Dear ,

This week marks five years since Virginia abolished the death penalty—a milestone that still feels remarkable to reflect on. Five years ago, we stood together at a history-making moment when Virginia became the first state in the South to end capital punishment, and that moment permanently deepened my belief in the life-changing power of policy. 

Throughout that entire legislative session, as we fought for the bill, I kept a Post-it note on my computer with two names written on it: Anthony Juniper and Thomas Porter. Those names were my anchor and a daily reminder of exactly who we were fighting for and what was truly at stake. Their lives were spared when the bill passed. That kind of focus drives our work, and the results are undeniable. Lives are transformed because of the tireless dedication of our legislators, advocates, and people of faith and goodwill who refuse to stop pushing for justice. 

That same spirit carries us forward today. As we await Governor Spanberger's action on our priority bills from this General Assembly session, I find myself thinking about the real people behind each piece of legislation. I think about the parent who can finally stay home with a sick child without the fear of losing a paycheck. I think about the pregnant person who will walk into a doctor's office carrying just a little less anxiety. I think about the child who can visit the school nurse without hesitation when they aren't feeling well. I think about the person in prison whose path to a college education will become a little less complicated. And I think about the congregation that can finally break ground on affordable homes for the neighbors they've long hoped to serve.  

This work matters, and so do the people who make it possible. 

Please join us on Thursday, 6:30 p.m., for a virtual General Assembly Wrap-Up to hear more about the incredible work our team accomplished this legislative session. Register below to receive a link.

We look forward to seeing you there.

In Solidarity,

Keisha

Rev. Dr. LaKeisha Cook 
Executive Director  

Virginians can vote now through April 18 on a redistricting amendment that would give the state legislature the power to redraw Virginia's 11 congressional districts. The last day to vote is April 21.

The ballot will read:

Should the Constitution of Virginia be amended to allow the General Assembly to temporarily adopt new congressional districts to restore fairness in the upcoming elections, while ensuring Virginia's standard redistricting process resumes for all future redistricting after the 2030 census?

A "YES" vote supports allowing the Virginia legislature to conduct congressional redistricting this year.

A "NO" vote opposes allowing the Virginia legislature to conduct congressional redistricting and would keep the previously established redistricting process in place.

• Learn how the change could affect your district. Click HERE to explore the VPAP tool to see current and proposed districts.

• Click HERE for voter registration, absentee ballot, and poll location information.

SWVA residents: We invite you to join us for an upcoming SWVA virtual chapter meeting and be part of a growing regional community! We will discuss VICPP updates from the legislative session, upcoming events, and future chapter opportunities.  

Our SWVA chapter currently includes areas as far east as Lynchburg and all communities to the south and west of that point. While our long-term vision is to establish multiple chapters across the Southwest, for now, we’re bringing everyone together—strengthening connections, sharing ideas, and building momentum as one united group. 

We hope to see you there! 

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