Tim Pearson, a senior adviser in the Adams administration, resigned amid multiple investigations, including the seizure of his cell phone by federal authorities. Meanwhile, Rep. Mike Lawler has faced scrutiny for his past actions and comments regarding racism, including a controversy surrounding a blackface photo and his failure to denounce racist language publicly. In the context of policing, the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025 advocates for a tough-on-crime approach that critics argue perpetuates racial disparities, contrasting with calls for criminal justice reform. As Black History Month is celebrated, various events across Richmond are highlighting Black excellence and culture, emphasizing community resilience and unity. Recent policies aimed at community cohesion in response to racial tensions are being questioned, with concerns about their effectiveness and potential biases against certain communities. Overall, these developments reflect ongoing tensions surrounding race, policing, and community relations in the U.S. and the U.K.