Virginia on Our Minds
Outraged by the news this week? We are, too- it felt like white nationalist week at the White House. But don't just get mad- get active. Time to end the white male landed gentry's control over public policy, and we are focused on the place where it all started: Virginia.
Virginia has a statewide election this year, on November 7. We want to make sure that we turn state government every shape, size and color and elect candidates that represent an increasingly diverse state population, and that stand up for inclusive public policy that is good for everyone.
Several great candidates have endorsed the Diversity Declaration. They will work for all of us. So let's go to work for them!
Hala Ayala is our candidate for District 51, in Prince William county. Hala is a wonderful part-Latino, part Middle Eastern single mom running against an ultra-conservative opponent who would roll back the clock on women's rights. Hala is a great champion for women's rights, for immigrants and for working families. You can read more about Hala and the great reasons to support her here!
Jennifer Foy is our District 2 candidate, a district which bridges Prince William and Stafford Counties. Jennifer is used to breaking down barriers- she was one of the first women cadets at VMI! A public defender with a firm commitment to equality for all, Jennifer is walking the walk when it comes to inclusion in her own campaign team, drawing on the terrific team at Inclusv. Check out Jennifer's impressive bio here.
Danica Roem is our District 13 candidate, and we know she can turn this Prince William/Manassas Park district blue! A former journalist, Danica is running against a notorious conservative, Bob Marshall. Danica is a champion for equality of every kind, including economic equality - making sure all Virginians have fair wages and adequate health care. Check out her fabulous endorsement from Human Rights Campaign here!
Kathy Tran is our District 42 candidate, and she has every reason to be a champion for civil rights, and particularly immigrants' rights as a daughter of refugees. She has pledged to fight gerrymandering and other voter suppression tactics, to make sure every Virginian's vote counts. Find out about her positions here.
Virginia is our immediate focus, but we aim to engage and elect more diversity champions at every level of government, in every state. We are an all-volunteer organization, and we will need lots more help in Virginia and beyond. Follow us on Facebook for regular updates about candidates and on and actions that affect voting and civil rights.