FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 30, 2021
CONTACT: press@iava.org

Washington, DC – Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) proudly welcomes the first group of Special Immigrant Visa Afghans and their families under Operation Allies Refuge to the United States. This lead wave of approximately 200 is a testament to the Biden administration’s recognition that, in light of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, an urgent response is needed to ensure that America keeps its promise to the thousands of Afghan allies who provided vital support to the US mission in their country.

IAVA applauds the government response to act with urgency to ensure the safety of our allies. We also must renew our call to ensure that, even as some arrive safely to the United States, it is not forgotten that there remain tens of thousands of Afghan allies and their families who are in grave danger yet do not yet have a clear or viable path to the US. Even as we welcome today’s arrivals to their new home, we must not forget that the US remains a long way from fulfilling its promise.

“This is not simply a matter of keeping the promise that the United States made throughout our two decade presence in Afghanistan”, said IAVA CEO Jeremy Butler. “It is also to ensure that future potential allies of the US know that the country keeps its commitments and is a trusted and honorable partner.”

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.

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