Dear ,

This week offers us a rare and powerful confluence of opportunities to reflect on what it truly means to be free and to recommit ourselves to the work of ensuring that freedom extends to all people. 

On Friday, we pause to honor Juneteenth, the day that marks the liberation of enslaved Americans and stands as one of the most profound milestones in our nation's journey toward justice. Freedom delayed is still freedom hard-won, and this day reminds us that the arc of liberation demands not only celebration but continued vigilance. Across Virginia, communities are gathering to commemorate this moment together. Visit our website to find events near you. 

In the spirit of the day, I spoke with Robert Lester, our civic engagement coordinator, in the inaugural episode of our podcast, Faith, Policy and Purpose. We discussed the living legacy of Juneteenth, particularly as we navigate significant changes to the Voting Rights Act—because the freedom to vote is inseparable from the freedom Juneteenth represents.

On June 20, we turn our attention to the world stage as we celebrate World Refugee Day. This is a day to honor the courage, resilience, and dignity of the millions of people who were forced to flee their homes due to violence and persecution—people who sought not only refuge, but what all of us deserve: safety, stability, and the freedom to live without fear. 

Meanwhile, our state legislature is working towards an agreement on the state budget. Both the House and Senate proposals have been released, and the conversations ahead will shape much of what is possible for Virginians in the months to come. 

We want to be clear: a budget is never just a government document. It is a declaration of values. It reflects who we believe deserves protection, investment, and opportunity. As negotiations move forward, we will be watching closely and advocating loudly to ensure that the people of Virginia, especially those who have known what it means to be left out, remain at the center of every decision. 

Freedom, after all, is not just a day on the calendar. It is a standard we must hold our institutions to every day, in every budget line, and in every vote. 

In Solidarity,
Keisha

Rev. Dr. LaKeisha Cook
Executive Director

Virginia is celebrating Juneteenth in cities and towns across the state. Click the link below for a list of events. 

We are excited to come together in Richmond, at Studio Two Three, on Thursday, June 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to build community and share our hopes and concerns about maternal health policy work. These conversations will help shape our maternal health work in 2027.

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