I’ve been writing a series on my inspiration to run for the Virginia House of Delegates. So far I’ve covered the environment and public education, but I wanted to save the biggest issue for last in this 3-part series.
Fighting for equality and social justice is not just a campaign talking point for me. It is at the core of who I am as a progressive Democrat - and who we are all as Americans. Our nation began with a bold declaration that “all men are created equal,” and we must continue to strive to ensure ALL PEOPLE are given an equal opportunity for success no matter what they look like, how they worship, who they love, or where they come from.
I want to see Virginia establish economic empowerment zones in impoverished communities. The state would subsidize rent and operations for new businesses in these zones while they get off the ground. Members of these communities will have better access to good jobs and the chance to patronize businesses that keep wealth within the community. These zones would encourage grocery stores in food deserts, barbershops that become social hubs, and other important community services.
We must also rebuild trust between police departments and the people they serve through the policy of community policing. We can not continue to treat law enforcement units as occupying military forces. Instead we need to provide them with the tools and training to more effectively serve their neighborhoods.
I could go on all day. We must end the so-called war on drugs and for-profit prisons. We must protect access to the ballot box for all citizens. We must stop demonizing those who are not citizens - especially people who have come here as refugees fleeing war. We must defend the rights of women to earn equal wages and to make private health care decisions.
I say “we” not because you and I have been perpetrating these awful acts, but because together we can rise up and demand change. If you’ve seen the turnout for town hall meetings across the country, or the crowd at the many protest events, or simply the popular vote totals, then you know that there are more of us. Now is the time for us to stand together to achieve these goals of equality and many more.
If that sounds like a message you can believe in, please chip in a few dollars to help me get the word out. You can continue to follow our campaign through Facebook, Twitter, and our website.
Thank you in advance for all of your support,
Tom