What is a Bridge Brigade?
A Bridge Brigade is an action where banners or signs with very large letters are shown at a highway overpass “bridge”. Indivisible in Melrose, Wakefield and Beyond have a number of pro-democracy, pro-civil rights banners that say “RESIST”, “ICE OUT”, “NO KINGS”, “TIME TO STAND UP FOR DEMOCRACY” and it is possible to mix and match letters to make new messages.
Why is it important?
It is an excellent way to get out a message as each hour thousands of cars and trucks see the signs! We’ve counted up to 40,000 vehicles over a 3 hour stretch! Effort is focused on the side that has the most vehicles, but if there are enough volunteers it is possible to put banners in both directions.
Where does the idea come from?
The Visibility Brigade group started in 2020 in Paramus, NJ. There is now a long list of locations with opportunities for “Rush Hour Resistance”.
Is it legal?
Yes, it is considered first amendment speech. We make space for pedestrians if they come by to walk across the bridge. We are very careful not to drop anything onto the roadway. Banners are not attached to the bridge but the poles rest on a ledge behind the fencing. We do attach American flags. We do not leave any materials unattended.
Is it fun?
Yes! Overall responses are positive, with vehicles honking or flashing their lights. People wave. Sometimes there are negative gestures, which we ignore.
How long do I stay?
Stay as little or as long as you like! Since it can be tiring to wave few people stay longer than an hour.
Which bridges are being used?
Currently every Tuesday from 2-5pm at Hopkins St Wakefield I-95 overpass and every Saturday from 12-2pm at Marble St Stoneham I-93 overpass
Do I need to sign up?
It would be nice, but not necessary. Once you find a bridge location and time that works for you perhaps it can become a regular part of your schedule.
How do I drive there?
For navigational purposes these addresses can be used: For the I-93 overpass: 4 Hill St Stoneham; for the I-95 overpass: 93 Hopkins St Wakefield.
Where do I park?
We are not allowed to park on the bridge itself. Side streets near the overpasses have plenty of room. For the Marble St Stoneham / Forest St Winchester I-93 overpass, Hill St in Stoneham or Eugene Dr or Keenan Dr in Winchester are options.
Do I need to stand the entire time?
No, it is possible to see over the railing even when sitting down in a chair, or sitting on a scooter. Waving from that position is still effective.
What should I bring?
It can be breezy on the bridge so dress in layers. If there is a light rain bring an umbrella (heavy rain will cancel). Don’t bring your own sign as it will be too small to see from the road. We’ll have bright yellow lightweight vests for you to wear for visibility and bright yellow or orange neon pool noodles to wave.
How long have the Bridge Brigades been happening?
The Marble St Stoneham I-93 Bridge Brigade has been happening almost continuously since August 2025. The Hopkins St I-95 Wakefield Bridge Brigade has been happening since fall 2025.
Why were these locations chosen?
These locations do not have on or off ramps making it safer for volunteers to access the overpasses.
Can I see the locations on a map?
Photos and Videos of past actions:
