IAVA increases awareness in the media, among the American public, and in Washington to ensure that the voices of our newest generation of veterans are heard and listened to.
Our Ethos
We are here to serve and empower our post9/11 veterans community. We believe these dynamic men and women represent America’s future — our next greatest generation. They are our true north, and everything we do is designed to focus on them and the positive future they bring to the world.
We hold ourselves to the highest standards of efficiency, effectiveness, honesty, and transparency. We fight hard and take tough stands. That’s not always easy, but it’s who we are and what our mission requires.
The veterans movement is for every veteran. Our diversity is our strength. We are a community that welcomes everyone, of every background, time period, and discharge status. The veterans movement is not for veterans alone. Our success is America’s success. We believe everyone can do something to help.
Many have come before us. From The Revolutionary War to the present day, every generation of veterans and allies before us have served, sacrificed, and paved the way. Many had it much tougher than we have it now. They broke down barriers so we could succeed. We learn from and respect the history of our elders. We never forget those who came before us, those who were lost, and those who will follow us.
Our work is not about us as individuals. Success is a team game. We eat last, raise our hand first, and are always here to serve and lead. We will always put our community and our mission before ourselves. Everyone is a leader: a servant leader. We believe true leadership requires following and supporting others.
We can’t do everything. Staying focused and achieving greatness requires tremendous discipline. It also often means saying no to many things, so we can say yes to a few — and do them well. If we take something on, we make sure it’s worth it. Once we do, we give it our all and crush it.
Every day is a chance to make a difference. For every one of us. What we do changes lives and changes history. We are committed to rising to that challenge, to accepting the responsibility of leadership and to making a difference. Pressure is a privilege, and we respect and appreciate that privilege always. We’re not passive. We get after it! We don’t wait for the change we seek, we make it happen.
The work we do is hard. Sometimes incredibly hard. It takes tremendous effort, energy and heart. So we make fun a priority. We don’t take ourselves too seriously and we always think of others. Nobody wants to work with a jerk. So we keep it cool. Music, food and sports are connective tissue for our movement. We share our passions and successes, and we remember morale is everyone’s responsibility. We always keep in mind a member or colleague could be having an incredibly tough day, that we can make better. We find ways to keep it fun and we and our movement are stronger for it.
America’s veterans, who have defended democracy abroad, are increasingly concerned about its state at home, with 74% of IAVA veterans dissatisfied. Their voices are crucial in addressing this urgent issue.
Repeal or Reform of the 2001 and 2002 Authorizations of Military Force
Afghan allies who risked their lives for U.S. troops need our support. With a significant majority of veterans urging action, it’s crucial to fix the Special Immigrant Visa system and honor our commitments.
Veterans are increasingly seeking alternatives to traditional treatments like opioids. With strong support for both cannabis and psychedelics, it’s time for national policy changes to provide these options.
As gender equality demands equal responsibilities, many veterans believe women should be required to register for the Selective Service. It’s time to align national policies with this call for shared sacrifice.
With 72% of IAVA veterans believing more should be done to support Afghan allies, it’s clear that fixing the Special Immigrant Visa system is crucial. Ensuring that we honor our promises and provide refuge for those who risked their lives for us is vital for national security and the well-being of our veteran community.
The Supreme Court’s decision has impacted reproductive care for veterans and their families. A majority of veterans support expanded access to care, highlighting ongoing needs in the wake of recent changes.
