Virginia Jewish Advocacy Day once again brought voices from across the Commonwealth to the State Capitol, underscoring a simple but powerful truth: showing up matters.
Nearing the midpoint of the 2026 General Assembly session, Jewish community members representing the Community Relations Council of the Jewish Peninsula, the Jewish Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, the Jewish Community Relations Committee of the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond, and the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington gathered in Richmond to meet with lawmakers, share personal stories, and advocate for policies that protect Jewish life and strengthen the broader community.
Students, clergy, lay leaders, and longtime advocates filled legislative offices throughout the morning, engaging in conversations about security funding for synagogues and nonprofits, efforts to confront antisemitism, and the importance of ensuring Jewish students feel safe and supported in K–12 schools and on college campuses.
During the afternoon program, Virginia’s newly inaugurated statewide leaders spoke, signaling a tone of partnership.
Governor Abigail Spanberger offered a clear commitment: her administration will stand up to antisemitism, protect Jewish neighbors and families, and show up for the community in moments of both remembrance and celebration. She emphasized that Jewish Virginians should feel safe and proud in every corner of public life and reaffirmed her longstanding support for a strong U.S.–Israel relationship grounded in shared democratic values and shared security.
Attorney General Jay Jones spoke about continuing and strengthening statewide efforts to confront antisemitism, including building on the antisemitism task force established by the previous administration as a vehicle for communication, accountability, and partnership with community stakeholders.
Lieutenant Governor Ghazala Hashmi echoed the call to confront hate in all its forms and stressed the importance of collaboration among Virginia’s diverse communities.
For many participants, Advocacy Day was about more than policy priorities — it was about relationships. “It’s a way for our voices to be heard,” says Kirk Levy, JCRC Legislative Action chair.
First-time attendees saw how accessible their elected officials can be. Veteran advocates deepened connections built over years of engagement. Legislators heard directly from constituents about the real-world impact of rising antisemitism and the importance of proactive measures to safeguard institutions and uphold civil discourse.
As the legislative session continues, the conversations begun in Richmond will carry forward. Advocacy Day serves as a reminder that civic engagement is not a one-day event but an ongoing responsibility. By showing up — respectfully, thoughtfully, and united — Virginia’s Jewish community continues to shape the policies that affect its future and to affirm its enduring role in the civic life of the Commonwealth.
Learn more about the Jewish Community Relations Council’s visit to Richmond, or add your name to the interest list for Advocacy Day 2027 by emailing Kyleigh Eyl at Keyl@ujft.org.
