2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26108144D

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 153

Offered February 18, 2026

Celebrating the life of Sincere B. Allah.

—————

Patrons—LeVere Bolling, Anthony, Askew, Callsen, Carr, Cherry, Clark, Cole, J.G., Cousins, Delaney, Feggans, Gardner, Glass, Henson, Hernandez, Herring, Hope, Maldonado, Martinez, McClure, McQuinn, Mehta, Nivar, Rasoul, Reaser, Schmidt, Scott, D., Seibold, Sewell, Shin, Simon, Simonds, Sullivan, Thomas, Torian, Tran, Watts, Willett, Williams, Pope Adams and Price; Senators: Bagby, Boysko, Carroll Foy, Craig, Deeds, Favola, Jones, Locke, Lucas, McDougle, Perry, Rouse, Surovell, VanValkenburg, Williams Graves and Aird

—————

WHEREAS, Sincere B. Allah, a respected advocate, devoted father, loyal friend, and valued member of the Commonwealth's criminal justice reform community, died tragically on February 13, 2026, following an acute mental health crisis; and

WHEREAS, known for his gentle spirit, humility, and compassion, Sincere B. Allah earned the admiration and affection of colleagues, policymakers, friends throughout Virginia, and family in Massachusetts who fondly regarded him as a “gentle giant”; and

WHEREAS, having overcome significant personal adversity and more than two decades of incarceration, Sincere B. Allah dedicated his life to service and advocacy, working to promote fairness, dignity, and opportunity for individuals impacted by the criminal justice system; and

WHEREAS, Sincere B. Allah worked as the Virginia State Organizer for REFORM Alliance and enlisted the support of numerous partners to advance evidence-based policies designed to strengthen public safety while expanding second chances for individuals seeking to rebuild their lives; and

WHEREAS, Sincere B. Allah was a tireless advocate for probation reform, sentencing reform, and second-look legislation, frequently sharing his lived experience with state officials to help inform thoughtful, bipartisan policymaking; and

WHEREAS, Sincere B. Allah formed meaningful and lasting relationships with members of the General Assembly, who came to know him as a trusted voice for justice, redemption, and hope; and

WHEREAS, widely respected across political and ideological lines, Sincere B. Allah was known for his credibility, integrity, and ability to bring together diverse stakeholders in pursuit of practical solutions to complex public safety challenges; and

WHEREAS, in recognition of his transformation and contributions to society, Sincere B. Allah was granted a pardon by Governor Ralph S. Northam in 2022; and

WHEREAS, Sincere B. Allah was deeply cherished not only as an advocate but as a steadfast and loyal friend who generously gave his time, encouragement, and support to countless individuals, particularly fellow pardon recipients and others navigating the challenges of rebuilding their lives after incarceration; and

WHEREAS, among those who shared his experience of redemption, Sincere B. Allah was known as a source of strength, guidance, and unwavering solidarity, forming bonds of friendship rooted in mutual respect, shared struggle, and hope for the future; and

WHEREAS, Sincere B. Allah demonstrated a strong commitment to youth mentorship through his work with Creating a Safer Environment (C.A.S.E.) and through his volunteerism at detention centers and schools; and

WHEREAS, beyond his public service, Sincere B. Allah was a devoted father whose greatest joy was his daughter, and he leaves behind a legacy defined by love, service, friendship, and compassion; his passing underscores the importance of ensuring access to mental health care and supportive services, particularly for individuals navigating the challenges of reentry following incarceration; and

WHEREAS, Sincere B. Allah's life stands as a powerful testament to the capacity for personal growth, redemption, and service to others, and his legacy will continue to inspire efforts to build a more just and humane Commonwealth; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the loss of Sincere B. Allah, a dedicated advocate and valued member of the Commonwealth's justice reform community; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family and loved ones of Sincere B. Allah as an expression of the General Assembly's respect for his memory.