Leesburg, Va. - On February 26, 2022, at 10 a.m. Leesburg families will march from Shenandoah Square at 950 Edwards Ferry Rd NE in Leesburg toward the Loudoun County Government Center at 1 Harrison St SE to demand elected officials take housing justice action during the Board of Supervisors budget public hearing. 

Many of these families are on the verge of displacement in a county that is the richest in the nation. Families in the Leesburg community are largely working-class immigrants who are concerned about the future of their children. Many are considered essential workers – child care workers, restaurant workers, hotel workers, grocery store workers, farm workers, and many other important roles. 

Community members will testify to ask that board members dedicate a majority of housing funds to support housing for working class families. Jenny Vega, a Leesburg resident, said, “The interest [to rent] is very high and we must pay an initial fee of 20%. My income does not allow us to save this money. My children need a place where they can grow and have a decent space to live in. I feel that the lack of opportunities could affect my children's future.” 

NVM Organizer Sofia Saiyed said, “ We are marching in support of the ½ penny for housing, and to send a message to all of Loudoun County that we are not invisible, and we deserve to have a home in the communities where we work.”

To speak with Sofia Saiyed or to speak with a resident, contact Debra Freeman at [email protected] or 757-452-1143.

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New Virginia Majority builds power in working-class communities of color, in immigrant communities, among LGBTQ people, women, youth, and progressives across the Commonwealth. We organize for racial and economic justice through large-scale political education, mobilization and advocacy around dozens of issues. We fight for a Virginia that is just, democratic and environmentally sustainable. For more information, visit our website and follow us on Twitter and Facebook at @NewVAMajority.