HR 129

Celebrating the life of Evelyn Willinette Morris-Harris.
Agreed to by the House of Delegates, February 26, 2026
WHEREAS, Evelyn Willinette Morris-Harris, a beloved member of the Richmond community who formerly served as chair of the Democratic Black Caucus of Virginia, died on January 21, 2026; and
WHEREAS, for more than 30 years, Evelyn Morris-Harris demonstrated a deep commitment to public service, voter engagement, and the strengthening of democratic institutions at the local and state level as she played a vital role in advancing Democratic leadership and civic engagement in the Commonwealth; and
WHEREAS, throughout her career, Evelyn Morris-Harris assisted and collaborated with various public officials and civic organizations in coordinating campaign operations, constituent outreach, and grassroots mobilization endeavors; and
WHEREAS, in addition to serving as chair of the Democratic Black Caucus of Virginia, Evelyn Morris-Harris was a member of various advocacy organizations, legislative caucuses, and committees over the years, including the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and the National Coalition for 100 Black Women, Inc.; and
WHEREAS, Evelyn Morris-Harris worked indefatigably to support voter education and registration efforts, fundraising initiatives, and volunteer coordination, becoming an invaluable resource to local Democratic candidates, campaigns, and organizers; and
WHEREAS, Evelyn Morris-Harris gave generously of her time to mentor junior staff and volunteers, preparing the next generation of organizers and public servants to be effective leaders in their communities; and
WHEREAS, with exemplary professionalism, integrity, and work ethic, Evelyn Morris-Harris earned the respect and esteem of elected officials and colleagues across the Commonwealth's political landscape; and
WHEREAS, Evelyn Morris-Harris will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by numerous family members, friends, and fellow organizers throughout the Commonwealth; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Delegates hereby note with great sadness the loss of Evelyn Willinette Morris-Harris, a treasured member of the Richmond community whose quiet leadership, tireless dedication, and unwavering belief in the democratic process made an impact on countless lives; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Evelyn Willinette Morris-Harris as an expression of the House of Delegates' respect for her memory.