Richmond, Va., Aug 29, 2019 / 10:00 am
A Democratic Party activist with a history of anti-Catholic and other bigoted social media posts has resigned from Virginia Council of Women after her appointment prompted outcry from Catholics.
Gail Gordon Donegan, a Democratic activist and self-described "gadfly" from Alexandria, was appointed by Gov. Ralph Northam (D) to the Virginia Council on Women on August 16. The council serves as an advisory to the governor, awards scholarships, and develops programming.
On Monday, Bishops Michael Burbidge of Arlington and Barry Knestout of Richmond co-signed a letter to Northam calling Gordon Donegan's statements "offensive to human dignity" and requesting that he rescind Gordon Donegan's appointment.
On Tuesday, Virginia Catholics were encouraged to contact the governor to express their concerns.