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We found 202 results for "Veterans for American Ideals"

Press

Human Rights First Denounces Extremism in Congressional Hearings

February 16, 2023

WASHINGTON, DC – After three Congressional hearings in three weeks where Members of Congress deliberately spread anti-immigrant and antisemitic sentiment, disinformation, and conspiracy theories —…

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Press

On Anniversary of January 6, Antidemocratic Extremism is Mainstream

January 6, 2023

WASHINGTON –  On the second anniversary of the insurrection at the United States Capitol, Human Rights First reprised its call to bring those responsible for…

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Press

Exclusion of Afghan Adjustment in Omnibus is a Moral and Legal Failure

December 22, 2022

WASHINGTON D.C. – Human Rights First decries the decision to deny the Afghan Adjustment Act an up or down vote. Veterans groups, faith leaders, refugee…

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Press

January 6th Committee Report Renews Call for Criminal Accountability

December 22, 2022

WASHINGTON –  With today’s publication of the final report of the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol…

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Press

Omission of Afghan Adjustment in Omnibus is an Outrage

December 20, 2022

Human Rights First calls for Leader Schumer to introduce a floor amendment  WASHINGTON D.C. –  The release of the text of the omnibus spending bill…

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Blog

HUMAN RIGHTS FIRST WELCOMES ITS EMERGING LEADERS ADVISORY BOARD

November 23, 2022

The Next Generation of World Shapers is Already Here By Jayshawn Lee and Isaac Todd Importance & Promise  Young people have always been vanguards in…

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Letter

NDAA should address extremism and antisemitism

November 21, 2022

Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Speaker Pelosi, Minority Leader McCarthy, Chairman Reed, Ranking Member Inhofe, Chairman Smith, Ranking Member Rogers: We at Human…

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Letter

FY 2023 National Defense Authorization Act should include resources and policies to address extremism and antisemitism

November 21, 2022

Dear Majority Leader Schumer, Minority Leader McConnell, Speaker Pelosi, Minority Leader McCarthy, Chairman Reed, Ranking Member Inhofe, Chairman Smith, Ranking Member Rogers: We at Human…

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Press

On World Refugee Day, Evacuate Our Allies Calls on Congress, Biden Administration to Protect Afghan Refugees

September 19, 2022

WASHINGTON – To commemorate World Refugee Day, the Evacuate Our Allies coalition (EOA) calls on Congress and the Biden administration to protect Afghan refugees by passing an…

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Press

Administration Safeguards Afghans from Returning to Danger

September 19, 2022

WASHINGTON D.C. – Human Rights First welcomes the announcement by the Department of Homeland Security and Department of State to assure that Afghan nationals who worked with the…

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Press

Biden Order on Policing a First Step Toward Justice

September 19, 2022

WASHINGTON — On Wednesday, President Biden signed an executive order on police accountability and the transfer of military equipment yesterday which includes policy changes for…

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Press

Human Rights First Deeply Disappointed in Biden’s “America First” Position on Afghanistan, Lack of Detailed Plans for Allies

September 19, 2022

WASHINGTON – In his remarks today, President Biden brazenly defended his decision to withdraw U.S. forces from Afghanistan absent a real plan to evacuate the…

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Press

On the First Anniversary of the Fall of Kabul, More Work to be Done

August 15, 2022

NEW YORK — One year after the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan and the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, Human Rights First continues to…

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Press

Evacuate Our Allies Urges Swift Passage of Afghan Adjustment Act

August 10, 2022

WASHINGTON – As the one-year anniversary of the U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan nears, members of the House of Representatives yesterday joined United States senators…

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Press

Human Rights First Welcomes Introduction of Afghan Adjustment Act

August 9, 2022

WASHINGTON – Today’s bipartisan introduction of the Afghan Adjustment Act in the House of Representatives by Representatives Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Peter Meijer (R-MI), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY),…

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Press

Human Rights First Condemns Governor Abbott’s Dangerous & Illegal Ploy to “Return” Asylum Seekers and Other Migrants to Ports of Entry

July 7, 2022

Calls on U.S. Departments of Homeland Security and Justice to take action to protect our immigration system. WASHINGTON, DC — Human Rights First expresses its outrage…

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Testimony

Domestic Extremism in America: Examining White Supremacist Violence in the Wake of Recent Attacks

June 9, 2022

Elizabeth Yates, Ph.D. Senior Researcher, Antisemitism Human Rights First Before the United States Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs June 9, 2022 Chairman…

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Blog

An Insider View: January 6th Coup Attempt Demonstrated the Need for Proactive Human Rights Tools and DHS Leadership

June 6, 2022

A year ago the United States experienced the most existential threat to its imperfect democracy since the Civil War. The attempted coup at the U.S.…

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Press

Biden Order on Policing a First Step Toward Justice

May 26, 2022

WASHINGTON -- On Wednesday, President Biden signed an executive order on police accountability and the transfer of military equipment yesterday which includes policy changes for…

