Dear ,

For my personal faith tradition, this is the season of Advent which is a time of preparation and hope. The second week of Advent began on December 7th, marked by the lighting of the second purple candle. This candle represents peace, celebrating the birth of Jesus, whom Christian scripture calls the "Prince of Peace," and the peace His presence brings. Another theme often woven into this second week is love. 

Yet this weekend, the sacred themes of peace and love stood in heartbreaking contrast to the violence that occurred in our own community. Vandals attacked the Masjid Ash-Shura in Norfolk, painting black crosses across the exterior of the mosque, an act of hatred that wounds us all. 

However, even in the face of such darkness, light has emerged. Community members are rallying with remarkable solidarity with plans to assist in cleaning the mosque and speaking out against Islamophobia and hate at Tuesday night's city council meeting. This response embodies the very love and peace this season calls us to practice not just in word, but in action. 

We stand together with the Muslim community in Norfolk. As we continue through this season of Advent, I encourage each of us to actively seek opportunities to spread love and peace. Whether through acts of service, words of solidarity, or simply showing up for our neighbors, let us transform this season's sacred themes into lived reality. 

In Peace and Love, 

Keisha  

Rev. Dr. LaKeisha Cook 
Executive Director 

Caring for the sick and vulnerable among us is part of our mission as people of faith and goodwill. Unfortunately, too many Virginians cannot take a sick day without losing income or their job. In Virginia, 41 percent of private sector workers (1.2 million workers) have no paid sick days (or PTO).  

Take action today! Please add your name to VICPP’S Paid Sick Days Sign-on Letter urging all Virginia legislators to make Paid Sick Days a reality for 1.2 million Virginians in 2026. 

Get ready to be an effective advocate! Join us for three powerful virtual training sessions in December. All sessions begin at 6:00 pm. These sessions are designed to empower you with the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective voice for justice. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or taking your first steps, there's something valuable for everyone.

Advocacy 101: December 18
New to advocacy? This beginner-friendly session will equip you with essential tools to track legislation and confidently navigate the General Assembly session. 

Join us at Centenary United Methodist Church (411 E Grace St, Richmond, VA) for our annual Day for All People! This full-day advocacy event brings together communities of faith and justice from across Virginia to meet with legislators and speak out on key issues like environmental justice, affordable housing, health care, and higher education in prison.

Interested in sponsoring the event as an individual or organization? Email our Development Manager, Tania, to learn more and request a sponsorship packet. Don’t miss this inspiring opportunity to make your voice heard!

Join us for a powerful day of advocacy, learning, and action! This event is designed to equip students with the tools to make real change in Virginia.

We are deeply grateful to our incredible sponsors for making Day for All People possible. Your support helps us bring communities together, amplify voices, and create meaningful change.

Virtual Learning Sessions

We recently hosted two insightful virtual learning sessions: General Assembly Preview and Tax Policy 101. These discussions offered valuable updates and practical knowledge to help you stay informed and prepared for the upcoming legislative season. If you missed them, don’t worry we’ve got you covered! The recordings are attached so you can catch up anytime.

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