If you’ve driven around Richmond lately and thought, “Huh, that’s a dramatic billboard,”—you’re not imagining it. A new wave of eye-popping signage has landed across the city, and it’s not promoting a new BBQ joint or summer festival. These billboards are part of a nationwide campaign protesting national park budget cuts, and they’re turning heads for all the right reasons. Backed by the progressive news platform More Perfect Union, this multi-city movement isn’t just making noise—it’s making a point.

In this guide, we break down what the billboards are all about, why Richmond was specifically targeted, and what this means for public lands like Shenandoah National Park, just a couple hours from our city.

Why Are There Protest Billboards All Over Richmond Right Now?

Let’s cut to the chase: these billboards are not random. They’re part of a national effort to push back against budget cuts to the National Park Service and other public institutions. In Richmond alone, seven billboards have popped up on major roadways, each with messages criticizing the Trump administration’s proposed cuts and warning about the dangers of privatizing essential public services.

Launched by More Perfect Union, a pro-labor media outlet with a reputation for bold messaging, this campaign aims to do more than just spark debate—it’s designed to mobilize public opinion.

Shenandoah National Park: Why It Matters

If you’ve ever hiked Old Rag, driven the Skyline Drive, or just stood silently in awe as Shenandoah’s fog hugged the Blue Ridge Mountains, you know this park isn’t just a weekend getaway—it’s a piece of our identity. And yes, it’s very much at risk.

Shenandoah National Park has already felt the sting of federal downsizing. With fewer employees, trail maintenance has slowed, services have been reduced, and environmental protections are under pressure. This isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a slippery slope toward neglect.

And here’s where Richmond comes in: as one of the closest urban hubs to the park, our community has skin in the game. That’s why we’re seeing more billboards here than most other cities.

What Do the Billboards Say?

These aren’t your typical, boring billboards. They’re bold, black-and-white, and unapologetically political. Some feature messages like:

• “Don’t Let Trump Gut Our Parks”
• “$2.1 Billion in Cuts. Guess Who Pays?”
• “Privatizing Public Lands is a Scam”

Strategically placed across high-traffic roads, they’re meant to grab attention, stir emotion, and spark conversations—preferably not while you’re stuck in I-64 traffic, but hey, we’ll take awareness wherever we can get it.

The Bigger Picture: Why This Protest Matters

At its core, this campaign is about protecting the public’s access to public land. It’s a protest against short-term cuts that risk long-term damage to the systems that maintain national parks, historic sites, and community services.

Here’s what’s at stake:

• Layoffs of park rangers and maintenance crews
• Deferred trail and road repairs
• Reduced educational programs for schools and visitors
• Potential privatization of park facilities (yes, even bathrooms)

This isn’t a partisan issue—it’s a public one. Once we lose access to these spaces or let them crumble, it’s a tough climb back.

Richmond’s Role in the National Conversation

Why Richmond? Simple: we’re vocal, we’re politically engaged, and we’re just close enough to both Shenandoah and D.C. to make a serious impact.

Richmonders care about the environment, history, and public spaces (have you seen how packed Maymont gets on a sunny weekend?). We also have a strong activist streak. More Perfect Union knows that if they want people to care—and do something—Richmond is a city that shows up.

How to Learn More or Get Involved

If you’re moved by the message or just curious, here’s what you can do:

• Visit the Virginia DWR site to learn more about public land management.
• Follow More Perfect Union to see more of the campaign and access educational content.
• Write to your local reps and ask where they stand on national park funding.
• Plan a visit to Shenandoah and see for yourself what’s worth fighting for.

Visiting Richmond for the First Time?

Whether you’re driving through for the campaign or visiting the city for something else, make it worthwhile by staying at the Best Western Plus Richmond Airport Hotel. Just 15 minutes from downtown, we offer free parking, cozy rooms, and a hearty breakfast to fuel your adventures. Whether you’re headed to a national park or just need a good night’s sleep before your next billboard tour—we’ve got you covered.

Closing Words

The Richmond billboard protest is a visual reminder that our parks, public lands, and shared spaces matter. Budget cuts may seem like political chess pieces, but their consequences play out on our trails, in our communities, and across our future.

So next time you spot one of those bold black-and-white billboards while cruising through the city, don’t just honk in agreement. Share it, talk about it, and stay informed—because preserving public space is everyone’s responsibility.

FAQ

Who is behind the Richmond national park protest billboards?
The billboards are part of a national campaign led by More Perfect Union, a pro-labor news outlet and advocacy group.

What parks are affected by these budget cuts?
Shenandoah National Park is a major focus in Virginia, but cuts affect parks and public lands nationwide.

Where can I learn more about the campaign?
Visit More Perfect Union’s website for campaign details, videos, and actions you can take.

Are these billboards only in Richmond?
Nope! Richmond is just one of over 40 cities participating in this national campaign, but it’s one of the most visible hotspots due to our proximity to Shenandoah.

Where should I stay in Richmond if I’m visiting for this or other events?
Stay at the Best Western Plus Richmond Airport Hotel—convenient, comfortable, and close to all the city’s best attractions.