Backbone Campaign is a U.S. nonviolent movement-building organization that combines creative strategies with artful activism to amplify the voices of “We the People” and shift power back to communities. It was started by artists and organizers who wanted imagery, tactics, and expressive public actions to make resistance visible and meaningful. Backbone’s work supports equity, justice, and democratic participation through highly visual and participatory forms of protest and community building.
The group’s tactics include freeway overpass bannering, light projections, giant puppets, creative props, and other visually striking actions that draw media attention and public participation. Because these tactics are nonviolent and symbolic, Backbone requires participants to agree to a Nonviolence Pledge, ensuring that all involvement is principled and safe for supporters, the public, and counter-protestors.
Backbone also provides training, resources, and support for activists across the United States. This includes DIY tactics, imagery libraries, and action support, so that local groups can adapt Backbone’s creative methods in their own contexts. The group’s Activist Toolkit offers practical guidance for planning actions, organizing meetings, and knowing your rights.
In addition, Backbone has experimented with innovative funding models, such as the Community Supported Organizers (CSO) program, which helps autonomous change agents receive recurring support while staying flexible and responsive to local needs.
Extra Links & How to Engage
Supporters can donate to Backbone Campaign through multiple options on the website, including one-time gifts, monthly giving, and specialized funds like the Lumbar Club. These contributions help underwrite training, materials, and national action support. You can volunteer or join a Solidarity Brigade to participate directly in creative protests and visibility campaigns. The Activist Toolkit is available for download and can be used to plan effective actions and meetings. Backbone also features a calendar of events, an imagery library for visual resources, and options to connect with community supported organizers.
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Main Site & Campaign Hub — embedded via BackboneCampaign.org
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Donate & Support Options — embedded via Support/Donate pages
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Activist Toolkit & Resources — embedded via Toolkit page
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Volunteer/Brigade Signups — embedded via Get Involved pages
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Community Supported Organizer Profiles — embedded via CSO section