FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 20, 2021
CONTACT: press@iava.org

Washington, DC – In response to Congress’ failure to pass the Afghan Adjustment Act, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) released the following statement:

“The decision by Congress to exclude the Afghan Adjustment Act from the 2023 omnibus spending bill is a tragic mistake that underscores our failure as a country to ensure the safety of our Afghan allies who risked their lives alongside our forces during the two decades of fighting to secure their country,” said IAVA CEO Jeremy Butler. “During our chaotic exit in 2021, we failed to plan for a safe withdrawal of these many thousands of Afghans we depended on during our time at war. More than a year after our exit, we have had a chance to make good on our promises to them. Even though national veterans organizations, including IAVA, backed the bipartisan Afghan Adjustment Act, it was blocked by some in Congress who do not value our national commitment to this vulnerable population. IAVA calls on Congress to recognize this failure and prioritize passing legislation to protect our at-risk wartime allies immediately.”

IAVA is the voice for the post-9/11 veteran generation. With over 425,000 veterans and allies nationwide, IAVA is the leader in non-partisan veteran advocacy and public awareness. We drive historic impacts for veterans and IAVA’s programs are second to none. Any veteran or family member in need can reach out to IAVA’s Quick Reaction Force at quickreactionforce.org or 855-91RAPID (855-917-2743) to be connected promptly with a veteran care manager who will assist. IAVA’s The Vote Hub is a free tool to register to vote and find polling information. IAVA’s membership is always growing. Join the movement at iava.org/membership.