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Press

Deadly Racist Extremism is Fostered Online, Buffalo Shooting Makes Clear

May 15, 2022

WASHINGTON D.C. -- Another act of domestic terrorism was perpetrated yesterday at a Buffalo market by a mass shooter who had been radicalized into racism…

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Press

Evacuate Our Allies Urges Extension of Ukrainian Parole Program to Afghans

April 13, 2022

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Press

Coalition Offers Recommendations for Resolving Afghan Crisis

April 13, 2022

WASHINGTON, DC – Evacuate Our Allies (EOA) today released a report that analyzes the humanitarian record of the U.S. military’s withdrawal from Afghanistan and provides recommendations to the…

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Testimony

Helping Veterans Thrive: The Importance of Peer Support in Preventing Domestic Violent Extremism

March 31, 2022

Chairman Takano, Ranking Member Bost, and members of the committee: thank you for the opportunity to appear here today to discuss an urgent threat facing…

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Press

Human Rights First Responds to TPS Decision for Afghans

March 16, 2022

WASHINGTON D.C. – Seven months after the fall of the elected government and the return of the Taliban, Human Rights First welcomes today’s announcement by…

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Fact Sheet

Evacuate Our Allies Calls Out Biased Media Coverage of Forced Displacement

March 9, 2022

Against the backdrop of displacement crises in Afghanistan, the U.S.-Mexico border, and other areas, the differences in reporting are stark Following media coverage of the…

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Press

Defending Democracy on the Anniversary of January 6

January 6, 2022

WASHINGTON -- Human Rights First acknowledged the one-year anniversary of the insurrection at the United States Capitol by reprising our call to bring those responsible…

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Press

Human Rights First Calls on Twitter to End Policy Weaponized by Extremists

December 2, 2021

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Press

Charlottesville Verdict a Win for Human Rights

November 23, 2021

WASHINGTON D.C. –– This afternoon’s verdicts in the civil case against the people and organizations that marshaled the deadly 2017 Charlottesville rally is a significant…

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Press

Next Steps After Evacuation of 70,000 Afghans Must Include Access to Counsel, Pathway to Legal Permanent Residency

October 22, 2021

WASHINGTON — Since the fall of Kabul in mid-August, more than 70,000 Afghans have been evacuated to the United States, with thousands more expected to arrive…

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Press

Human Rights First Urges Support for Afghan Allies In FY2022 Continuing Resolution

September 17, 2021

Washington — As Congress considers a Continuing Resolution for fiscal year 2022, Human Rights First today joined veteran, human rights, and refugee organizations in urging…

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Testimony

20 Years After 9/11: Rights-Based Policies for a New Era

September 9, 2021

  On September 11th, 2001, nineteen members of Al Qaeda used hijacked airplanes to murder almost three thousand people. Twenty years later, we are still living in the post-9/11 world. Shortly after the attacks, the…

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Press

Human Rights First Lauds Introduction of WELCOMED Act for Afghan Refugees

September 3, 2021

WASHINGTON — Human Rights First lauds today’s introduction by Representatives Seth Moulton (D-MA) and Don Bacon (R-NE) of The Welcoming Evacuees Coming from Overseas to…

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Press

Human Rights First Calls For Full Evacuation of All Afghan Allies, Green Card Holders, & Americans Before the US Ends Mission

August 24, 2021

The President’s arbitrary timetable harms allies, veterans, and human rights WASHINGTON — In response to President Biden’s announcement today that the United States will withdraw…

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Press

In Biden’s Speech, Human Rights First Looks for a Real Plan, Accountability

August 16, 2021

Washington – As Afghans, U.S. military veterans, immigrant advocates and human rights defenders continue to wait for leadership from the White House, the United States…

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Press

Human Rights First Deeply Disappointed in Biden’s “America First” Position on Afghanistan, Lack of Detailed Plans for Allies

August 16, 2021

WASHINGTON – In his remarks today, President Biden brazenly defended his decision to withdraw U.S. forces from Afghanistan absent a real plan to evacuate the…

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Press

Human Rights First Calls on Biden Admin Ensure Evacuation for All Afghan Allies

August 13, 2021

WASHINGTON — As the Pentagon moves military forces to Afghanistan to evacuate American citizens and the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Human Rights First calls on the Biden administration…

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Press

Major Veterans Organizations Call on Administration to Evacuate all Afghan Allies Directly to United States

August 6, 2021

WASHINGTON – Today, 16 veteran organizations representing over 3 million members sent a letter to the Biden administration calling for the expeditious evacuation directly to the United…

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Press

Human Rights First Welcomes Announcement of Expansion in Afghan Eligibility for Evacuation

August 2, 2021

WASHINGTON – With a rise in violence by the Taliban as U.S. troops near their full withdrawal from Afghanistan, Human Rights First welcomed today’s announcement that the State Department will…

