JUFJ had another successful gathering in Arlington on January 23. A dozen community members met to discuss issues of concern in Virginia — immigration in particular — and to identify avenues for personal and collective activism in the near future.

We were joined by Edgar Aranda-Yanoc, chair of the Virginia Coalition of Latino Organizations (VACOLAO). As a lawyer and member of the Latino community here in Northern Virginia, Edgar explained the negative impact of bills the Virginia General Assembly is currently considering. These bills single out certain groups for special scrutiny by local law enforcement, damage immigrant communities' relationships with law enforcement, and restrict access to education. He also asked the group to take action by educating ourselves and contacting our legislators.

We also have the opportunity to travel to Richmond and speak with lawmakers, including the governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general, about these and other issues next Tuesday, Feb. 1, as part of Virginia Jewish Advocacy Day. JUFJ will be represented by at least two participants; please join us! For more information and to register, please click here. We thank Debra Linick of the Jewish Community Relations Council for coming on Sunday and telling us more about this opportunity.

If you are able to contact your Virginia representatives on these immigration issues, please ontact Dan Gordon (violindan77@yahoo.com) or Josh Linden (josh.linden@gmail.com). Stay tuned for additional events and opportunities to get involved!