1. United States
2. Wisc.
3. Letter

The recent changes to the Department of Veterans Affairs' hospital bylaws are deeply concerning. Removing explicit protections against discrimination based on political beliefs, marital status, and other characteristics undermines the fundamental principle of providing equal care to all eligible veterans. Healthcare should be provided solely on the basis of medical need, without regard for personal attributes or ideological views. We urge you to take immediate action to reinstate comprehensive non-discrimination guidelines within the VA healthcare system. Allowing any form of discriminatory treatment compromises the integrity of the VA's mission and jeopardizes the well-being of the very individuals it is meant to serve. Our nation's veterans have sacrificed immensely, and they deserve to receive the highest quality of care without fear of bias or prejudice. Protecting the rights and dignity of all veterans, regardless of their background or beliefs, is not only a moral imperative but also a legal obligation. The VA must uphold its commitment to serving every veteran fairly and equitably. Any policies or practices that enable discrimination are unacceptable and must be swiftly addressed. We call on you to take decisive action to safeguard the principles of inclusivity, equality, and non-discrimination within the VA healthcare system. Our veterans have earned and deserve nothing less.