Like many, I was devastated by Supreme Court decisions this past week on guns and women’s healthcare. As a legislator and in the Army, I’ve sworn oaths to uphold and defend our Constitution. Settled law about our Constitution for generations has allowed for commonsense gun violence prevention measures – indeed, some of the first gun safety measures were instituted by Thomas Jefferson at University of Virginia. The Constitution has also allowed for women, not politicians, to make their own healthcare decisions.
I am committed to the fight to keep our Commonwealth safe and healthy. I will keep up the fight to put an amendment in Virginia’s Constitution that guarantees access to safe and legal abortion as well as birth control. I’m also not backing down on efforts to put in place commonsense measures that keep our communities safe from gun violence. There’s a lot of work to do, but we’re not backing down anytime soon.
Connecting with the Community
To honor Juneteenth, I joined Delegate Bulova, Delegate Delaney, and Delegate Keam for a celebration at Bull Run Regional Park. Thank you to Karen Campblin, President of the Fairfax NAACP, who read our resolution honoring Alfred Harris.
Alfred Harris, who grew up at Bull Run Regional Park and descended from those emancipated at this site in the 1790s, went on to serve in the House of Delegates. There he championed the legislation that created Virginia State University, the first center of higher education open to all in Virginia.
Later that day, I attended Clifton Townes and Crofton Commons’ Neighborhood Summer Festival. I had a wonderful time meeting local small businesses, listening to live music, and eating delicious food. Thank you for having me again.
I joined hundreds at Network NOVA’s Women’s Summit this past Saturday morning. We made it loud and clear that women’s healthcare decisions are their own in Virginia, and we’re not going to let anyone change that.
I also had the chance to chat with local groups such as Moms Demand Action, Planned Parenthood, and SEIU Virginia 512. I am grateful for everything they are doing to make our community a better place to live in.
Finally this year, I was proud to be one of the sponsors for the 24th Annual Clifton Caboose 5K Run. While I was sad not to be able to participate in the race as I was away on Army Reserve Duty, I’m glad my team was able to be a part of this community event. A huge congratulations to all who ran, walked, and came out to support!
ArtsFairfax Poet Laureate Program
ArtsFairfax is looking for the next Fairfax Poet Laureate. ArtsFairfax raises the visibility of poetry by supporting a leadership role for a poet to engage new audiences, create new opportunities for poetry to be shared, and encourage the creation of poetry and other literary works.
The Fairfax County Poet Laureate will serve as an ambassador of poetry for a two-year term by promoting the appreciation of poetry as an art form in the county, region, and state. In this leadership role, the Poet Laureate will create and execute a community service project. The Fairfax Poet Laureate Program is executed by ArtsFairfax in partnership with Fairfax County.
You can access a recording of their online information session which covers how the next Fairfax Poet Laureate will be selected. Staff will give an overview of the role and review the guidelines and the online application. You can also view the information session presentation slides here.
ArtsFairfax’s application opened on June 15 and the application deadline is July 30, 2022. Learn more about the program here.
COVID-19 Updates
Vaccines for children: On June 17, the FDA authorized Moderna and Pfizer vaccines for children 6 mo. – 5 years old. Once available, parents should call their child’s pediatrician to see if they carry the vaccine. Health Department Vaccination Clinics at the Fairfax County Government Center and the Fairfax County South County Hyland Center will also have vaccines available for young children at this time. Call ahead to confirm vaccine and provider availability for the specific age group.
Read more here, and information about the anticipated COVID-19 vaccinations for children under 5 can be found on our Fairfax County Emergency Blog, here.
Fighting to Keep Life Affordable
If you or someone you know needs assistance, I have provided resources below that may be helpful. In addition, you may always reach out to our office by email at DelDHelmer@house.virginia.gov – and we will work to connect you with community partners.
General resources:
- Commonhelp
- FCPS Family Services
- PWC Mutual Aid: Prince William County Mutual Aid’s Resources and Services Request Page is available to those living in the region, as well as those from Fairfax County. You can also contact them directly at pwcmutualaid@gmail.com, or find more information about the organization on their Facebook page.
Food resources:
- Food for Others
- Western Fairfax Christian Ministries: Provides food and rent assistance to community members.
- FACETS: This program serves hot meals to unhoused individuals in the Fairfax Circle area. Roughly 100 meals are cooked, and served once a month.
Labor resources:
Rent and housing resources:
To find the cheapest fuel prices, you can visit this website, which allows you to compare gas prices in your area.
Favorites of the 40th
This week’s Favorite of the 40th is Knot-Tee’s Dog Toys. Knot-Tee’s Dog Toys are handmade from washed, donated t-shirts from places such as thrift stores and donations.
Homeless animals hold a special place in founder Emily Webb’s heart, which is why 30% of all profits are donated to local animal rescue organizations and animal shelters.
You can help support Knot-Tee’s mission by purchasing Knot-Tee’s dog toys here, and you can learn how to give back here! And, you can follow Emily’s business on Facebook to see how her business is progressing.
I hope you have a wonderful week.