Learn more about our history of racial injustice.

Dr. Kyleanne Hunter, former Marine Corps attack pilot and CEO of Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans of America, says “women are the fastest growing group of veterans” and “the fastest growing group of people in the military.” But over the past seven months, the Department of Defense has removed top female officers from leadership roles. The rationale behind many of the removals is unclear, but The New York Times reports they were dismissed as part of a campaign to root out diversity, equity and inclusion from the military since Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth arrived at the Pentagon. Hunter says the idea that women are somehow less qualified to serve is absurd. “Throughout military history, going back almost 250 years in this country, women have been serving shoulder to shoulder beside men,” she said. “And they have done this because of their qualifications, because of their ability to achieve.” She added that indicating otherwise, “unfortunately, perpetuates a politicized narrative for women who just raised their hand to serve.”

What makes America unique is not just that we hold elections-- plenty of nations do. What has made America exceptional, when we live up to it, is our origin story: rebellion against tyranny. That maverick spirit is embedded in our national DNA. At the core of the American idea is a simple but revolutionary belief--- one that kings and tyrants throughout history have tried to crush: that anyone, no matter their name, birth, or background, can rise above their circumstances. That’s the promise. That’s the American ethos. And although our moral compass has had to be recalibrated again and again since this nation's inception to actually extend that promise to all Americans, it’s why people across the globe continue to risk everything to reach our shores.