Richmond showed up this weekend. We’ve got to hold our leaders accountable—applaud them when they get it right, and hit the streets when they don’t.
But protest is just one part of the work.
If you were out there—or even if you wanted to be—don’t let it end with the march. Momentum matters. And Richmond has no shortage of places that need your time, your energy, and your support.
Start with the basics: Richmond Mutual Aid, RVA Community Fridges, and Food Not Bombs RVA are doing frontline work—feeding people, distributing supplies, and showing up for neighbors in real time. These groups operate on trust, mutual support, and the belief that no one in this city should go without.
If policy is your lane, groups like New Virginia Majority and the League of Women Voters Richmond are organizing around elections, equity, and systemic change.
Legal Aid Justice Center is fighting for housing justice, worker rights, and immigrant protection in court. Health Brigade (formerly Fan Free Clinic) provides free and low-cost health services to those who need them most. Virginia Supportive Housing works to get people off the streets and into permanent homes.
If you’re looking to support Richmond’s youth, Podium RVA and Art 180 are two organizations that help young people use their voices—through writing, art, and leadership. And don’t forget the cultural heartbeat of the city: Gallery5, the Richmond Performing Arts Alliance (RPAA), Studio Two Three and the Richmond Public Library all create space for learning, dialogue, performance, and access. Supporting the arts and public knowledge means supporting the soul of the city.
Diversity Richmond is another essential part of that fabric—providing year-round programming, resources, and support for LGBTQIA+ individuals, and hosting the annual VA Pride Festival every September.
And to everyone who’s supported our work—thank you. Independent media like RVA Magazine doesn’t exist without your backing.
While you’re at it, support the others in local media doing work in and around Richmond: The Richmonder, WRIR 97.3 FM, Richmond Free Press, and Virginia Mercury. And yes, Michael Paul Williams at the Richmond Times-Dispatch—Pulitzer or not, he’s still cutting through the noise and telling the truth. These are the voices keeping Richmond informed, grounded, and human.
Here’s our photo set from Vinny Candela, who was on the ground at the anti-ICE rally in Abner Clay Park on Friday and up in D.C. for the No Kings Rally and Trump Military Parade.
Support RVA Magazine. Support independent media in Richmond.
In a world where corporations and wealthy individuals now shape much of our media landscape, RVA Magazine remains fiercely independent, amplifying the voices of Richmond’s artists, musicians, and community. Since 2005, we’ve been dedicated to authentic, grassroots storytelling that highlights the people and culture shaping our city.
But we can’t do this without you. A small donation, even as little as $2 – one-time or recurring – helps us continue to produce honest, local coverage free from outside interference. Every dollar makes a difference. Your support keeps us going and keeps RVA’s creative spirit alive. Thank you for standing with independent media. DONATE HERE.
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Trump Military Parade in Washington, DC | Photos by Vinny Candela
Anti-ICe Rally in Abner Park | Photos by Vinny Candela
