Recognizing the 18th Annual Out of Darkness Walk

Floor Speech

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Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Northern Virginia community that came together this past weekend for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's Out of the Darkness Fairfax Walk at the Mosaic District.

This annual event brings hope and healing to families across our region, offering space for remembrance, resilience, and collective action to end the tragedy of suicide.

Organized by the National Capital Area chapter of AFSP, the Fairfax Walk has become one of the most visible demonstrations of solidarity in the fight for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Each year, survivors of loss, advocates, mental health professionals, and neighbors walk side by side to honor loved ones and to break the stigma that has for too long silenced conversations about mental health. The impact of this work cannot be overstated: in Virginia, more lives are lost to suicide each year than to car accidents, and the need for accessible, compassionate support is urgent.

Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, community partners, and sponsors, this year's Fairfax Walk has raised over $125,000 to support prevention programs, research, advocacy, and resources for those in crisis. Local partners including Leidos, Intact, SPAN, Interstate, Wellsourced, Dutyfirst, Columbia Mental Health, Embark Behavioral Health, Bechtel, and the County of Fairfax joined AFSP in providing resources and encouragement to those walking this past Saturday.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Virginia's 11th Congressional District, I ask you to join me in extending my gratitude to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention National Capital Area chapter for their leadership, and to every participant who walked Out of the Darkness in Fairfax. Their commitment ensures that no one has to struggle alone, and that our community continues to move toward light, compassion, and healing.

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