WHEREAS, Black girls in the American South embody a rich legacy of resilience, creativity, scholarship, leadership, and cultural influence that continues to shape the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation; and

WHEREAS, Virginia's history is marked by the extraordinary contributions of Black girls and women whose courage and determination expanded opportunities for future generations, including Barbara Johns, who, at just 16 years old, led a student walkout in Prince Edward County that became part of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision; and

WHEREAS, Black girls across Virginia continue to excel in classrooms, athletic competitions, artistic pursuits, entrepreneurship, civic engagement, scientific innovation, and community leadership while helping to strengthen their families, schools, and neighborhoods; and

WHEREAS, despite these achievements, Black girls and women in southern states receive less than $4.8 billion in philanthropic investments, underscoring the need to expand equitable access to educational opportunities, mentorship, health resources, leadership development, and economic support; and

WHEREAS, access to supportive communities, strong role models, and meaningful mentorship plays a vital role in empowering Black girls to pursue their aspirations, develop their talents, and realize their full potential; and

WHEREAS, Virginia is home to a distinguished tradition of Black women whose achievements continue to inspire young people, including Maggie Lena Walker, the pioneering Richmond businesswoman and the first African American woman in the United States to charter and serve as president of a bank; educators such as Virginia Randolph, whose work transformed educational opportunities for Black students; and countless community leaders, advocates, educators, artists, and public servants whose contributions have strengthened the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, organizations throughout Virginia and across the South are working to address disparities in access to opportunities and resources by advancing mentorship, education, mental wellness, health, leadership development, and the overall well-being of Black girls; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia remains committed to fostering an environment in which Black girls are supported, valued, and empowered through initiatives that promote their advancement, expand access to resources, and create pathways for future success; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize August 21, 2026, as SOUTHERN BLACK GIRLS DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.