I am always surprised when fellow Virginians look confused when I mention the state’s history related to segregation, especially the massive resistance that took place after Brown vs. Board of Education was passed in 1955. I have written about this attempt to continue segregation before and spent time at the Moton Museum in Farmville, learning more about the courage of the state’s African Americans as they struggled for a quality education for their children. I would like to think that any attempt to make up for this shameful past would be lauded, that is not the case, even in 2025.

Please take time to read J.W. Caterine’s substack post about the failed attempt to rename James Blair Middle School, located in James City County, Virginia, that took place this year. It is a reminder that many Virginians, including those in power, care little for making up for the past.