RICHMOND, VA- The Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy is calling for media to be present on Oct. 4th, 2024, for a Faith Leaders for Peace Press Conference. Over 200 faith leaders in the Commonwealth are collectively calling for peace during the election season. Faith leaders have signed on to a statement encouraging civic leaders to use peaceful and unifying dialogue over divisive ones. This election season has showcased how divisive rhetoric can lead to violence. The purpose is not to tell anyone how to vote on Nov. 5th, but rather to remind everyone of the transformative power they hold daily to choose to treat others with kindness and dignity. Click here for a copy of the statement.
Speakers will include Dr. Anthony Fludd, VICPP Board President; Dr. Mark Snipes, coordinator of Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Virginia; Dr. Charlie Turner, Executive Director Virginia Muslim Civic League, Dr. Emmanual Harris of Jerusalem Baptist Church and Rabbi Ellen Jaffe-Gill, rabbi of Tidewater Chavurah.
“We must remain steadfast in our sacred pursuit for peace and justice, balancing compassion and courage, and leading with grace for ourselves, for others, and for the shared community we serve.” Said Joshua Jefferys, VICCP Board Member and Jewish Chaplin for the University of Richmond.

“Words are powerful; they can be used as tools to persuade and inspire. In this election season, the faith leaders of the Commonwealth are using our collective words to implore civic leaders and those running for public office to choose their words carefully. Violent rhetoric is an unacceptable choice.” Said Rev. Dr. LaKeisha Cook, Co-Executive Director of Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy
“To follow in the footsteps of our shared Prophets is to spread peace and foster goodwill amongst our friends, family, neighbors, and fellow citizens. Peddling divisive rhetoric has become the unfortunate norm of our modern political discourse, but it remains the antithesis of ethical, much less faith-driven, leadership. Not only does it undermine our democratic process, but it erodes sympathy and understanding between people. In this moment, our nation desperately needs leaders committed to healing and reconciliation who will restore faith in our government and trust in each other.” Said Dr. Charlie Turner, Executive Director of Virginia Muslims Civic League.
Press Conference Information:
Date: Friday, Oct 4th, 2024
Time: 11 a.m. (members of the press are expected to arrive no later the 10: 50 a.m.)
Location: Virginia State Capitol, Bell Tower

About Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy: Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy (VICPP) is a multi-faith, nonprofit, non-partisan organization with a statewide base that includes over 20,000 people of faith and good will in every legislative district in Virginia, working together with hope for and focus on a more just society.

END