Washington, D.C.—Today, as the United States celebrates Independence Day, Bishop Garrison, Director of Veterans for American Ideals issued the following statement:

"The Fourth of July is a special day of the year for veterans. It is a time when we celebrate country and community with family and friends, and we honor the leaders—civilian and military alike—who forged this nation.

Yet, Independence Day is not just a moment to celebrate our country, but the freedom it was founded upon. That freedom is what drove many of us to put on the uniform, it’s what makes our fellow citizens proud to be American, and it’s what makes people from around the world risk everything to come to the United States.

That freedom, however, feels tarnished this year when a show of military superiority on the National Mall outweighs the plight of vulnerable asylum seekers detained on our southern border.

Regardless of status, the United States cannot mistreat innocent children, nor deny families basic rights, nor detain people in deplorable conditions. To do so is an affront to the values of those who founded this country.

Independence Day should be a celebration, but it also should serve as a clarion call that we must stand with all who yearn for freedom."

For more information, or to speak with Garrison, contact Christopher Plummer at [email protected] or 202-370-3310.