Dear ,
As we move through this time known as Holy Week in the Christian tradition, I am reminded of the Selaginella Lepidophylla, a plant that grows in Mexico and parts of the U.S. that can survive multiple YEARS without water in the middle of the desert. Even when it’s dry and brown and may look dead, once it receives water, this plant can immediately respond and come back to life. Also known as the resurrection plant, it shows us that when it feels like all hope is lost, change is still possible.
There are moments and seasons in justice work that feel hopeless and difficult. But even in the darkest of moments, we must remember that resurrection and change are still possible. In dry moments, we must continue to hold on and fight. This moment is a call for us to look inward and be reminded of who we are and what we are made of. As people of faith and goodwill, our determination and fight become a source of inspiration for others.
During this month, designated as Second Chance Month, Virginia focuses on opportunities for government and community-based service providers to build meaningful second chances for people returning from incarceration. People of faith and goodwill continue to provide water through our advocacy work to the sometimes-dry reentry opportunities for returning citizens.
During this week, designated as Black Maternal Health Week, we continue to fight for health equity for Black mothers and their babies. A recent VA Dept. of Health report reveals dismal statistics that show Black women continue to experience more than double the rate of pregnancy-associated deaths when compared to their White counterparts. And these statistics have worsened over the past few years.
The Virginia Interfaith Center continues to work diligently to support these and other justice and equity issues. Even when it seems impossible, always remember — change and resurrection are still possible. Let’s continue to hold on and fight!
In solidarity,
Keisha
Rev. Dr. LaKeisha Cook
Executive Director | 
