The goal of this page is to help students understand the rights they already have and how to use them. This page will break down key rights in everyday settings like schools, protests, voting booths, police encounters, and more.

• You have the right to free speech in school, including protest, unless it causes major disruption.

• You can form or join a GSA or student group, even if the school disagrees with your cause. 

• You have the right to refuse a search of your personal items without cause (unless there's suspicion). 

• Schools can’t discriminate based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.

Click the image to download the Student Rights Cheat Sheet

Featured Orgs:

Students’ Rights | American Civil Liberties Union 

Homepage | GLSEN 

• You have the right to peacefully protest in public places (sidewalks, parks, etc.). 

• Police can’t stop you from filming them or force you to delete footage. 

• You may be required to get a permit for large gatherings or marches.

IF YOU'RE STOPPED OR ARRESTED:

• You can stay silent and ask for a lawyer. 

• Do not lie or present fake documents.

Click the image to download the Youth Protest Safety Guide

Click HERE for a checklist of what to bring to a protest

• You have the right to minimum wage, breaks, and a safe workplace—even as a teen. 

• You can’t be forced to work past legal hours (varies by state and age). 

• Harassment, discrimination, or wage theft are illegal, even in part-time jobs.

Click the image to download Know Your Rights at Work (teens)

Resources: YouthRules | U.S. Department of Labor 

• You can remain silent and ask if you're free to leave. 

• You don’t have to consent to a search unless they have a warrant or probable cause.

•  If you're under 18, you can request a guardian or lawyer to be present during questioning.

Click the image to download the What To Say and Do If You're Stopped Card

Featured Orgs:

KYR | American Civil Liberties Union 

• You have the right to use your name/pronouns and wear clothing that expresses your identity (unless the school enforces a gender-neutral dress code).

•  Schools can’t ban LGBTQ+ topics from clubs, books, or classes if they allow others. 

• You’re protected from harassment and discrimination under Title IX (pending legal battles).

Click the image to download the LGBTQIA2S+ Rights in Schools one-pager

Connect:

Know Your Rights | Lambda Legal Legacy 

Contact Us | American Civil Liberties Union 

Homepage | GLSEN 

• You can vote at 18, and in some states, you can pre-register at 16 or 17. 

• You have the right to vote without intimidation and to get help if you need language or disability support. 

• If your name isn’t on the list at your polling place, you can ask for a provisional ballot.

Click the image to download the First Time Voter Checklist

See Voting 101 for more information

• Stay calm and write down everything you remember. 

• Ask for a witness or contact a trusted adult. 

• File a complaint or contact legal organizations like the ACLU, NAACP, or National Center for Youth Law. 

• Speak out—your story might help others.