Richmond declares racism a public health crisis. What happens next?
The resolution makes Richmond the first locality in Virginia to make this public health declaration. The Virginia General Assembly passed a similar statement earlier in the year.
and last updated 2021-07-27 18:34:09-04
RICHMOND, Va. When gunshots rang out at National Park in D.C. during a major league baseball game earlier this month, Richmond City Councilman Michael Jones said his reaction at the moment is one example of why the city declared racism a public health crisis.
Jones was at the game sitting along the third baseline.
âIâm bothered by the fact that I wasnât bothered by the gunfire because I hear it all the time right here,â Jones said near a house in south Richmond. âIf Iâm that way at 53, what about these kids that are growing up in that?â