VA HR373

The Richmond Free Press, a weekly newspaper serving Richmond's Black community, published its final edition in February 2026 after a 34-year print run

Founded by veteran journalist Raymond H. Boone, Sr. on January 16, 1992, the paper grew to reach 135,000 readers with circulation exceeding 35,000

The newspaper focused on issues including economic inequality, workplace discrimination, and criminal justice reform while holding local leaders accountable

After Raymond Boone's death in 2014, his wife Jean Patterson Boone continued as publisher until the paper's closure

The Virginia House of Delegates formally commends the Richmond Free Press for its legacy of service and lasting impact on the Greater Richmond community