Community Conversations
Controversy/History
Returning for the 12th year, the Valentine’s Controversy/History series invites Richmonders to ask: why is the cost of thriving in Richmond so damn high?
In a series of five conversations each featuring a diverse panel of experts, the Valentine provides a forum for exploring the challenges facing the Richmond community with a deep dive into historical context, quantitative data and solution-oriented thinking with co-hosts Kelli Lemon (Richmond Times-Dispatch and Virginia Video Network) and Josh Epperson. Everyone in the room is encouraged to get involved in shaping the region’s future.
In partnership with PlanRVA, the 2024-2025 season will align with the Urban Institute’s Upward Mobility Framework, using the framework’s five pillars to explore upward mobility in ways that impact every Richmond citizen with an emphasis on our everyday experiences and looking towards the future.
Controversy/History is free and open to the public. Enjoy refreshments from a cash bar and dive into the conversation! Registration is not required, but encouraged.
2024/2025 Controversy/History Schedule:
Too Damn High! Rising Rents & Richmond’s Affordable Housing Crisis
October 15, 2024, 5:30-7:15
Too Damn High! Medical Costs & Access to Quality Care
November 12, 2024, 5:30-7:15 p.m.
Too Damn High! The Price of Foregoing the Traditional 9-5
January 14, 2025, 5:30-7:15 p.m.
Too Damn High! The Pressure of Childcare in the First Five Years
February 11, 2025, 5:30-7:15 p.m.
Too Damn High! Violence in Richmond & the Path to Safer Communities
March 11, 2025, 5:30-7:15 p.m.
This series is sponsored in part by Altria.