The Mission of Brigades
Brigades is a Virginia grassroots network inspired by the Jim Webb campaign. Our mission is to be a catalyst for government that is: of, by, and for all the people; open, accountable, responsive, respectful, and fair; and committed to finding forward-looking solutions to real problems. We accomplish our mission by supporting Democratic and other candidates of courage and integrity, and by influencing public policy.

Our History
Jim Webb's successful 2006 campaign for the U.S. Senate inspired a unique, devoted group of volunteers known as "The Webb Brigades." Usually, volunteers who have formed a common bond during a political campaign drift apart once that campaign ends. But the Webb volunteers decided to stay together because there remained much work to be done in turning Virginia into a more Democratic state -- and because frankly, we enjoy each other's company! So we became the Brigades, no longer affiliated with Webb or any other candidate, or even in any official capacity with the Democratic party, but united in our mission to raise the quality of government in the state of Virginia.

How does Brigades operate?
Brigades is a casual network of Virginia Democratic-leaning volunteers, centered in Northern Virginia. We bring together hundreds of individuals who are working on many different local, state or national campaigns, involved in countless different progressive organizations and blogs, active in the Democratic party at some level, or simply looking for a launching pad to jump-start their activism. Brigades is not a formal organization with money or paid staff or much structure. But like the Internet itself, our power lies in bringing people with common interests together to share information, inspiration and experiences, and to work together to bring about positive change in Virginia through grassroots activism.

We hold meetings and social events monthly, and in the meantime, communicate via our Google Group. We target selected campaigns, and work to mobilize our members to contribute their efforts where they can make the biggest difference in turning Virginia into a more Democratic state.

Stay Informed!
Join the Brigades Announce group at Google Groups. Brigades Announce is the administrative channel (non discussion) for The Brigades. Anyone can send messages to this list, but they are moderated and must pertain either to a Brigades meeting or activity or to a campaign activity being attended by Brigades members.

Discuss!
Join the Brigades group at Google Groups. This is a list for discussion and debate amongst Brigades members.