What's this? On significant observations, Richmond's Mayor or City Council--or sometimes both together!--release a proclamation to affirm the City's recognition of and commitment to the particular observation. Ahead of the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, Mayor Danny Avula shares the proclamation below: 

WHEREAS, the United Nations established in 1994 the annual August 9th observance of International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples to commemorate the inaugural 1982 meeting of the United Nations Working Group on Indigenous Populations; and

WHEREAS, this annual global event highlights the resilience, diverse cultures, and sovereignty rights of over 476 million Indigenous people worldwide; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia formally recognizes eleven Tribal Nations and the United States of America formally recognizes seven Tribal Nations in Virginia; and

WHEREAS, the City of Richmond, the Capital of the Commonwealth, acknowledges the tribes of the Powhatan Confederacy and the Monacan Confederacy as the original caretakers of this land now known as Richmond; and

WHEREAS, the City of Richmond is working to establish a mutually beneficial relationship with the Tribal Nations in Virginia; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Dr. Danny TK Avula, Mayor of the City of Richmond, Virginia, do hereby proclaim August 9th, 2026, as the annual United Nations’ observance of International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples to promote indigenous education and awareness, as well as promote the history, culture and future of Tribal Nations in Virginia.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused it to be affixed, the seal of the City of Richmond, this 9th day of August 2026.  

Danny TK Avula, MD, MPH

Mayor

City of Richmond

The Richmond Planning Commission voted Tuesday evening to approve the Shockoe Valley Streets Improvement Project, marking a significant milestone in the City's ongoing effort to improve transportation safety, accessibility, and connectivity in one of Richmond's most historic neighborhoods.

The project includes improvements to streets, sidewalks, intersections, and public spaces to better accommodate people walking, biking, using transit, and driving. The design has been shaped by technical analysis and community engagement since 2018 and has been developed with deep appreciation for and consideration of preserving and interpreting the area's significant cultural and historical resources.

"This approval marks another step forward in a long-term effort to improve mobility and safety while respecting the history and character of Shockoe Valley," said Bobby Vincent, Director of Public Works. "We appreciate the Planning Commission's consideration and the continued input from community members and stakeholders who have helped inform the project."

"This is a great example of a plan improving through multiple rounds of public input. I appreciate everyone who took part so thoughtfully in the process, and I look forward to the next steps,” said Mayor Danny Avula. 

With Planning Commission approval, including all eight conditions recommended by the Urban Design Committee, the project will continue through the City's established review and implementation process. As design advances, the City will continue to engage residents, businesses, and community stakeholders and provide updates on future project milestones. 

The City of Richmond, along with Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, and Powhatan counties is lifting the call for voluntary water conservation measures, effective Tuesday, August 4. This decision is based on the current flows in the James River being above conservations triggers in accordance with Richmond’s James River Regional Flow Management Plan.  

Though the voluntary water conservation measures are currently lifted and flows in the James River are stable, water conservation should be an everyday practice for all residents and businesses. Conserving water is an important tool in reducing water demand. Water conservation tips can be found here: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/drinking-water/office-of-drinking-water/water-conservation-tips/

We will continue to monitor conditions, and if conditions worsen the call for voluntary conservation measures will be reissued. 

The City of Richmond will host a week of events to celebrate "804 Day." The celebration, honoring Richmond's area code, will include public festivities, wellness activities, neighborhood engagement opportunities, and a signature charity basketball game.

"804 Week is one of the clearest expressions of what makes Richmond special," said Mayor Danny Avula. "It’s a celebration of our neighborhoods, our creativity, and the deep relationships that strengthen this city. These events bring people together in ways that build connection and recognize shared pride. I’m grateful to everyone across the city who helps create these moments of belonging, and I look forward to joining residents and City staff as we honor the energy and spirit that define the 804.”

"804 Week highlights the culture and community spirit that define Richmond," said Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald II. "These events strengthen our connection to one another and reaffirm our commitment to wellness, safety, and civic engagement. I look forward to joining residents and staff throughout the week , and I am fully prepared to bring that same commitment to the Battle of 804, where Chief Edwards and I will settle our friendly debate on who is the City’s best hooper!"

804 Week begins Saturday, August 1, and continues through Friday, August 7, offering residents, community partners, and City staff multiple ways to connect, participate, and celebrate Richmond.

Saturday, August 1 — 804 Day (Presented by Shockoe Records)

Shockoe Records will host an 804 Day block party in Shockoe Bottom, featuring multiple stages of diverse local music, food vendors, arts, and cultural programming. The all-day event highlights the talent and energy of the 804.

Monday, August 3 — City Walk & Stretch Lab 

City employees are invited to join elected and appointed officials for a guided walk and stretch session to support wellness and connection across departments. This event marks the relaunch of monthly City Walks as part of the City’s renewed employee wellness initiative. Participants will receive a commemorative 804 City Walk T‑shirt. Presented by the City of Richmond.

Tuesday, August 4 — National Night Out 

Public safety agencies, City staff, and community partners will participate in National Night Out, the official 804 Day activity. This long-standing event remains central to Richmond’s commitment to neighborhood engagement and community safety. Presented by the City of Richmond.

Wednesday, August 5 — Bike the Block 

City employees are invited to explore Richmond by bike. Participants may bring their own bicycles or use those provided for the event. Presented by the City of Richmond.

Thursday, August 6 — Battle of 804: Team RPD vs. Team OCAO

City staff will have the opportunity to join Team RPD or Team OCAO for a charity basketball game promoting teamwork, camaraderie, and friendly competition. The event, free and open to the public, also offers Chief Edwards and the Chief Administrative Officer a chance to settle their longstanding lighthearted debate about who will take home the title on the court. They’ll face off at River City Middle School at 6:30 p.m. Presented by the City of Richmond.

Friday, August 7 — First Fridays: Lunch on the Block 

To close out the week, City employees are encouraged to participate in First Fridays alongside the Mayor and City Council while celebrating Black Business Month by supporting local restaurants and businesses in Richmond’s downtown corridor. Presented by the City of Richmond.

The City of Richmond, along with Chesterfield, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, and Powhatan counties remains in a voluntary water conservation status in support of the Commonwealth’s request for voluntary conservation. A decision to lift the call for voluntary conservation measures will be made next week, pending continued stable river flow conditions and rainfall as well as guidance from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality’s Drought Monitory Task Force. 

All residents are encouraged to continue complying with the region’s voluntary measures.