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Press

Human Rights First Welcomes Arrival of First Flight of Afghan Evacuees

July 30, 2021

WASHINGTON – Early this morning more than 200 Afghans landed in the United States, the first flight of the promised evacuation of our wartime allies.…

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Press

Broad Coalition of Organizations Welcomes Arrival of First Afghan Allies, Calls for Full Evacuation to U.S. Territory

July 20, 2021

WASHINGTON – The State Department today confirmed that approximately 2,500 Afghans –  700 nationals who aided the U.S. war effort and their families – will be temporarily housed…

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Volunteer Resource

Marine veteran of Beirut knows what it means to serve

July 20, 2021

I served in the Marine Corps during the Beirut Bombing, and much like post 9/11 veterans will tell you, serving in the military during a…

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Press

Human Rights First Welcomes Action on Afghan Allies, Calls for Full Evacuation to Safety in Guam

July 14, 2021

WASHINGTON – With reports that the Biden administration will commence “Operation Allies Refuge” later this month to evacuate Afghan allies as the U.S. completes its…

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Press

Human Rights First Demands Biden Protect Afghan Allies in Drawdown

July 8, 2021

To truly “stand with” our allies, action must accompany rhetoric WASHINGTON — In today’s address on the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, President Biden offered much…

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Press

Human Rights First: Evacuation to Central Asia Wrong Move for Afghan Allies

July 2, 2021

WASHINGTON — Human Rights First and Veterans for American Ideals strongly condemn the Biden administration’s decision to ask the Central Asian nations of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan…

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Press

Rep. Moulton, Veterans and Afghan Interpreters Roll Out Plan to Evacuate Our Allies

June 24, 2021

WASHINGTON – As the U.S. quickly approaches the formal withdrawal date from Afghanistan, today, Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA), Afghan allies who served with U.S. forces, and…

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Press

Humanitarian, Faith-Based, and Veteran Organizations Call on Biden Administration to Evacuate Afghan Allies

June 4, 2021

WASHINGTON — A broad coalition of 70 humanitarian, 57 faith-based organizations and 15 veteran-led groups used a series of letters to call on the Biden administration to bring the more…

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Press

Advocacy Groups Call on NATO Member States to Protect Afghan Civilians During Withdrawal of Forces

June 1, 2021

WASHINGTON – Today, Human Rights First and 16 partner organizations from seven countries published a letter calling on governments to act urgently to protect Afghan locally employed…

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Press

Human Rights First on Jan. 6 commission vote

May 28, 2021

WASHINGTON — Chris Purdy, Project Manager of the Veterans for American Ideals program at Human Rights First gave the following statement in reaction to the U.S.…

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Press

The U.S. Must Deliver on its Commitment to Afghan Allies, Not Send Them to a Third Country

May 27, 2021

WASHINGTON — With the withdrawal of U.S. military forces from Afghanistan proceeding swiftly, the fate of more than 17,000 Afghans who served American forces and…

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Press

Three Hearings and No Answers: Human Rights First & Veterans for American Ideals Renew Call to Evacuate SIVs

May 20, 2021

WASHINGTON — After three hours-long hearings regarding the United States’ planned withdrawal of all American troops from Afghanistan before the Senate Committee on Armed Services, the…

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Press

Veteran Groups Call on President Biden to Swiftly and Safely Evacuate Afghan Allies

May 10, 2021

NEW YORK — Veterans for American Ideals (VFAI) today released a letter from fifteen veteran-led organizations calling on President Biden to swiftly evacuate the over…

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Letter

Letter: Veteran-Led Organizations Call on the President to Evacuate SIVs from Afghanistan

May 10, 2021

Veterans for American Ideals (VFAI) led fifteen veteran-led organizations in a letter calling on President Biden to swiftly evacuate the over 17,000 Afghans in the…

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Press

As Afghanistan Troop Withdrawal Begins, Allies Shouldn’t Be Left Behind

April 22, 2021

WASHINGTON — As the United States begins the troop withdrawal from the nearly 20-year war in Afghanistan, national security experts, human rights advocates and U.S.…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Sharon Robino-West

February 15, 2021

Vets for American Ideals’ Leader Spotlight series highlights our diverse and dynamic veteran leaders. Today, we hear from Sharon Robino-West of Omaha, Nebraska. Tell me about…

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Press

Human Rights First Welcomes Executive Order to Restore Refugee Admissions

February 4, 2021

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden announced today an executive order that demonstrates that the United States is serious about addressing the global refugee crisis, climate-induced…

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Press

Human Rights Advocates Welcome Provisions in Defense Bill

December 11, 2020

WASHINGTON – Human Rights First applauds the passage of several important provisions related to human rights in the final FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA),…

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Opinion

Reveille

November 18, 2020

For years, I misunderstood the Constitutional Oath which I regularly retook as a U. S. Marine. In fact, for a long time, I missed the…

