A letter from Shawn ‘Sha’ Johnson, incarcerated at Nottaway, regarding his case. Includes an editor’s note regarding who to contact if your case was unfairly influenced by corrupt Norfolk ex-detective Robert Glenn Ford.
The Virginia Defender
Established in 2005 as The Richmond Defender, The Virginia Defender is a free community newspaper, published quarterly for the Virginia Defenders for Freedom, Justice & Equality. Print distribution is currently 12,000 and statewide. The online publication launched in Summer 2020.
Comments on the Russia/Ukraine Peace Plan
Phil Wilayto, editor of The Virginia Defender, was asked by a reporter for the Russian news agencies Sputnik and RIA Novosti to comment on the peace plan being proposed by the Trump administration to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. These are the comments that were submitted.
In Our Opinion: Worth remembering
This Nov. 20th marked the 80th anniversary of the start of the Nuremberg Trials. Here is our reflection upon this somber date.
Support for Palestine strong across Virginia
Pro-Palestine activists across Virginia are leaning hard into boycott, divestment and sanctions campaigns as Israel continues its assault on the Gaza Strip despite the announcement of a ceasefire on Oct. 10
The Virginia Defender endorses Charlie Schmidt for House of Delegates District 77
The Virginia Defender newspaper is proud to formally endorse the candidacy of our good friend and ally, attorney Charlie Schmidt, who has announced his candidacy for District 77 of the Virginia House of Delegates.
Summer/Fall 2025 Issue
The Summer/Fall 2025 edition of The Virginia Defender was published December 11, 2025.
Sudan, the Silent Victim: A brief overview
Sudan, a country of some 50 million people located south of Egypt, is facing a serious humanitarian crisis as the 2023 civil war drags on.
The Virginia Defender 