Editor’s Letter

Editor's Letter / June 16, 2021

Dear Family,

June is a month of celebration and recognition. We celebrate fathers. It’s Black Music Month. Oscar the Grinch has his birthday. Because June is named for Juno the Roman Goddess of marriage. It is thought that those married during this month would be blessed with prosperity and happiness. June is an amazing month! This month’s issue is very special to us. We are recognizing and highlighting freedom and a commitment to equity and inclusion.

Inside, you’ll find an illuminating article on gender fluidity in fashion and this month’s booklist to highlight Rainbow Book Month. We introduce you to a SWVA native who is an award-winning photojournalist. I’m especially excited about our feature on Carilion’s Dr. NL Bishop. A man’s whose life and career are dedicated to diversity and inclusion. This month’s Scholar is a young man who as a student, has been a leader for change at Christiansburg High School and beyond. And we would be remiss without recognizing and honoring Juneteenth.

Our cover, photographed by the talented Phillip Barret Jr, is powerful and captures pride and excellence. It is my hope that after reading this issue, you are not only filled with pride but are ready to commit to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Tags: Editor's Letter

Karen E. Jones
Karen joined ColorsVA in April 2017. In her role, she assists Robert and Greg by providing executive administrative support, manages social media, and assists in planning and coordination of events. Karen loves her hometown of Christiansburg and the New River Valley. She is actively involved with organizations and issues that promote diversity, social justice, community awareness, and working with children and youth. Karen is the oldest of four girls raised by their father. She’s the favorite auntie to 13 nieces and nephews. Karen earned her Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication with a concentration in Public Relations from Radford University. She is a member of Asbury UMC, serves on the board of the Old Hill School Community Center in Christiansburg, Political Action Chair of the Montgomery County-Radford City-Floyd County NAACP and member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. “You don’t make progress by sitting on the sidelines” ~ Shirley Chisholm, first Black woman to serve in the US House of Representatives Karen E. Jones Editor in Chief