Virginia Beach Jewish Community Joins Historic Jewish Heritage Month Event

This past Sunday, Jewish leaders and community members from Virginia Beach took part in a powerful event in Richmond, hosted by Governor Glenn Youngkin in honor of Jewish Heritage Month. The event was organized by the Combat Antisemitism Movement, under the leadership of Bruce and Connie Meyer.

A highlight of the evening was Governor Youngkin’s signing of a landmark Executive Order to combat antisemitism and hatred in Virginia’s schools and universities — a bold step toward protecting Jewish students and values statewide.

Representing Virginia Beach, Rabbi Meir Lessoff opened the evening with heartfelt words and a prayer that set a powerful tone of unity. Rabbi Litt followed with a moving address, introducing a group of Jewish students and speaking with sincerity about identity, belonging, and strength through adversity.

The presence of Virginia Beach community members at such a meaningful gathering was a proud and inspiring moment — a reminder that preserving our heritage begins with showing up and standing strong together.