Dear ,

On December 14, 2012, I was out of town finishing the last session of my doctoral program when I heard the news of the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School. As I listened to the reporter share the horrific details of small children losing their lives, my heart first grieved for the families. Then my thoughts turned to my own daughter, who was only four years old at the time similar in age to some of the victims that day. 

That Sunday during worship, we called all the children and parents to the front of the church for prayer. I held back tears as I stood with my daughter wearing her tiny backpack and prayed for comfort and peace for the grieving families, and for courage for those in power to make the necessary changes to keep our children safe. 

Thirteen years after Sandy Hook, we watched this past weekend as gun violence tore through multiple communities once again. The shooting at Brown University wounded nine and ended the lives of two students: Ella Cook and Virginia native Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov. The shooting at Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah celebration resulted in the deaths of 15 people ranging in age from 10 to 87. Our hearts collectively grieve with the Jewish community as we witness yet another example of violence fueled by unchecked antisemitic rhetoric. 

As a mother, I am exhausted. As an advocate, I am angered. It is long past time for comprehensive gun reform. As a person of faith, I invite you to join me in committing to both pray and fight for change. During the upcoming legislative session, we stand with our partners at Moms Demand Action and other organizations and advocates leading the effort to advance policies that will help keep our communities safe. 

In Solidarity, 

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.

TOMORROW 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.

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.

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