Affordable Virginia Celebrates Juneteenth with Local Congregation

Affordable Virginia Highlighted How Medicaid Cuts Will Impact Black Virginians

Virginia Beach, VA – In celebration of Juneteenth, Affordable Virginia, along with New Jerusalem Ministries, led by Pastor Dr. Veronica Coleman, held a Juneteenth celebration with congregants and community members.  The festivities included live music, local food and craft vendors, and a talent show. 

“We had an incredible day honoring the history of Juneteenth and how far our country has come since the last enslaved peoples learned they had been freed,” said Joe White, Affordable Virginia Organizing Director. “Our work is rooted in building not just a more affordable Commonwealth, but also a more equitable one. This year we have seen protections for marginalized groups rolled back, and we know that cuts to Medicaid will disproportionately hurt people of color and children. This isn’t a maybe, this is a definitely. When reflecting on the work previous generations have done, we feel indebted to them to continue to fight for communities where everyone can thrive.”

Affordable Virginia highlighted how Medicaid cuts will impact Black Virginians. Last month, Republicans in Congress voted on a budget bill that would put over 300,000 Virginians at risk of losing their health coverage.

“Today we had the opportunity to celebrate our history and our future,” said Pastor Dr. Veronica Coleman of New Jerusalem Ministries. “We know that honoring those who have come before us can be joyous, and today we remembered their joy and we are grateful for their sacrifice. My congregants have a commitment to love and serve our community. We carry that with us as we continue to build a community inclusive of everyone. Everyone deserves a roof over their head, a full belly, and to be cared for when they are sick. This is what Christ commanded of us, it’s our duty to care for the least of these. That’s what we preach on Sundays, and when we celebrate, we make room for everyone. That continues to be our mission and the torch that we carry to light the way for those coming up behind us.”

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