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Volunteer Resource

Veterans working to safeguard democracy on election day

September 16, 2020

WASHINGTON – Human Rights First is proud to announce a partnership between Veterans for American Ideals (VFAI) and Power the Polls to protect and preserve the…

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Press

Human Rights First Welcomes Passage of the ALLIES Act in the House

July 22, 2020

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill that would provide an additional 8,000 Special Immigrant Visas for Afghans who served with…

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Opinion

America Can Handle It

June 23, 2020

How many crises must the U.S. deal with at once?  As a nation, we have been forced to simultaneously protect our citizens from disease,  economic…

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Fact Sheet

National Security Figures Oppose Commemorating the Confederacy on Military Facilities

June 22, 2020

National Security Figures Oppose Commemorating Confederacy on Military Facilities Support Among Former National Security Officials and Retired Military Leaders for Renaming Army Bases Named After…

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Press

More than 500 Veterans Sign Letter Denouncing Use of Armed Forces to Suppress Civil Liberties

June 11, 2020

WASHINGTON – While protests for racial justice and against police brutality continue in American cities, over 500 American military veterans have joined to sign a letter urging the…

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Press

Marking One Year of the Horrific “Remain in Mexico” Policy – Over 800 Violent Attacks on Asylum-Seekers

January 22, 2020

WASHINGTON – Next week marks one year since the Trump administration began forcibly returning asylum-seekers to wait for their court dates in Mexico, where they…

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Press

HRF CEO Michael Breen Statement on Human Rights Day

December 10, 2019

Washington, D.C. – Michael Breen, the president and CEO of Human Rights First made the following statement in recognition of Human Rights Day and the anniversary…

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Press

Human Rights First Heralds Legislation to Restore American Leadership to Refugee Protection

November 21, 2019

Legislation will overhaul the American refugee system to reassert humane U.S. leadership on refugee protection and resettlement WASHINGTON – Today, Human Rights First lauds Senator…

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Testimony

Michael Breen Testimony at Congressional Hearing “Kids in Cages: Inhumane Treatment at the Border”

July 10, 2019

Testimony of Michael Breen President and CEO, Human Rights First Hearing entitled: “Kids in Cages: Inhumane Treatment at the Border” Before The House of Representatives…

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Press

Holding of Migrant Children at Army Base, Site of Former Internment Camp, Degrading and Abusive

June 12, 2019

Washington, D.C. — Human Rights First today condemned a decision by the Trump Administration to hold 1,400 migrant children at Fort Sill, an Army base once used…

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Press

Veterans Praise Bipartisan Legislation Providing Lifelines to Afghan Allies

May 16, 2019

Washington, D.C.—Veterans for American Ideals today applauded the introduction of the Afghan Allies Protection Act, bipartisan legislation that would authorize four thousand new special immigrant visas (SIVs)…

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Press

Additional Troops to the Border “Undermines Military Readiness”

May 1, 2019

Washington, D.C.—In response to today’s request from the Trump Administration for $4.5 billion dollars for border security, including for additional troops at the border, Human…

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Press

Expansion of Military Role at Border is Shortsighted, Detrimental to Security

April 26, 2019

Washington, D.C.—In response to reports that the Pentagon is preparing to expand the military’s role at the southern border so that personnel can interact with…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Shakir Radeef

March 26, 2019

Tell us about your background. Before moving from Baghdad to the United States in 2014, I spent much of my career working as a journalist in…

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Press

Human Rights First Welcomes Bishop Garrison

March 19, 2019

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today welcomed Bishop Garrison as its next director of National Security Outreach and of Veterans for American Ideals. Garrison, who is…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Teresa Kennedy

February 28, 2019

Our Leader Spotlights offer a glimpse into our diverse leadership: veterans who are continuing to serve their country and community in creative ways. Today, we…

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Press

Veterans Applaud Inclusion of Four Thousand Additional Visas for Afghan Allies in Compromise Spending Bill

February 19, 2019

Washington, D.C.—Veterans for American Ideals, a project of Human Rights First, praises the inclusion of four thousand additional visas for allies that served alongside the U.S.…

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Press

Transgender Ban Undermines Military Culture of Honor and Respect

January 22, 2019

Washington, D.C.—In response to today’s Supreme Court decision lifting injunctions that will allow the Trump Administration’s policy banning certain transgender people from the military to…

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Press

Trump-McConnell Bill Eviscerates Protection for Asylum Seekers

January 22, 2019

Washington, D.C.—In response to today’s Supreme Court decision lifting injunctions that will allow the Trump Administration’s policy banning certain transgender people from the military to…

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Blog

Invest in Human Rights

December 31, 2018

We’re deeply grateful for your support in our mission to foster American leadership on human rights. This mission is grounded in the simple fact that…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Pattie Adams

