[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 164 (Monday, October 6, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E932]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            RECOGNIZING THE 18TH ANNUAL OUT OF DARKNESS WALK

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 6, 2025

  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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