Rezoning Richmond to prevent displacement
April 25, 2025
This week, RVA Magazine published an op-ed I wrote with Richmond City Council member Ellen Robertson. Together, we put a spotlight on displacement — the loss of many Black residents from this once majority Black city. And we explored what we can all do about it.
We write: “We should face a reality too-little discussed. Richmond’s zoning codes encourage segregation. They concentrate wealth. They hoard opportunity. And they’re ripe for change.”
This matters — especially right now — because Richmond is overhauling its zoning codes. For the first time in a half-century, Virginia’s capital will have new rules about what types of homes we can build, and where we can build them. The outcomes will affect everyone who lives here, but particularly our most vulnerable neighbors.
Please be sure to check it out. And help us spread the word: we’re deeply engaged in Richmond’s re-zoning efforts, and we’re sharing updates on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Bluesky.
With thanks for your support,
Thomas Okuda Fitzpatrick
Executive Director