December 19, 2018

Our Leader Spotlight series highlights the diverse and dynamic veterans who make up VFAI. Today, we’re highlighting Pattie Adams of Los Angeles, California. Tell me…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Sean Horgan

December 12, 2018

Our Leader Spotlights offer a glimpse into our diverse leadership: veterans who are continuing to serve their country and community in creative ways. Today, we…

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Press

Human Rights First Marks Human Rights Day, 70th Anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights

December 10, 2018

Washington, D.C.—Today, as the world recognizes Human Rights Day and marks the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights First…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Tammy Barlet

November 27, 2018

Our Leader Spotlights offer a glimpse into our diverse leadership: veterans who are continuing to serve their country and community in creative ways. Today, we…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Christian Bellavia

November 15, 2018

Our Leader Spotlights offer a glimpse into our diverse leadership: veterans who are continuing to serve their country and community in creative ways. Today, we…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Andrea N. Goldstein

October 22, 2018

Our Leader Spotlights offer a glimpse into our diverse leaders: veterans who are continuing to serve their country and community in creative ways. Today, we…

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Press

Veterans Call on Congress to Protect Afghan Allies

September 19, 2018

Washington, D.C.—A group of veteran organizations today urged Congress to take action to protect Afghan military allies seeking refuge in the United States. In a letter…

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Letter

Veteran Coalition Letter to Members of Congress in Support of the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa Program

September 19, 2018

September 19, 2018 Dear Members of Congress, We represent more than two hundred thousand veterans from every branch of the United States military and every…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Maggie Seymour

September 14, 2018

Our Leader Spotlight series highlights the diverse, dynamic membership of our grassroots movement of veterans. VFAI leader Maggie Seymour is a self-described small-town Midwestern girl at heart.…

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Press

Veterans Applaud Call by Grassley, Shaheen for Additional Visas for Afghan Allies

August 24, 2018

Washington, D.C.—Veterans for American Ideals, a project of Human Rights First, today praised Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) for calling for an additional four…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Gretchen Klingler

July 23, 2018

Our Leader Spotlights offer a glimpse into our diverse leadership: veterans who are continuing to serve their country and community in creative ways. Today, we…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Matthew Deibel

July 9, 2018

9/11 changed everything. Matthew Deibel remembers shortly after the towers fell, a store owned by one of his Muslim neighbors in Ohio was vandalized. “I…

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Press

Veterans: Discharge of Immigrant Recruits, Reservists from Army is Concerning

July 7, 2018

Washington, D.C.—In response to continued reports that many immigrant U.S. Army reservists and recruits are being discharged and having their legal status questioned, Scott Cooper,…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Will Woldenberg

June 25, 2018

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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Press

Vets for American Ideals and MuslimMarine Launch Project Commemorating Ramadan Featuring Veterans, American Muslim Families

May 16, 2018

Washington, D.C.—To commemorate Ramadan Vets for American Ideals and MuslimMarine.org today launched the “29 for 29 Ramadan Initiative,” a project bringing 29 U.S. military veterans to the homes of…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Atsuko Sakurai

March 23, 2018

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series of…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Buck Cole

March 20, 2018

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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Blog

Vets for American Ideals Heads to SXSW

March 8, 2018

For the third year in a row, Human Rights First is headed to SXSW (or South by Southwest), but this time it’s Vets for American…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Maureen Elias

March 7, 2018

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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Press

Massimino Statement on Human Rights Day

December 10, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Today as the world commemorates Human Rights Day, President and CEO Elisa Massimino released the following statement: “Respect for human dignity and individual rights…

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Blog

Congress Authorized 3,500 New Afghan Special Immigrant Visas, but the Fight is Not Over

November 20, 2017

Last week Congress passed the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018. President Trump is expected to sign the bill into law within ten…

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Press

Veterans for American Ideals Launches New Multimedia Storytelling Project Featuring Refugees, #WhatIFoughtFor

November 11, 2017

Washington, D.C.—To mark Veterans Day Veterans for American Ideals, a project of Human Rights First, today launched a new multimedia storytelling campaign titled, #WhatIFoughtFor. At a time when…

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Story

Tanika Roy: The Woman Behind #WhatIFoughtFor

November 10, 2017

Tanika Roy is a Los Angeles-based photographer and artist and a Marine Corps veteran. Her most recent work features veterans alongside refugees in a photo essay…

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Blog

One year after Trump’s election: Winning fights for human rights

November 8, 2017

By Sharon Kelly Mcbride One year ago today, Donald Trump was elected president. For those who believe that American leadership is essential in the global…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Erich Almonte

October 12, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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Press

Human Rights First, Veterans Organizations, File Amicus Brief in Refugee Ban Case

September 19, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Yesterday Human Rights First and its project Veterans for American Ideals, along with No One Left Behind and Vietnam Veterans of America, filed an amicus…

