1. United States
2. Okla.
3. Letter

The Veterans Affairs department has dismissed over 2,400 employees in recent weeks, claiming to redirect funds towards healthcare, benefits, and services for veterans. However, these terminations have already impaired the VA's ability to serve veterans effectively. Cutting critical staff, including those in diversity, equity, and inclusion roles, is detrimental to providing comprehensive and equitable care. Veterans have honorably served our nation, and they deserve better than having their trusted support systems dismantled. These arbitrary firings disrespect the service of veterans and military spouses employed by the VA, unjustly upending their lives and careers. Such actions erode the trust veterans place in the department meant to support them. Instead of indiscriminate cuts, the VA should prioritize robust hiring and training initiatives to build a strong workforce dedicated to serving all veterans with excellence. Veterans have sacrificed for our country, and we must uphold our commitment to providing them with the highest quality care and services they have earned. Redirect funds towards strengthening, not diminishing, the VA's ability to fulfill its core mission.