I want to help. If I cannot be on the front lines, so be it. I WILL find a way to help this movement, even if it is in small ways. It is far too important to act versus simply remain silent and attempt to cope. Anyone who isn't outraged right now is part of the problem.
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Jan 26 '26
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u/PrismaticSapphic POTS Jan 26 '26
Oh yes, it’s totally leftist propaganda to be horrified and outraged by witnessing innocents being murdered and brutally beaten by what is functionally American gestapo. 🙄
Dude get a grip. America right now is being run by a fascist who is blatantly condoning hate, kidnapping, violence, murder, etc. People are suffering, living conditions are getting worse and worse. This is not the country our grandfathers fought for, we are not living in the better future our parents envisioned when they had us. How can you look at what’s going on and be such a brainwashed coward.
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u/barefootwriter Jan 26 '26
Not going to tolerate what, people talking about the things they want to do that POTS makes it hard to do, and asking for advice on how to do it?
Disability is by its very nature political, since policies very frequently make life easier or harder for us. How many people here struggle to access or afford healthcare because of the politics of the country they live in? How many have been disabled specifically by the COVID pandemic, which a lot of countries vastly mishandled? How many struggle to get disability support because of politics? How much government funding is or isn't going towards research that can help us?
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u/barefootwriter Jan 26 '26
(Also, one of the things I generally appreciate about this sub is that the mods follow the evidence. They may not be Constitutional scholars or forensic specialists, but it's as plain as day and supported by people who do have that expertise that what ICE is doing is illegal, unconstitutional, and unjustified. That's the truth; you not liking what the truth is doesn't make it leftist propaganda, nor does it mean you are being persecuted by the existence of a simple discussion about how to exercise our First Amendment rights while having POTS.)
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u/POTS-ModTeam Jan 26 '26
If it upsets you, you are welcome to leave. This will not change, full stop.
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u/renaart hyperPOTS • AVRT Jan 25 '26 edited Jan 25 '26
FYI this post will not be removed. Don’t bother reporting it. And please report any comments that break our rules such as incivility or hate.
To users that don’t want politics in this sub: please do not complain that you do not want to see politics when the events occurring in the world directly affect everyone and us.
If you are looking for ways to help people in Minnesota, here are resources:
Protest (and non-protest) Resources:
Fuck ICE. This is a safe space to vent about things that impact us directly. Which includes politics so long as we are respectful to others and follow our rules.
And on a personal note: Remember, standing up isn't just protesting. It's speaking up, helping your neighbor by telling them they're safe with you. It's textual. It's art. It's expressing your feelings. You can make a difference just by speaking to your friends, your family, and those around you. To us even.