PJLC Leads Statewide Training on Legal Self-Defense

The Peace and Justice Law Center (PJLC) led a first-of-its-kind statewide training on how gang allegations have been used over time to silence and weaken movements led by Black, Brown, and system-impacted people. Nearly 100 participants from nearly a dozen organizations across California took part in the two-part webinar, held in partnership with the Decriminalizing Neighborhoods Network (DNN) and the California Alliance for Youth and Community Justice (CAYCJ).

The first session focused on history and politics. Presenters showed how labeling people as “gang members” has long been used to discredit community leaders, divide movements, and justify police and state violence. Participants looked at examples ranging from early racist laws and the criminalization of Chicano youth during the Zoot Suit era, to modern gang databases and conspiracy charges. The training explained how these accusations often rely on stereotypes, who someone knows, or how they look, rather than real evidence of a crime.

Viewing gang allegations through a counterinsurgency lens helped explain why certain leaders are targeted. People who have lived through policing, incarceration, or poverty are often the strongest organizers in their communities. That also makes them more likely to be attacked. By treating culture, identity, and relationships as criminal, the state can weaken movements without having to address the real issues those movements are raising.

The second session shifted to practical legal self-defense. Unlike typical “know your rights” trainings, the focus was not on what people are technically allowed to do in the moment, but on how to protect themselves ahead of time. PJLC and partner presenters walked through common legal risks facing violence interrupters and organizers, including constant police contact, being accused of conspiracy, immigration consequences, and being held responsible for items they do not actually own.

The training ended with a focus on protecting organizations, not just individuals. Presenters explained four basic tools groups need to survive attacks: access to lawyers, a clear communications plan, a bail or rapid response fund, and strong office and digital security. While these kinds of attacks have happened for years, participants discussed how the election of Donald Trump has made the risks feel more immediate and more dangerous.

As a next step, PJLC is working with DNN and CAYCJ to create shared response tools, including template letters for what to do if a community leader is arrested. PJLC will decide whether to offer future trainings based on how conditions continue to change.