Northam declares March 14 day of prayer, remembrance for Virginians lost to COVID-19

Gov. Ralph Northam has issued a proclamation declaring Sunday, March 14, a day of prayer and remembrance to honor the Virginians who have lost their lives to COVID-19.

The first positive case of COVID-19 was confirmed in the Commonwealth of Virginia on March 7, 2020, and the first death was recorded on March 14, 2020.

The latest count has 9,961 people in Virginia having died from the virus as of this morning.

Northam has ordered the flags of the Commonwealth of Virginia to be lowered on all state and local buildings and grounds from sunrise on Sunday and remain at half-staff until sunset.

“Sunday marks one year since we first learned that a Virginian had died from COVID-19 in our Commonwealth,” Northam said. “Since then, more than 9,900 of our fellow Virginians have lost their lives to this disease, leaving behind families, friends, colleagues, and neighbors of all races, religions, and backgrounds. And while we cannot bring them back, we can honor their memories—and prevent more grief and loss—by working together to keep each other safe.”

“As we mourn, the First Lady and I are calling all Virginians to join us in prayer and remembrance of those who have been lost on Sunday,” Northam said. “One year into this pandemic, we are seeing an ever-brighter light at the end of a long tunnel, and we can be hopeful that better days are ahead. While so much has changed over the past year, Virginians have continued to show strength and resilience, stepping up during this time of great need. We owe it to the victims of this virus and their loved ones to continue doing our part to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 until this pandemic is behind us.”

The Executive Mansion in Richmond will be illuminated with an amber light through March 21 to pay tribute to the thousands of Virginians lost to COVID-19. Governor and First Lady Northam are inviting people across the Commonwealth to join in commemorating the lives lost by lighting their homes and businesses amber.

In an effort to memorialize the individuals who have died as a result of COVID-19 in Virginia, the Northam administration is creating a portal where Virginians can share the names and stories of their loved ones. Additional information will be provided in the coming weeks.

To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccines and to pre-register for your shot, visit vaccinate.virginia.gov or call 877-VAX-IN-VA (877-829-4682).