When we lead with our values, we can find common ground on difficult topics. We have more in common than we have dividing us.
No matter who we are, where we come from, who we love, or how much money we make, each of us deserves to be able to live a life with dignity and respect. Together, we will insist on the basic human dignity each of us deserves.
There is nothing that we can’t accomplish if we come together to help one another. When enough of us care about one another, we can overcome any obstacle. Together, we will make sure that each of us has what we need.
When neighbors treat each other with dignity and unite around common goals, they form resilient communities. Together, we will form a community where our people can thrive.
WHO IS JOSH?
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Democratic nominee for Virginia House of Delegates District 50
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Commissioned Deacon in The United Methodist Church
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Passionate advocate for justice and inclusion
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Trained facilitator, public speaker, and mediator
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Married for 13 years, parent to two children (10 and 7 years old) and three dogs
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Community leader in education, civic issues, and community development
WHY I’M RUNNING
A few years ago, my family and I attended a public hearing around the possibility of a short-term living facility for people currently experiencing homelessness. This proposed facility was designed as a safe place for people in our area to get their feet back under them. We have always felt it is important for our children to see how decisions get made and have encouraged them from an early age to find their voice in community matters. I listened intently to the arguments on both sides of the issue. I listened closely and, it turns out, so did my young son. He turned to me after one of the negative speakers and said something to the effect of, “Daddy, I don’t understand, it isn’t that hard – people need a home to be safe so shouldn’t we give them a house?” Such a simple statement coming from the childlike conviction to help those in need. It stopped me in my tracks even as the meeting progressed and the proposal was denied.
So, why am I running for office? Because I had to find the words to explain to my son who saw people hurting, asking for help, yearning for relief from their government. I had to find a way to explain to him that sometimes we make it hard. He was right – it isn’t that hard – and yet, sometimes we make it hard. I’m running for office because we have people in our district who are in massive need and I believe we need people in our government who will respond to it. We need someone in Richmond who will hear the stories of our neighbors and work to help them. We need someone who will see the inherent dignity in each person.
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