On June 7, 2025, thousands of veterans and supporters gathered at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., for the “Unite for Veterans, Unite for America” rally, a powerful protest against the Trump administration’s policies targeting the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Coinciding with the 81st anniversary of D-Day, the event drew veterans from across the country, united in their fight to protect their benefits, jobs, and dignity, which they claim are under threat.
Organized by the Unite for Veterans coalition, the rally opposed plans to cut up to 83,000 VA jobs and terminate hundreds of community service contracts. Veterans like Lela Bell, a former Army sergeant from Pennsylvania, voiced concerns about the privatization of the VA, which could erode the quality of healthcare and benefits for millions of former service members. “I believe the Trump administration wants to privatize the VA. I’m here to defend the services veterans deserve,” Bell said, holding a sign decrying the cuts.
Speakers, including Senator Tammy Duckworth, a combat-wounded National Guard lieutenant colonel, fiercely criticized Trump’s policies, calling the proposed “One Big, Beautiful Bill” a “slap in the face to heroes.” Punk rock band Dropkick Murphys energized the crowd with their new song “Who’ll Stand With Us?”, highlighting perceived injustices. Banners reading “Respect, Honor, Pay Veterans” and “Support the VA, Not Handouts, It’s Duty” dotted the Mall.
The Trump administration and VA countered that the cuts aim to eliminate administrative waste without impacting healthcare services. However, rally organizers, including Chris Purdy of the Chamberlain Network, emphasized that the protest was about defending veterans’ rights, not targeting Trump personally. The D.C. event is one of over 200 nationwide, showcasing a unified front among veterans and advocates against controversial changes.
As tensions rise, the rally underscores deep divisions over the future of veterans’ care. Protesters vowed to continue their fight, with many planning to lobby Congress to block the proposed cuts. The National Mall, a historic site for American demonstrations, once again served as a powerful backdrop for veterans demanding their voices be heard in this ongoing battle for their hard-earned benefits.
