Virginia is the birthplace of America, and its leadership was intent on creating an example for others to follow. From the founding of the republic to the battles for civil rights, Virginia has long been a proving ground for both democracy’s promises and its failures. With world and national leaders frequently traveling to and meeting in our state, issues of national and international importance often appear here first, and are reflected early in our election cycle.

The Byrd Machine once boasted a logo: “From the courthouse to the White House.” It underscored the reality that what begins in Virginia can ripple outward across the nation. That remains true today. Virginia and New Jersey are the only two states holding elections this year, giving Virginians the first opportunity to signal how we think national, state and local issues are being addressed. Examples of waste, profligacy and lack of accountability must be exposed, and Virginians have the chance to do so at the ballot box.

This election will also be historic in that the two candidates for governor are women. The election of either of them reflects the changing times in which we live. Virginia, a state that denied women the right to vote until the ratification of the 19th Amendment, now stands at the threshold of electing its first woman governor. This moment is not just about personalities or party politics, it is about progress. It is about the continuing expansion of representation in our political leadership, the recognition of women’s voices in shaping policy, and the acknowledgment that leadership must reflect the diversity of the people it serves.

The Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs will convene its annual symposium, “Virginia’s Elections: Our National Importance,“ on Sept. 25, from 5-7 p.m. at the W.E. Singleton Center at Virginia Commonwealth University, to examine how Virginia’s history and electoral process continue to shape the future of our nation. In-person attendance is strongly encouraged. The event will also be livestreamed via Zoom and registration is required.

>>Register for in-person attendance

>>Register for Zoom livestream

This op-ed originally appeared on the Richmond Times-Dispatch.