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Blog

Arti Walker-Peddakotla: Veteran +

August 30, 2017

Meet Arti Walker-Peddakotla. She’s a U.S. Army veteran, a mother of three, and the daughter of Indian immigrants, a first generation American. After basic training…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Wisam Al-Baidhani

August 20, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Pete Farley

August 13, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Lance Sellon

August 13, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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Blog

The Turbulent Six-Month History of Trump’s Travel Ban—And the Uncertainties That Now Endanger Our Allies

August 2, 2017

By Saadia H. Khan Six months into the Trump Administration, one of the most politically charged issues is “the ban.” On January 27, 2017, the…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Ibrahim Hashi

August 1, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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Blog

Adam Babiker: Veteran +

July 4, 2017

Veterans served to not only protect their country’s borders, but also to protect the values that their country embodies. Service is not limited by color,…

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Press

Senate Defense Authorization Provision Expands Visas for Afghan Allies

June 28, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today praised the inclusion of a provision in the 2018 Senate National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would add 4,000 visas for Afghan…

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Blog

World Refugee Day Community Iftar

June 28, 2017

By Saadia H. Khan and Emma Bernstein Saadia: As a practicing Muslim born and raised in the United States, I fast during the holy month of…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Matt Lester

June 13, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Cal Hickey

June 13, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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Blog

Chase Millsap: Veteran +

June 13, 2017

Meet Chase Millsap, a U.S. Marine and Army veteran who served three tours in Iraq. He’s also a filmmaker. On one of Chase’s tours, as…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Victor Santana

June 6, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Mac McEachin

May 22, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Reed Bonadonna

May 15, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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Report

Protecting our Allies

May 8, 2017

Over the last fifteen years, thousands of Afghans—working primarily as interpreters and translators—have provided crucial support to the U.S. military. Because of their affiliation with…

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Blog

After Long Battle, Vets Win Fight for Afghan Allies in Washington

May 5, 2017

Ask any veteran who served overseas and they will tell you that our mission, and sometimes our lives, depended on the interpreters, translators, and other…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Chris Purdy

May 2, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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Press

Funding Bill Maintains U.S. Support for Refugees, Wartime Allies

May 1, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today said that the compromise fiscal year 2017 funding bill put forth by Congress yesterday contains several provisions that would maintain American support for refugees. The…

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Press

Veterans Praise Inclusion of Additional Visas for Afghan Allies in Spending Bill

May 1, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Veterans for American Ideals, a project of Human Rights First, today praised the inclusion of 2,500 additional visas for allies that served alongside the U.S. mission…

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Press

Veterans Urge Congress to Protect Wartime Allies

April 25, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Veterans for American Ideals, a project of Human Rights First, in partnership with fellow veteran organizations, today called on Congress to take immediate action…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Colin Raunig

April 18, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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Blog

Lance Sellon: Veteran+

April 4, 2017

Meet Major Lance Sellon. He’s an Army National Guard Chaplain with deployments to Afghanistan and Africa. He’s also a youth minister, a husband, and a…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Arti Walker-Peddakotla

March 20, 2017

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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Press

Veterans Applaud Court Ruling on Trump Executive Order

March 16, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Veterans for American Ideals today applauded last night’s ruling by Judge Derrick K. Watson that preserves the United States’ relationship with key Muslim-majority ally…

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Press

Bipartisan Bill Would Provide More Visas for At-Risk Afghan Allies

March 15, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today applauded the bipartisan effort of Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), John McCain (R-AZ), Jack Reed (D-RI), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) to…

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Press

As Visas for Afghan Allies Run Out, Time for Congress to Act

March 9, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today expressed alarm over news that the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan has ceased scheduling interviews for the Afghan Special Immigrant…

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Blog

Al Chang: Veteran +

March 9, 2017

When veterans serve, they do so without regard to race, gender, creed, or religion. Veterans are as diverse as America itself—but if there is one…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Shannon Rhein

March 7, 2017

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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Press

Veterans for American Ideals Files Amicus Brief Against Immigration Ban Affecting U.S. Allies

February 16, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Today Veterans for American Ideals, a project of Human Rights First, filed an amicus curiae brief in support of Hameed Darweesh, an Iraqi man who served…

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Blog

Sarah Feinberg: Veteran +

February 16, 2017

When veterans take off the uniform their sense of duty remains. And whether a parent, a sibling, a neighbor, or friend, they proudly play the…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Gen. Murray Sagsveen

February 14, 2017

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: February 13, 2017

February 13, 2017

By Mary Elizabeth Margolis Top Items Ruling Upholds Stay on Muslim Ban On Thursday the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a ruling that upheld the…

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Blog

Military Vets Join Baltimore Muslim Community for Conversation on Islamophobia, Muslim Ban

February 2, 2017

While the nation shook after President Donald Trump issued the executive order effectively blocking millions of immigrants and refugees from Muslim-majority countries, military veterans in the…

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Blog

Bully

February 2, 2017

By Sharon Kelly McBride There’s a name for the child who picks on the weakest kid in hopes of getting attention. He’s a bully. Thirteen days into…

