He was wearing a two-piece brown suit and smiled warmly the moment he saw us. Rather than rushing past, he took the time to learn each of our names and asked thoughtful questions about our majors and our lives. His genuine attentiveness and radiant presence made an immediate impression on me. Twenty years later, when I was serving as a board member for VICPP, I was thrilled when the decision was made to bring him onto our staff. That early encounter had stayed with me, and I knew he would bring that same warmth and dedication to the organization.
King Salim Khalfani became an integral and beloved member of the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy, where he served as Criminal Justice Organizer with unwavering dedication. He used his voice and influence to champion transformative change, fighting tirelessly to restrict the use of solitary confinement and limit the use of attack dogs in Virginia's prisons. His work extended far beyond the walls of the criminal justice system. He also worked to equip faith communities across the Commonwealth with the resources and tools they needed to strengthen civic engagement and mobilize voters. The House of Delegates adjourned in honor of King Salim on Tuesday afternoon. Click here to watch Delegate Hayes’ powerful tribute.
King made a profound impact on our entire staff. He was often one of the first to arrive at the office each morning, and his deep commitment to justice and community shaped every aspect of our work. King Salim leaves behind a powerful legacy of justice, dignity, and power-building that will continue to inspire all who knew him and all who benefit from the more just Virginia he helped create. Our hearts are heavy with grief, and we hold his family, friends, and all who loved him in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
In solidarity,
Keisha
Rev. Dr. LaKeisha Cook
Executive Director | 
