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 —…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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),…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
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…
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),…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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)…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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’…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…