RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- On Monday, Jan. 6, the NAACP Virginia State Conference (Virginia NAACP) announced its 2025 Legislative Priorities for the Virginia General Assembly 2025 regular session. According to Virginia NAACP, during the virtual press conference held earlier today, leaders in the organization gathered to discuss legislation that the organization supports and opposes in the state legislature. “Our agenda is centered on advancing equity and justice for all Virginians. We look forward to working together to create a more inclusive future," said Virginia NAACP Political Action Chair Gaylene Kanoyton. "The Virginia NAACP remains committed to advancing justice and equity across all sectors, ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard and prioritized in the legislative process.” The following outlines the legislative priorities for the NAACP in 2025: Education: The Virginia NAACP plans to continue advocating for the highest learning, safety and equity standards in public schools in the state -- while making a priority of student rights and freedom of speech on university and college campuses. Environmental and Climate Justice: The organization plans to persist in advocating for polices and programs that promote clean car standards, zero emissions, the elimination of climate racism, corporate responsibility, as well as a fair transition into a clean energy economy for Black and all communities -- by providing research tools, educational materials and strategies that align with the NAACP Center for Environmental Climate Justice. Healthcare: According to Virginia NAACP, the organization will advocate for racial and ethnic inequities present in the healthcare system, which undermine communities of color, diminish their life opportunities and hinder their ability to contribute to common good. Housing: The organization confirmed they will support bills that advance housing stability, affordability and anti-discrimination. Race and Justice: The Virginia NAACP stated that its organization is advocating for smarter criminal justice policies that keeps communities safe, the elimination of racial disparities in the juvenile justice system, strengthening gun safety laws, investing in violence prevention in communities and mental health services. Workforce, Labor and Economics Empowerment: The organization aims to support policies and legislation that improve financial and economic education, asset-building, job training, a "livable wage" and affordable housing for Black Virginians and other groups that are underserved. Voting Rights and Political Representation: The organization plans to advocate for improvements that will increase voter access in the state. Additional information on Virginia NAACP's 2025 Legislative Priorities can be found here. “The Virginia NAACP will tackle issues that impact the Black community, including economic opportunity, education, and criminal justice reform, just to name a few.," said Our work continues to ensure civil rights and social justice for all. Virginia cannot truly progress until all Virginians have equal and equitable access, and this can only be done by keeping Black people at the top of every agenda. We will continue to push for policy that enhances the lives of Black Virginians.” Virginia NAACP President Rev. Cozy Bailey