John,

The 2026 General Assembly is already underway—and it’s shaping up to be a pivotal moment for LGBTQ+ equality in Virginia. From critical policy and budget fights to historic progress on marriage equality, there’s a lot happening at the Capitol right now.

In this issue, we’re sharing how you can stay informed, get involved, and take action this session—including our upcoming GA Kickoff, LGBTQ+ Lobby Day, and what it means that the Freedom to Marry Amendment will be on the 2026 ballot.

-- Equality Virginia Team

The 2026 General Assembly is here—and our movement is ready.
Join Equality Virginia for a virtual GA 2026 Kickoff on Monday, January 19 at 6:30 PM to hear what we’re watching this session, how LGBTQ+ rights are being impacted, and how you can show up in meaningful ways.

In addition to major policy priorities, we’ll break down budget advocacy opportunities—because funding decisions determine whether protections, health care, and community programs actually reach the people who need them most. 🔗 Save your spot: bit.ly/EVGAKickoff

Join us for LGBTQ+ Lobby Day at the Virginia General Assembly!

On Monday, February 2, Equality Virginia will bring LGBTQ+ Virginians and allies to Richmond to meet directly with lawmakers and advocate for equality. Lobby Day includes advocacy training, policy briefings, and meetings with legislators so you feel prepared and confident sharing why these issues matter. We’ll advocate not only for strong policy protections, but also for budget investments that ensure LGBTQ+ communities can access the care and services they deserve.

This is a critical moment to show up for LGBTQ+ communities and make our voices heard at the Capitol. Our 2026 Lobby Day is limited to 100 participants!

🔗 Save your spot: bit.ly/LobbyDay26.ly/EVGAKickoff

Our 2026 LGBTQIA+ Bill Tracker is live!

As the General Assembly moves quickly, Equality Virginia is tracking every bill that impacts LGBTQ+ Virginians—from education and health care to civil rights and public safety. Our live tracker is updated throughout the session so you can see what’s moving, where bills stand, and how we’re engaging lawmakers.

Explore the Bill Tracker and stay informed: equalityvirginia.org/issues/2026-ga/

We did it—and now it’s up to the voters.

On Friday, legislators accomplished a key milestone of the multi-year process to amend the Virginia Constitution to protect the freedom yo marry in Virginia. The Freedom to Marry Amendment, which passed the General Assembly with bipartisan support, will appear on Virginia’s 2026 ballot, giving voters the opportunity to finally remove the Marshall–Newman Amendment and enshrine marriage equality in our Constitution.

This victory is the result of years of advocacy and organizing—and the work ahead is just as important. Equality Virginia is gearing up to ensure voters have the information they need to protect the freedom to marry for generations to come.

Equality Virginia
530 East Main Street
Suite 600
Richmond, VA 23219
United States

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