‘All Skinfolk Ain’t Kinfolk’: Black Women Talk Virginia Election, What the State Needs

October 29, 2025

Virginia's upcoming gubernatorial election between Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears and Democrat Abigail Spanberger illustrates the principle that shared racial identity doesn't guarantee aligned political values.

Who is affected

Black women voters in Virginia
The 20% Black population of Virginia
Approximately 300,000 Black women who have lost jobs
Federal employees and contractors impacted by government shutdown
Virginia residents affected by reproductive rights, healthcare, education, and economic policies
Voters in Virginia's historically Republican districts
Black communities concerned about MAGA policies

What action is being taken

Early voting is occurring from September 19 through November 1
Penny Blue and Red, Wine and Blue of Virginia are producing a video series "What Black Women Want, What Virginia Needs"
Black women leaders from nonpartisan 501c3 organizations are speaking about issues at stake
Voters are participating in early voting with unexpectedly large turnout

Why it matters

This election represents a historic moment as Virginia will elect its first female governor, but it also highlights the critical distinction between demographic representation and policy alignment. The race underscores that racial identity alone doesn't ensure a candidate will advocate for the interests of their racial community, particularly regarding issues like reproductive rights (where Black women face higher infant mortality rates), healthcare access, employment, and economic justice. Virginia's swing-state nature and diverse demographics make this election significant for understanding how voters prioritize policy substance over identity politics, with potential implications for future elections nationwide.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article beyond the November 4 election date.

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer