Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) announced the reintroduction of a resolution supporting the naming of new or undedicated U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities after women veterans and minority veterans.
“Since the Revolutionary War, millions of women and minorities have served in our Armed Forces. They have served in every role – from infantry soldiers to cyber warfare engineers. Yet, their service and sacrifice have often been overlooked,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “Naming VA facilities after these veterans would be a symbolic step to show appreciation for the courage, patriotism, and sacrifice that these veterans have demonstrated in defense of our country. It would also serve as an important reminder that we still have much work to do to ensure equity in care and benefits for all veterans.”
Background
As of January 2025, only 16 out of over 1,700 VA healthcare facilities across the country have been dedicated to minority veterans, and only four to women veterans.
The VA Advisory Committee on Women Veterans has recommended more inclusive naming practices for VA facilities to demonstrate that women veterans’ service matters. While the VA has acknowledged this recommendation and recently adjusted its motto to reflect the service of women veterans, it remains up to Congress to pass legislation to formally name these facilities.
Currently, the names of VA facilities are designated through legislation, honoring distinguished veterans or individuals who have made significant contributions to supporting veterans. The bill must have support from the state’s delegation and relevant veterans’ organizations. This resolution expresses support for efforts to name more VA facilities after women veterans and minority veterans.
Read the full text of the resolution here.
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Issues: 119th Congress, Veterans' Affairs, Women Veterans Task Force