Today we reflect and celebrate Juneteenth, the day when word of slavery's end was announced and celebrated in Texas in 1865. Yesterday, Arlington County held our ceremony and President Biden signed legislation that makes Juneteenth a federal holiday. The Federal holiday is a historic step and the ceremony in Arlington was an important event reflecting where we and the work ahead in Arlington County.
Deputy Fire Chief Tiffanye Wesley speaks yesterday at Arlington's Black Employee Council event for Juneteenth.
But, as Arlington County Board Christian Dorsey said yesterday, the structural change we need would be strengthened if Congress had passed House Bill 1, protecting and advancing voting rights. That legislation is part of the more important center of the change we need. There is so much work to do. A clear eyed view of that work strikes me as daunting, this morning.
Yet, despite the big challenges, we must enroll in the work of advancing racial justice in Arlington, Virginia, and across the nation. Because we are the ones we have been waiting for. If not us, then who? If not now, then when?
Go to 8 minutes 21 seconds to listen and watch my State of Arlington County remarks. Watch any part of the 22 minutes in total followed by a question and answer session, if you like.
On Tuesday, I shared my State of the County speech on Arlington's recovery, along with the renewal we are looking for. Specific topics: economic recovery and inclusive growth, health equity, housing, hunger, schools, and our environment. Please take a look to get a sense of our ongoing work and to gain a sense of my priorities in service to you and Arlington.
Our work continues: I want to invite you to come to an event Brooke and I are hosting next Saturday the 26th from 430 to 630. Without a Democratic majority in the Virginia House of Delegates next year, Arlington will not be able to move forward the way we want to.
Please join us and/or contribute by clicking the above button, joining us next Saturday, and helping Wendy Gooditis.
Sincerely,
Matt ps. If you have questions or thoughts, please email me at [email protected].
