[[link removed]]
John,
How do we celebrate “Independence Day” when our health, safety, and freedoms are under attack?
Our lives—and the lives of our loved ones—are changing before our eyes. I know it feels scary right now, but you are not alone.
As an immigrant and someone who became a U.S. citizen through naturalization, I brace myself every single day for the impact of another decision made by President Trump and the ruling class, interpreting what it will mean for our futures and any ability to thrive. When overwhelm and fear fights to settle in your spirit, let this moment radicalize you .
Right-wing members of Congress passing their “Big Beautiful Bill” means we have to fight fascism and authoritarianism even harder and at the local and state level.
The Supreme Court of the United States turning their backs on LGBTQ+ people via devastating decisions in US v. Skrmetti and Mahmoud v. Taylor reaffirms a battle cry our community has always shouted: the Courts will never save us, only we can.
We’ve been here before—and our community has always responded with courage, care, and collective power. As conditions rapidly transform, this moment calls for us to organize.
Our collective action will absolutely determine the course of our communities. We can ensure gender affirming care and abortion care remains legal, affirm the freedom to marry, and so much more. But we have to vote this November.
At the same time, we won't escape this nightmare by voting alone. We must harness our political power through organizing, looking out for each other and all our communities.
We must get organized and we must challenge the power dynamics that harm us. The question is: are you ready?
With defiance and determination,
Narissa S. Rahaman (she/her)
Executive Director
Equality Virginia
Donate [[link removed]]
[link removed] [[link removed]] [link removed] [[link removed]]

Equality Virginia
530 East Main Street
Suite 600
Richmond, VA 23219
United States
If you believe you received this message in error or wish to no longer receive email from us, please unsubscribe: [link removed] .