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Veterans Stand With the Muslim Community

February 2, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals, a project of Human Rights First, in partnership with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Center of Baltimore, participated in a conversation about…

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Blog

Senator Warren Shares Veteran’s Call to Embrace our Muslim Allies

February 1, 2017

Yesterday Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) read a recent opinion column from the Boston Globe on the Senate floor from Veterans for American Ideals leader Matt Gallagher. What…

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Blog

Veterans Raise Alarm Over Effect of Executive Order on Iraqi Interpreters

February 1, 2017

Yesterday KQED, Northern California’s NPR and PBS affiliate, aired a segment entitled, “Veterans Worry Travel Ban Puts Foreign Interpreters Who Assisted U.S. at Risk.” Featuring an…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Kelsey Campbell

January 31, 2017

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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Press

DHS Reportedly to Allow Iraqis with SIV Visas into United States Despite Ban

January 31, 2017

Washington, D.C.—Human Rights First today praised reports that the Department of Homeland Security will provide exemptions to President Trump’s executive order for Iraqis who are eligible…

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Letter

Letter from Veterans Urging President Trump to Reconsider Executive Order Barring Refugees and Migrants

January 30, 2017

January 29, 2017 President Donald J. Trump The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, D.C., 20050   Dear Mr. President: I am writing on behalf…

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Press

Veterans Urge Trump to Rethink Executive Orders Barring Refugees, Immigrants

January 29, 2017

Washington, D.C.—In a letter sent today Veterans for American Ideals, a group of more than 2,000 veterans of the U.S. armed forces, urged President Donald Trump to reconsider…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Travis Weiner

January 17, 2017

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Tony Clapp

January 2, 2017

Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building unity and standing up for American values. Through a series…

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Blog

Reflecting on the Year: Veterans for American Ideals

December 28, 2016

When I retired from the Marine Corps, like all of my friends who served, I reflected on my experience and wondered if I could find…

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Blog

Veterans Talk Refugees and American ideals on Full Frontal with Samantha Bee

December 20, 2016

By Joe Jenkins This week’s episode of TBS’ Full Frontal with Samantha Bee takes a look at the divisive language around the Syrian refugee crisis—and the group pundits…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: December 19, 2016

December 19, 2016

Statement of Principles As 2016 draws to a close and the next administration readies to take office, Human Rights First and a coalition of 20…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Michael Trudeau

December 19, 2016

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: December 12, 2016

December 12, 2016

Top Items Human Rights Summit Tomorrow Human Rights First will host its fifth annual Human Rights Summit at the Newseum in Washington, D.C. The afternoon…

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Blog

Veterans for American Ideals brings Citizen Soldiers to Washington

December 9, 2016

By Joe Jenkins Last week Human Rights First hosted the first-ever Veterans for American Ideals (VFAI) Leader Convening, bringing together a nonpartisan group of 30 veterans from…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Roman Baca

December 5, 2016

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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Press

NDAA Provision Extends the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa Program, More Visas Needed

November 30, 2016

Washington, D.C. – Human Rights First today welcomed provisions in the final version of the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would reauthorize…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: November 28, 2016

November 28, 2016

Top Items Veterans Storming Capitol Hill  This week members of Veterans for American Ideals will convene in Washington, D.C. to call on members of Congress to save…

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Video

A note from Human Rights First’s President and CEO Elisa Massimino

November 22, 2016

Right now the future seems uncertain. Given President-elect Donald Trump’s brash promises on the campaign trail, some fear that our most cherished ideals—human rights, the…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Mansoor Shams

November 21, 2016

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: November 21, 2016

November 21, 2016

Top Items Torture Senator John McCain (R-AZ), while speaking at the Halifax International Security Forum on Saturday, delivered strong remarks against any return to the use of torture…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: November 14, 2016

November 14, 2016

Top Items 2016 Election This year’s divisive campaign season was filled with troubling rhetoric and policy proposals that are out of step with the United States’…

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Blog

Pushing for New Meaning on Veterans Day: A Call for Unity

November 10, 2016

By Joe Jenkins After a particularly divisive election season, vitriol seems to have spread to every corner of the nation, driving a wedge into the…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Emir Hadzic

November 7, 2016

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: October 24, 2016

October 24, 2016

Top Items LGBT On Wednesday, October 26 National Security Advisor Susan Rice will deliver an address focused on the Obama Administration’s efforts to protect and expand the…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Jess Bell

October 22, 2016

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Brandy Baxter

October 10, 2016

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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Blog

Human Rights First and Refugee Congress Delegates Meet with Lawmakers

October 5, 2016

By Joe Jenkins Last week refugees from across the country convened in Washington to share their stories of survival and determination. As part of the…

