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Overpass Messages and Rush-Hour Resistance
One of the growing and effective actions of Resistance in this second Trump Administration has been the phenomenon of overpass messaging -- often displayed on a bridge over an interstate or heavily-used highway. In Maryland, there are a dozen such efforts, and the messages of Resistance can be very effective as the images above attest.
For example, between Washington DC and Baltimore, at overpasses along I-95 (e.g., at Gorman Road or Vollmerhausen Road) these messages can easily reach 24,000 vehicles/drivers in over two hours, when the actions include messages facing both northbound and southbound traffic.
Promoters and sponsors might be local Indivisible chapters, Democratic Clubs, Third Act groups, the Baltimore Rapid Response Network and others, but the features mostly include the following:
Regularly changing large-letter signs (with letters at least two-feet high.)
Flags -- mainly U.S. but also others when appropriate.
Only including smaller signs with letters at least 9-inches in height.
Here are some notes on effectiveness:
- Avoid using overpasses near cloverleaf exits; they can be dangerous because angry drivers and bad actors can more easily find and approach your overpass protest.
- Find appropriate overpasses, ideally with flat chain-link fences for set-up and a safe sidewalk or wide shoulder where your protest crew can stand next to the messaging.
- Some overpass protest groups protest on a predictable schedule (e.g., Friday afternoons) so drivers learn to expect you and participate with you (honking). Other groups use a more random schedule to limit potential interactions with counter-protestors.
- Don’t do this in bad weather (precipitation or high winds); it’s ineffective, and potentially damaging to your signs.
- Letters need to be LARGE; messages need to be SHORT. People moving in vehicles quickly below you have only a few seconds of reading time.
- Black “Readi-Board” foam boards (20” x 30”), sometimes for under $1.25 each at Dollar Stores, are great.
- Individually cut 24” high white letters fit nicely on these black foam boards. These large letters allow for message-changing and timeliness!
- Use individual large clips or bungees to hold the letters/words together and on your fence.
- Special messaging on holidays and anniversaries can also increase effectiveness.
- Some states have special regulations for overpasses. Research your state and local regulations and ordinances to ensure your protest operates within the law.
- Cleaning up after yourselves is essential! A good rule of thumb is to leave the overpass better than you found it.
For the very best guidance, networking, possible theme coordination, and standards, check out The Visibility Brigade .
-- Paul Baicich, an active member and local leader in the Machinists Union (IAMAW) for 15 years, helps to organize the Gorman Road overpass action in Laurel, Maryland. He put this piece together with help from other dedicated and regular participants in these Maryland overpass actions.
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