Virginia Organizing leaders from across the Commonwealth met in Blackstone September 5-7 for the annual Grassroots Gathering. The event was well attended in anticipation of next year’s 20th anniversary celebration.
Chapter leaders met to learn more about strategies for organizing around issues important to their communities and heard from guest speakers Virginia Lieutenant Governor Ralph Northam and Secretary of the Commonwealth Levar Stoney.
“Virginia Organizing is proud to have such a diverse group of Virginians come together around a common purpose,” said Virginia Organizing Chairperson Sandra A. Cook. “We were delighted that the Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of the Commonwealth joined us for such an important event for Virginia Organizing Chapters and leaders.”
“I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to discuss a variety of issues with such an engaged and informed group of grassroots community leaders,” said Lieutenant Governor Northam. “As a Commonwealth, we face some real challenges and it was great to discuss constructive solutions with folks who are passionate about social justice.”
“It was great to be in the room with such enthusiastic leaders,” said Secretary of the Commonwealth Levar Stoney. “Virginia Organizing has been instrumental in working for the restoration of civil rights for former felons and returning citizens in Virginia. I look forward to continuing to work with Virginia Organizing leaders to make sure that all individuals’ rights are protected.”
“It is always great to see so many people who share similar views on our communities in one place working to get better at what each of us does,” said Petersburg Chapter leader Nathan McDaniels. “It was a chance to learn about issues in other areas and work together to create solutions.”
At the conclusion of the Grassroots Gathering, Virginia Organizing enters its 20th year of organizing for a more just Virginia. Special events recognizing this achievement are planned for 2015.
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