Dear Neighbor,
With the House in recess, I am spending my time across Fairfax, meeting with families, listening to neighbors, and showing up in the communities I am honored to represent. These conversations are my favorite part of the job because they keep me grounded in what Virginians are facing and shape the priorities I carry back to Congress. |
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National Night Out is an annual community-building event focused on building partnerships between neighborhoods and public safety agencies. I was able to make it to ten events, from Mantua and Annandale to Herndon and McLean. I spoke with hundreds of families and thanked the first responders, neighbors, and community organizations who make these gatherings possible.
That civic spirit is a big part of what makes Fairfax such a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. It also makes me a stronger advocate in Congress, where I will keep fighting for safer communities, a federal government that works better for families, and policies that put people first.
As families get ready for a new school year and look ahead to the months to come, there is already plenty on the to-do list. My office is working to make one important task a little easier.
If international travel is on your calendar, I hope you will join us for Passport Day on Saturday, August 15. We are bringing the U.S. Department of State’s Washington Passport Agency to the West Springfield Government Center so Fairfax families can apply for passports close to home.
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One appointment can serve up to seven family members, making it easier to take care of passports in one visit. Appointments are required and capacity is limited, so I encourage you to reserve yours today. |
This past Tuesday, Virginians made their voices heard at the ballot box. Voting is at the heart of a healthy democracy. It is how families and communities shape the future of our Commonwealth and our country.
But at a time when we should be making it easier for every eligible voter to participate, conservative politicians are working to make it harder, including through restrictions that disproportionately burden women and black voters and efforts to weaken African-American political representation.
Today marks 61 years since the Voting Rights Act was signed into law. That landmark law moved our country closer to the promise of equal access to the ballot. We cannot allow that progress to be rolled back. |
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Congress must act. I will keep fighting to restore the Voting Rights Act’s protections, pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, and ban partisan gerrymandering nationwide. |
At a time when the Trump administration’s policies are creating uncertainty and straining relationships with many of our closest allies, Congress must reaffirm the partnerships that keep Americans safe and strengthen our economy.
I was glad to welcome South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas during his official visit to the United States. Australia is one of America’s closest allies, and South Australia is a valued partner as our two countries work together on technology, economic opportunity, and security.
Fairfax is home to public servants, veterans, and national-security professionals whose work helps sustain these vital partnerships. I appreciated the opportunity to discuss the enduring U.S.-Australia alliance and the importance of working together in the years ahead. |
Getting Ready for a New School Year |
Before we know it, backpacks will be packed, bus stops will be busy again, and Fairfax students will head back to class on Monday, August 24.
For parents, caregivers, educators, and students, the start of a new school year brings plenty of excitement, along with a long list of things to get done. From checking the school calendar and updating immunization records to finding supplies and preparing for the first day, a little planning now can make those first hectic weeks smoother.
Here are a few resources that may help your family get ready:
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Enjoy Free Live Music at the Government Center |
Make the most of these summer evenings with free, family-friendly live music at the Fairfax County Government Center. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy one of the final two performances in this year’s Evenings on the Ellipse concert series today August 6 and August 13.
Concerts run from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at 12000 Government Center Parkway in Fairfax. In case of inclement weather, call 571-202-SHOW (7469) for updates before heading out.
View the full schedule and learn about the performers here. |
One of the great privileges of representing Fairfax is celebrating the neighbors whose lives, families, and friendships have helped build our community.
I was proud to recognize Norma in the Congressional Record as she celebrated her 100th birthday with friends at Braddock Glen.
At 100 years young, Norma’s life is full of family, friendship, laughter, and, of course, plenty of Snickers. Moments like this are a reminder that public service is ultimately about people: listening to their stories, honoring their contributions, and showing up for the communities we serve.
Happy 100th birthday, Norma. Thank you for letting me share in such a special milestone. |
James Walkinshaw Member of Congress |
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