RICHMOND, Va. – Virginia’s black state lawmakers plan to boycott an event this week celebrating the beginnings of American democracy because President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend.
The Virginia Legislative Black Caucus announced Monday that its members would not attend a ceremony in Jamestown on Tuesday marking the 400th anniversary of the first representative assembly in the Western Hemisphere.
The group said in a statement that Trump’s participation is “antithetical to the principles” the caucus stands for.
Caucus members have instead planned alternative commemorative events Tuesday in Richmond.
Trump is among the state and national leaders gathering for the celebration Tuesday.
The convening of the legislative assembly in 1619 formed the basis of today’s representative system of government in the U.S.
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