For info on making a contribution that keeps this work growing, click HERE.

July 4, 2025

Dear Backbone Friend,

It is not always clear what a particular moment asks from us. Backbone was committed to lead the Seattle No Kings march with our giant We the People on June 14th. But, when I saw the national press focused on the burning cars in Los Angeles, I knew immediately what Backbone had to do. I dropped everything, packed up our giant We the People and flew to LA. I had already asked Steffon Moody – the original artist – to create two new We The People props. With an all-hands-on-deck moment, staff and volunteers hustled to finish. It all came together beautifully.

Never before has our imagery so captured the Zeitgeist of the moment. We the People became the defining image of choice for the mainstream media representing the mobilization of millions of people committed to protecting our democracy.  

It is clear we are in a war against thugs, oligarchs and a kleptocratic madman. Together, they are determined to use fear and hate to undermine empathy itself. The strategy is to divide us, and to dismantle our democracy and the promise and pledge of our country. 

We the People, defending our constitution by remaining true to our oaths for liberty and justice for all, is our only hope. 

Backbone is at the forefront of the fight to save our democracy by distributing tools and sharing skills to muster and embolden a resistance. We are only able to do this incredibly urgent and important work because of people like you. From Inauguration Day to today, my incredible staff has ceaselessly harnessed our tools, experience, and volunteers to help regular people find their voice and their courage to protect people, places, and a vision for the future that remains sacred to us all.

Last winter, I promised you that Backbone would not merely play defense. I promised that we’d go on the offense to draw those who are desperate for change away from the populism that appeals to the worst in them and offers an alternative vision that appeals to the best in all of us. We remain on track.

Solutionary Rail, our vision for the future of transportation that is just, resilient, and sustainable is rolling forward in Washington State and nationally. 

• We passed our first law for higher passenger rail performance standards in Washington. 
• Our regional vision for a rail alternative to Snake River barges is being incorporated into models for the future of wheat transportation. 
• Nationally, we are working with members of Congress on The Transportation Reauthorization Bill. 
• And, our ambitious Reconnect America podcast is gaining momentum and audience, providing popular education for repurposing this critical infrastructure for the public good instead of corporate greed.

I know that from your busy life, it is hard – if not impossible – to fully grasp the scope of Backbone Campaign’s impact. I myself am awed and proud to the point of tears of our incredible staff and the volunteers that make up Team Backbone. And, I am deeply grateful because I know that without your generosity, all this would be impossible. 

We know a world without Backbone Campaign has less hope, less beauty, and less vision. It isn’t good. That’s why I am writing to you to request that you dig deeper than you have in the past. I’m expanding our team because the world needs more of what we have to give, and we can’t do this without you. 

Backbone is a reflection of your courage and generosity. When you give more, it means that we can give more to the movement and the future we are building together.

With gratitude, love, and partnership,

Bill Moyer, Backbone Campaign Executive Director

Please make your tax-deductible gift at this link.

To see more pictures of our work over the last few months, click HERE.