When Covid-19 caused the cancellation of the June concert dates, I was disappointed, but hopeful. Then July’s schedule was cancelled, and I was a little less hopeful. Last week, when the August cancellations were announced, and there would be no 2020 concerts in the parks, I was devastated.

Hunger has long gnawed at a slice of our community. But the virus crisis may mark the first time that hundreds of neighbors have been seen lining up on the street for compassionately donated food.

Every Virginian has an opportunity this fall to listen to Black voices and to follow Black women leading the way on one of the most important issues of our time. To listen to the people whose lives have been most directly affected by a corrupt and shameful practice from our past and let them pick the cure.

Within this region, Falls Church has the smallest share of black residents, and the second-lowest share of residents who are foreign-born.