MEET JOSH BLAKELY
Democratic Nominee for Virginia House of Delegates District 50
My name is The Reverend Josh Blakely, I’m a passionate advocate for K-12 education, and I’m running for the Virginia House of Delegates in District 50 to represent the citizens of Charlotte, Halifax, Lunenburg, Mecklenburg and Prince Edward counties. As an educator, minister and public speaker with leadership experience in higher education, community organizations and the Virginia Conference of The United Methodist Church, as well as a resident of Virginia for almost three decades, I seek to bring an unwavering commitment to justice, inclusion, and the betterment of rural communities to the General Assembly.
My campaign is centered around three core principles: dignity over division, neighbors over negativity, and community over controversy. I believe that by emphasizing the inherent worth and dignity of every person and foregoing divisive rhetoric, all communities – from small groups of neighbors and coworkers, to entire towns and cities – can find common ground, foster a sense of unity, and move forward in a positive direction beneficial to all.
I feel called for just such a time as this to represent my community in the halls of power. I firmly believe that by focusing on dignity, unity, and the needs of our community, we can build a brighter future for all.
My campaign seeks to harness and cultivate those community-driven connections, promote a spirit of cooperation, and transcend partisan barriers to produce practical solutions that benefit and are driven by all constituents. At the community level in my hometown of Farmville, I have spearheaded advocacy groups pushing for positive change in the local public school system, as well as policy change at the Virginia General Assembly as part of the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy’s United Methodist Day. Additionally, my background as a clergyperson provides me with a unique perspective on social issues; a focus on issues of compassion and justice inform my approach to complex civic issues as I strive to create a more equitable and inclusive society for all.
As I embark on this campaign journey, I look forward to engaging with the residents of District 50, listening to their concerns, and working collaboratively to address the pressing issues facing the region. My ultimate goal is to foster an environment where every citizen's voice is heard and valued, irrespective of their background or circumstances. I hope you’ll join me.
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