Lawmakers approve $1 million to investigate racism at VMI

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) – Virginia lawmakers have approved budget changes proposed by Gov. Ralph Northam.

The changes include adding $1 million to pay for an independent investigation into allegations of racism at the Virginia Military Institute. Northam is a VMI graduate. He and other top Democratic elected officials sent a letter to the public school’s board last month announcing an investigation into its culture, policies, practices and equity in disciplinary procedures.

The letter was sent after a Washington Post story that described Black cadets and alumni facing “relentless racism.”

Northam’s revised budget also includes enabling language for a new redistricting commission voters approved through a constitutional amendment last week.

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