Dear ,

In a week dominated by troubling budget negotiations at the federal level, we're witnessing developments that could profoundly impact our communities across Virginia. Three congressional committees—Ways and Means, Energy and Commerce, and Agriculture—are currently deliberating recommendations that may significantly reduce funding for Medicaid and SNAP benefits, essential programs providing healthcare and food security for vulnerable children and families throughout the Commonwealth.

Simultaneously, proposals for increased funding to expand deportation efforts and family separation policies threaten our immigrant neighbors. Adding to these concerns, some members of Congress plan to introduce an amendment that would grant the Treasury Secretary authority to designate any nonprofit as a "terrorist-supporting organization" without requiring justification—potentially stripping organizations of their tax-exempt status without due process.

Amid this constant stream of challenging news, many of us struggle to remain centered. Our attention shifts rapidly from one urgent issue to the next, making it difficult to focus our energies effectively. While advocacy remains essential—making phone calls, sending emails, and visiting legislators are vital components of creating change—we want to remind our interfaith community of another powerful form of resistance: joy.

Share your moments by posting a picture of yourself doing something that brings you joy and tagging us on social media using the hashtag #joyisresistance.

As we continue advocating for justice and compassion across faith traditions, let us remember that sustaining our spirits through moments of joy strengthens our capacity for the important work ahead. By nurturing our well-being, we build resilience for the ongoing journey toward a more just society for all Virginians.

In solidarity,
Keisha

Rev. Dr. LaKeisha Cook
Executive Director

On May 12, VICPP hosted a virtual event for #DayWithoutChildCare, a national day of action to honor early educators and highlight why child care is essential for Virginia families. Parents, providers, advocates, and early educators gathered on Zoom to share stories and vision.

Ramon Zepeda Ramos, VICPP’s Economic Justice Organizer, led the conversation, stressing the need for affordable, and quality child care. Executive Director Rev. Dr. LaKeisha Cook offered an Interfaith Litany for Early Child Care Educators, inviting congregations to use it in their communities.

The event also lifted up the role faith-based child care centers can play by becoming Child Care Subsidy Vendors. Of 880 religious-exempt centers in Virginia, only 150 are in the program. Faith communities have a real opportunity to help families access care they otherwise can’t afford.

The Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy advocates economic, racial, and social justice in Virginia’s policies and practices
through education, prayer, and action.