Debra Gardner: Championing Economic Security and Celebrating Juneteenth
I am honored to share that I have been named a 2024 Economic Security Ally by @teamfreedomva. This recognition reflects our significant progress toward achieving a Paid Family and Medical Leave program, improving Virginia’s tax system, and continuing efforts to lower prescription drug costs. I am proud to be an ally for hard-working Virginia families as our work continues.
Economic Security Ally
This year, our focus on economic security has led to substantial strides in various areas:
Paid Family and Medical Leave: We are closer to establishing a comprehensive program that ensures families can take necessary time off without financial hardship.
Tax System Improvements: Efforts to make Virginia’s tax system more equitable and efficient are underway.
Lowering Prescription Drug Costs: Continued work in reducing the burden of prescription drug prices on families is a priority.
The History of Juneteenth
Juneteenth is a blend of the words June and nineteenth. Although President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation freed the slaves in 1863, it could not be enforced in many places in the South until the end of the Civil War in April 1865. Many Americans celebrate Juneteenth, which marks June 19, 1865, the day Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and enslaved people in Texas first learned that slavery had been abolished and the Civil War was over.
In celebration, Americans are encouraged to join together in a spirit of reconciliation to remember the sacrifices made for freedom in the United States by those who fought for their beliefs and then were able to work together as free persons in support of each other.
I encourage each of you to continue to learn more about the importance of Juneteenth and the African American cultural heritage. I am happy to share some of my celebration events with you in the coming weeks.
Stay Engaged
As we celebrate these milestones and continue our work, I urge you to stay engaged and informed. Together, we can make significant strides toward a better future for all Virginians.
For more updates and information on upcoming events, visit Debra Gardner for Delegate.
