Richmond Community Hospital holds a special place in the hearts of many, including Edwina Richmond, a retired college professor with deep family ties to the city. Born at the hospital 76 years ago, Ms. Richmond has fond memories of the care she received there, from getting her tonsils removed to witnessing the hospital’s integral role in the neighborhood’s welfare, Richmond Free Press reporter George Copeland Jr. reports in this week’s edition.

For Ms. Richmond and many others, the hospital is more than just a building — it is a symbol of resilience, community and history. As plans to demolish the hospital for a new housing project loom, voices are rising in support of its preservation. The rally held on Sunday afternoon was a testament to the impact the hospital has had on countless lives over the years.

Virginia Union University’s decision to destroy the hospital has sparked outrage and calls for action.

The hospital’s legacy must not be erased, but rather celebrated and preserved for future generations to appreciate. It is a landmark that holds the stories of those who built it and the countless individuals who benefited from its services.

As Ms. Richmond eloquently put it, “It’s in our family and it’s very important to me. It’s crucial to preserve this history.” The community’s show of support for the former hospital speaks volumes about the significance of this historic institution. Let us come together to ensure that the former Richmond Community Hospital remains a proud symbol of our past and a beacon of hope for the future.

The rally, organized by Viola Baskerville and other Richmond residents, saw about 75 people gather on the front lawn of the hospital, which sits on Overbrook Road, to advocate for its importance through testimony and oral history, Mr. Copeland further notes in his report.

Indeed, several individuals and representatives of various organizations have written letters to the Free Press bemoaning the hospital’s destruction since we first reported VUU’s plans nearly a month ago. One of the more recent statements in opposition to the hospital’s demise came earlier this week from a key gatekeeper of the city’s Black history.

“On behalf of our board chair, Dr. Monroe Harris, Jr., and executive director, Shakia Gullette Warren regarding the planned demolition of Richmond Community Hospital, The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia is committed to telling, interpreting, and preserving stories that inspire by commemorating the rich historical tapestry of the African-American community throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia,” reads the statement emailed to our newsroom.

“The historic Richmond Community Hospital site on Overbrook Road represents an important part of that history, as it was the first Black-owned and operated hospital in Richmond to serve Black people. The hospital also enabled many African-American physicians and medical professionals in the region to make an indelible mark on healthcare, and their contributions helped lay the foundation for the work and achievements of many Black medical professionals across our nation today. BHMVA denounces the destruction of any such historical sites, which demonstrate the rich culture and moving histories of Black Virginians.

“It is our hope that those in leadership at Virginia Union University will continue to engage with its trusted and valued community partners in a meaningful way to ensure that the legacy of the site is not only honored but preserved for generations to come.”

We could not have stated this any better. We encourage VUU to rethink its position and begin to listen in earnest to a community that long has supported it and its students.

Let’s go!

Despite calls for his resignation, Richmond Superintendent Jason Kamras appears to remain upbeat based on his cheerful RPS Direct newsletters. Mr. Kamras begins his most recent communique by reminding readers that “BOTH John Marshall HS basketball teams play for the state championship Thursday, March 7 at the Siegel Center! The young women play at 12:30 pm and the young men follow at 2:30 pm.”

Mr. Kamras encourages everyone to purchase their tickets online to cheer on the Justices, and adds “While I have your attention about JM, did you know they earned full accreditation last year from the VDOE? They’re an athletic and academic powerhouse!”

Now that IS good news!

Oh, baby!

Please join us in congratulating Mayor Levar Stoney and Brandy Washington Stoney on the birth of their daughter, Sunday Washington Stoney. Can’t you just see the city’s first couple beaming?

“Brandy and I are excited to share that we welcomed our daughter into the world this past weekend,” the mayor said in an announcement earlier this week.

“We feel very blessed and are overwhelmed with love for our baby girl!

“Lastly, we would like to thank the incredible teams at the Virginia Women’s Center and St. Mary’s Hospital for their exceptional support and care.”