Virginia’s New Governor Appoints Diversity Leader with Extensive Background in Advocacy and Public Service
In a significant move that underscores her commitment to inclusive governance, Virginia’s Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger has appointed Dr. Sesha Joi Moon as the state’s chief diversity officer and director of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The announcement, made on Tuesday ahead of Spanberger’s January 17 inauguration, signals the incoming administration’s focus on ensuring that Virginia’s economic growth benefits all residents across the Commonwealth. This appointment comes at a time when DEI initiatives have faced both support and criticism nationwide, making it a notable selection for the newly elected Democratic governor who defeated Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears by a decisive margin of over 10 percentage points in November’s election.
Dr. Moon brings an extensive and diverse professional background to her new role. Most recently serving as the chief impact officer for the Girl Scouts of the USA, she has accumulated experience across government, education, and nonprofit sectors. Her previous positions include working as the chief diversity officer of the U.S. House of Representatives during the 117th and 118th Congresses, serving under both Democratic and Republican leadership including Speakers Nancy Pelosi, Kevin McCarthy, and Mike Johnson. Through her private consulting practice, Moon & Associates, she has also worked as a “chief brand strategist” for Representative Jasmine Crockett, a progressive Democrat from Texas who is currently pursuing a U.S. Senate seat. Additionally, Moon served as an executive-in-residence with Stacey Abrams’ American Pride Rises Network, a DEI advocacy organization.
Spanberger expressed confidence in her selection, noting that Moon’s varied experience provides “firsthand insight into the ways in which we can build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Virginia for every family.” The Governor-elect emphasized that Virginia “deserves leaders who will make sure our work to grow our Commonwealth’s economy keeps the needs of all Virginians in mind,” highlighting the administration’s perspective that inclusive economic policies benefit the entire state. This appointment represents a contrast to the previous administration of Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin, as Spanberger’s victory returns the governor’s mansion to Democratic control in what is generally considered a politically competitive state.
Dr. Moon, who self-identifies as a “Black queer woman” and holds doctorates in public administration and policy, has been vocal about her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion work despite facing political headwinds. In a podcast appearance earlier this year, she defended the importance of DEI initiatives, delivering a direct message to critics: “This work has not stopped. You can defund and dismantle all you want, but the work continues.” She expressed optimism about the future of DEI efforts, stating, “I’m excited. I feel like DEI is just getting started. I know that sounds so insane to some people because some people think our discipline is crumbling, and I don’t see it like that. I feel like we’re onto something here.” This perspective suggests she will bring an unwavering commitment to diversity initiatives in Virginia despite potential opposition.
In response to her appointment, Moon stated she looks “forward to joining the cabinet of Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger as her historic administration works to advance a future in which all Virginians have access to opportunity — to include residents from some of the hardest-to-reach communities throughout the Commonwealth.” This statement aligns with Spanberger’s campaign themes of creating an inclusive economy that works for all Virginians, regardless of their background or location within the state. The focus on “hardest-to-reach communities” indicates that Moon will likely prioritize addressing systemic barriers that have historically limited opportunities for marginalized populations across Virginia.
The appointment comes at a time when DEI initiatives have become increasingly polarizing in American politics, with some states moving to restrict such programs while others expand them. Spanberger’s decision to appoint a DEI advocate with connections to progressive figures like Representative Crockett and Stacey Abrams signals that her administration plans to prioritize diversity and inclusion despite potential political backlash. As Virginia continues to evolve as a diverse Commonwealth with urban, suburban, and rural communities facing different challenges, Moon’s experience across multiple sectors may prove valuable in developing policies that address the specific needs of various populations while working toward Spanberger’s stated goal of prosperity for all Virginians.
