Join

Northam gives the nod to Godwin, for whom Prince William used to have a school named

Gov. Ralph Northam today marked the 50th anniversary of the state’s most current constitution, a document that outlines how liberty and justice for all Virignins should be delivered.

The state’s constitution was rewritten in 1971—the old document, which dated back to the early 1900s, disenfranchised blacks and prevented school integration.

In a press release, Northam paid homage to Virginia Gov. Mills Godwin, who led the charge to re-write the constitution to create a document that called for equality for everyone.

Work on the 1971 Virginia Constitution began in 1968 when Governor Mills E. Godwin, Jr. appointed a commission to revise the 1902 document. This action came in response to the momentous social changes of the 1960s, including the passage of the Civil Rights Act and other laws that superseded discriminatory provisions in state constitutions, including that of Virginia.

In addition to integrating schools, he expanded them and is considered to be the “father” of Virginia’s Community College System, pushing for its creation during his second term in office.

You’ll remember Prince William County used to have a middle school in Dale City named for Godwin. Until five years ago, the County School Board voted to rename the school after county resident George Hampton.

At the time, the renaming process divided the community.

Those who opposed the name change cited Godwin’s achievements in the civil rights area and his accomplishments as governor as reasons to keep his name on the building.

Those who urged for a name change cited Godwin’s first term as governor, from 1966 to 1970, when he was a Democrat and led the charge for what is known as “massive resistance,” an effort to block racial integration of schools.

Godwin later became a Republican, changed his tune, and served a second term as governor from 1974 to 1978.

Author

  • I'm the Founder and Publisher of Potomac Local News. Raised in Woodbridge, I'm now raising my family in Northern Virginia and care deeply about our community. If you're not getting our FREE email newsletter, you are missing out. Subscribe Now!

    View all posts

Recent Stories

Santa Claus made a festive entrance at Potomac Mills mall today at 2 p.m., marking the beginning of the holiday season with a cheerful celebration in the Grand Court, located next to TJ Maxx.

(The Center Square) — The average American’s energy bill could increase from 25% to 70% in the next 10 years without intervention from policymakers, according to a new study from Washington, D.C.-based think tank the Jack Kemp Foundation.

Fredericksburg officials used map boards and statistics to present potential plans for another bridge across the Rappahannock River at a public meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 20.

On Wednesday, November 20, 2024, the Rotary Club of Manassas significantly contributed to the local community by donating $24,000 to Willing Warriors, a nonprofit organization that supports wounded service members and their families.

Travel to French soil and celebrate with us for an unforgettable evening of delicious food, wine and music.

What better way to celebrate the end of the 2024 wine harvest in style than at the Embassy of France at DC’s only official celebration?

This is the Wine Event Of The Year!

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by current events, family responsibilities, or the demands of work? If stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion are weighing you down, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face it alone. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel insurmountable, and we’re here to help.

We offer in person and virtual appointments. Our in person office is located in Kingstowne Virginia.

Our team offers compassionate support and practical tools tailored to help you navigate life’s complexities with greater ease and confidence. Whether you’re struggling with personal issues, managing family stress, or dealing with professional pressures, we are committed to helping you find peace and clarity.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Sing a Song of Christmas!!!

Join the New Dominion Choraliers for an impressive and exciting concert celebrating the Brightest and Best of the season. Along with the Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra, the chorus opens the program opens with Vivaldi’s Gloria, a joyful hymn of praise

×

Subscribe to our mailing list