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Testimony

Statement for the Record of Emir Hadzic: The Need to Protect Refugees

September 28, 2016

Statement for the Record of Emir Hadzic, Gunnery Sergeant, USMC (Ret.) Senate Committee on the Judiciary, Subcommittee on Immigration and the National Interest “Oversight of…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: September 26, 2016

September 26, 2016

Top Items Global Refugee Crisis On Wednesday, the Senate Judiciary Immigration and National Interest Subcommittee will hold a hearing to examine the administration’s FY2017 refugee…

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VFAI Leader Spotlights

Leader Spotlight: Alex Vazquez

September 26, 2016

As part of United Religions Initiative North America’s #TangibleHope campaign, Veterans for American Ideals is recognizing veteran leaders who are continuing their service by building…

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Blog

VFAI Leader Emir Hadzic Speaks at White House Refugee Event

September 20, 2016

By Joe Jenkins After 20 years of service in the United States Marines, Gunnery Sergeant Emir Hadzic quietly took off his uniform, packed his bags, and prepared…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: September 19, 2016

September 19, 2016

Top Items United Nations Tomorrow President Obama will give his eighth and final presidential address to the United Nations General Assembly. The speech will likely…

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Blog

VFAI Partners with Dallas Community & Refugees for 9/11 Freedom Day

September 15, 2016

By Joe Jenkins In North Texas, September 11th is not only a day of remembrance—it’s a time to rekindle the feeling of unity that swept…

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Blog

Our Voice is Louder Now: Veterans Support Refugees

September 13, 2016

By Joe Jenkins Amid the contentious debate over the U.S. response to the global refugee crisis, veterans are quickly becoming one of the most powerful…

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Press

Veterans Call on Congress to Protect Afghan War Allies

September 6, 2016

Washington, D.C. — A group of veterans and veteran organizations, including Medal of Honor recipients, former chairmen of the joint chiefs of staff, and Human Rights…

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Blog

Human Rights First and Veterans for American Ideals Speak at Rally4Refugees

August 31, 2016

By Kristina Doan and Joe Jenkins Ahead of news that the White House met its goal of resettling 10,000 Syrian refugees by September, supporters of refugee…

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Blog

Vote for Human Rights First’s SXSW PanelPicker Ideas

August 16, 2016

Last March we set out for Austin, Texas to talk about using corporate data to fight modern slavery at SXSW (South by Southwest). Now we’re…

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Blog

How the Sacrifice of One Muslim-American Soldier is Changing the National Conversation

August 9, 2016

By Joe Jenkins This blog is cross-posted from Veterans for American Ideals. Humayun Khan was 27 when he served in the Army’s 1st Infantry Division. The…

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Blog

Why I Joined Vets for American Ideals

August 8, 2016

By Charlie Mink This blog is cross-posted from Veterans for American Ideals. I joined Vets for American Ideals (VFAI) in February 2016 because I believe our…

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Blog

Navy Veteran Doyle Hodges to Governor Christie: Policy on Syrian Refugees Helps ISIS

August 2, 2016

By Joe Jenkins In May 2016, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie announced that the state would no longer participate in the Office of Health and…

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Blog

Responding to Gingrich’s Dangerous Rhetoric on Muslims

July 29, 2016

By Joe Jenkins Vets for American Ideals leader Emir Hazdic wasn’t the only veteran to speak up against former Speaker of the House of Representatives…

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Blog

Veteran: Anti-Muslim Rhetoric an Assault on Nation’s Ideals

July 28, 2016

By Joe Jenkins Hours after the horrific terrorist attack in Nice, France, on July 14th, former Speaker of the House of Representatives Newt Gingrich declared,…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: June 20, 2016

June 21, 2016

Top News World Refugee Day Today, to mark World Refugee Day, 28 of the nation’s most prominent national security leaders, retired generals and admirals, and former government…

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Blog

Refugees Renew America: Events in Honor of World Refugee Day

June 16, 2016

This coming week, in honor of World Refugee Day, Human Rights First will hold a series of events to celebrate the lives of refugees and…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: June 6, 2016

June 6, 2016

Top Items Human Trafficking This week Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United States. In advance of the visit, Human Rights First is urging the State Department to press…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: May 23, 2016

May 23, 2016

Top News Guantanamo On Tuesday, the House Oversight and Government Reform National Security Subcommittee will hold a hearing examining the remaining detainees at the U.S. detention…

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Blog

Washington Week on Human Rights: May 9, 2016

May 9, 2016

Top News Global Refugee Crisis Last week, the State Department released its official resettlement numbers for April, indicating that it resettled 451 Syrian refugees last…

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Blog

Veterans Day

November 11, 2014

Today is Veterans Day and, for the first time in many years, I will spend it out of uniform. I retired from the Marine Corps…

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Testimony

Statement for the Record of Human Rights First on the Authorization For Use Of Military Force After Iraq And Afghanistan

May 20, 2014

Before the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations May 21, 2014 SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS Human Rights First welcomes the Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s attention to the…

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