Dear Representative:
I am writing on behalf of the AFL-CIO, to urge you to support The Veteran Service Recognition Act of 2022 (H.R. 7946). This bill, sponsored by Representative Mark Takano, would provide vital protections for noncitizen veterans who have served our country with honor.
There is an urgent need to end the shameful practice of deporting military service members and their families, as well as to help untold numbers of deported veterans return home. The Veteran Service Recognition Act puts forth a series of provisions that would help repatriate our military veterans and prevent the unjust and arbitrary deportation of veterans in the future. Rather than leaving noncitizen veterans to navigate our complex immigration system on their own, H.R. 7946 would require U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services the Department of Defense to facilitate opportunities for recruits and veterans to obtain U.S. citizenship and establish a committee to advise on any case involving the removal of a service member or veteran.
Congress must take action to ensure that brave veterans are afforded adequate support to reintegrate into the workforce and address trauma and other issues resulting from their service. This bill outlines important steps to address shameful injustices and prevent further efforts to criminalize and deport our immigrant communities.
The practice of deporting veterans is a stain on our nation’s honor. Patriots who serve our country in uniform must receive the respect and fair treatment that they deserve. We strongly urge you to vote for H.R. 7946.
Sincerely,
William Samuel, Director
Government Affairs