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Dear Neighbor, Our nearly 60,000 federal workers, teachers, first responders, small business owners, health care professionals, and service members keep our communities safe, our economy moving, and our country strong. Across the district, advocates, nonprofit leaders, and volunteers step up every day to support neighbors, mentor young people, and help families in need.  That spirit of service reflects the very best of who we are. Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and I want to share my gratitude for the people of Fairfax and our community. Across our neighborhoods, schools, small businesses, and places of worship, the spirit of compassion, resilience, and generosity in VA-11 is what makes this district so special. One of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions is spending time with my family, enjoying home-cooked meals, and volunteering at local food pantries during the holiday season. It’s a reminder of how important it is to care for one another, especially as many families continue to face real challenges. I’m especially grateful for my family, Yvette and Mateo, for their constant love and support. The challenges before our country are real, but Fairfax has always shown what’s possible when we come together and look out for one another. I’m thankful every day for the opportunity to represent you in Congress and serve this incredible community. I wish you a safe, joyful, and meaningful Thanksgiving. Make sure to follow me on X, Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, and Threads to stay up-to-date! Continue reading below to learn more about how I’ve been fighting for you.   Native American Heritage Month  November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the history, cultures, and contributions of Native American peoples across our country and here in Virginia. Native American peoples were the first Virginians, living on this land for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence shows humans inhabited what is now Virginia at least 16,000 years ago. Many river and place names across the Commonwealth still come from Indigenous languages, reflecting those deep and lasting roots. Here in Fairfax County, that history is part of our community. This region was home to Eastern Woodland tribes connected to the Powhatan Confederacy, who lived, governed, and thrived here long before European settlers arrived. Today, Virginia is home to 11 state-recognized tribes and countless Native American and Indigenous residents who continue to preserve and carry forward their cultures, traditions, and heritage. This month, the Fairfax County Public Library is highlighting Native American Heritage through a range of events, with hands-on activities, storytelling, and cultural demonstrations for residents of all ages. As we reflect this month, we honor the Native American peoples who have shaped Virginia’s history and continue to contribute to our Commonwealth today.   Small Business Saturday  As the holiday season is now in full swing, many families in our community are spending time at local shops, restaurants, and small businesses that make Fairfax such a vibrant place to live. I always look forward to Small Business Saturday, which is on November 29, because small businesses and small business owners are central to the strength and spirit of Fairfax. Small businesses are the backbone of Fairfax County. They create local jobs, give our neighborhoods character, and support thousands of local families. When residents choose to shop locally, those dollars stay here in our community and help small business owners continue to grow and serve their neighbors. Residents can also explore local makers through the county’s Made in Fairfax network, which highlights artisans and small producers creating everything from gourmet foods and candles to handcrafted jewelry and home goods.    A Full-Circle Moment at Fair Oaks Mall   I had the chance to take part in a live broadcast of WAMU’s The Politics Hour with Kojo Nnamdi from Fair Oaks Mall. Being back at the mall I grew up visiting with my family, and now talking with neighbors about my work in Congress, was a full-circle moment. We discussed the issues families across Northern Virginia are facing and took questions directly from the community. Grateful to WAMU, Kojo Nnamdi, Tom Sherwood, and every neighbor who tuned in, called in, or stopped by to be part of the conversation. If you missed the program, no worries — you can listen to it on WAMU’s website.   Walkinshaw in the Community     I met with the incredible team at Western Fairfax Christian Ministries as they distributed Thanksgiving meals to ensure local families have access to nutritious food ahead of the holiday season. Their work reflects what happens when a community shows up for one another.  In Congress, I’ll continue fighting for stronger food access, support for families, and the local partners making a difference on the ground every day.__________________________________________________________  I visited TrustPoint in Herndon to see firsthand the cutting-edge space technology and innovation taking shape right here in Fairfax. Fairfax is playing a critical role in next-generation space and navigation technology, powered by world-class talent and local ingenuity.  In Congress, I’m working to support the innovation, workforce, and federal partnerships that help small businesses grow, compete, and create good-paying jobs here at home.  Local News   Fairfax Earns a Perfect Score for LGBTQ+ Equality Fairfax County has once again earned a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign’s 2025 Municipal Equality Index, a national measure of how well cities and counties protect and support their LGBTQ+ residents. This recognition matters, especially at a time when many communities across the country are facing new barriers to maintaining inclusive local policies. While some localities have seen their scores drop, Fairfax has remained steadfast in its commitment to equity, civil rights, and equal opportunity for all. As a Member of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, I was proud to work alongside community advocates, county leaders, and residents to strengthen our policies and help Fairfax reach a perfect 100 in past years. Seeing the County continue to earn that score today is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community commits to inclusion and backs it up with action. That progress continues under the guiding framework of the One Fairfax policy, which keeps equity at the center of county decision-making. I’m proud that this policy continues to shape how Fairfax moves forward and ensures that every resident is treated with dignity and respect. In Congress, I carry that work with me. I’m a proud cosponsor of the Equality Act, which would expand federal non-discrimination protections to include sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, education, public accommodations, and federally funded programs.  There is always more work to do, but this moment reflects how far Fairfax has come and what sustained commitment to equality can achieve. I’m grateful to the residents, advocates, and county employees who continue to build a more inclusive Fairfax every day. Fairfax Hypothermia Prevention Program As temperatures drop, Fairfax County is preparing to keep people experiencing homelessness safe this winter. Beginning December 1 and running through March 31, the county’s Hypothermia Prevention Program and emergency shelters will offer warm beds, food, clothing, and support services to ensure no one has to sleep outside. Why does it matter? During the 2025 Point-in-Time Count, Fairfax County identified more than 1,300 people without stable housing. Cold weather increases the risk of hypothermia, illness, and injury — making consistent access to shelter and resources critical for neighbors in need. If you see someone who may need help, contact the county’s non-emergency line at 703-691-2131 (TTY 711) to request a wellness check. For full details and more, visit Fairfax County’s website.  Yours in service,James WalkinshawMember of Congress

Washington DC Office2265 Rayburn House Office BuildingWashington, DC  20515Phone: (202) 225-1492 Fairfax District Office10680 Main StreetSuite 140Fairfax, VA  22030Phone: (703) 256-3071Unsubscribe

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