President Trump Proclaims Captive Nations Week 2025, Reaffirms Support for Oppressed
On July 25, 2025, President Donald Trump officially proclaimed July 20-26, 2025, as Captive Nations Week, a long-standing annual observance in the United States. This proclamation reaffirms the US government's solidarity with, and support for, individuals and populations worldwide living under totalitarian regimes.
What is Captive Nations Week?
Origin: Captive Nations Week was established by Public Law 86-90, a joint resolution approved by the U.S. Congress on July 17, 1959. It was signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower during the height of the Cold War.
Initial Purpose: Its original purpose was to raise public awareness of the Soviet Union's control over Eastern European countries and its support for communist regimes globally. It served as a symbolic act of resistance against communist expansion and and a declaration of America's resolve to defend fundamental human rights like free speech, religious liberty, and self-government.
Evolution: While the Soviet Empire no longer exists, the observance continues to be relevant. Today, it aims to support people living under various forms of authoritarian and non-democratic governments worldwide. Every successive U.S. President has issued a proclamation designating the third week of July as Captive Nations Week.
Activities: The week encourages Americans to observe it with appropriate ceremonies and activities, demonstrating America's support for those who seek national independence, liberty, and human rights. Diasporas from undemocratic countries often participate in events to draw attention to human rights issues in their homelands.
President Trump's 2025 Proclamation:
In his 2025 proclamation for Captive Nations Week, President Trump delivered a message that emphasizes several key points:
Heartfelt Support for the Oppressed: He offered "heartfelt support to every person living under a totalitarian regime" and reaffirmed his commitment to "advancing a new era of peace where freedom is cherished, sovereignty is respected, and every nation can live without fear of tyranny or oppression."
Continued Fight Against Oppression: The proclamation acknowledges that "far too often, oppressive regimes still silence dissent and persecute their own citizens for practicing their faith."
Foundational Beliefs: He reiterated the American principle that "our rights do not come from Government, but from God in Heaven," and that "legitimate governments derive their power from the consent of the governed and that freedom of religion forms the foundation of free Government."
Global Leadership and Diplomacy: President Trump stated his administration's commitment to working for a more stable and peaceful world through "strong diplomacy, resolve conflicts, and forge lasting peace everywhere." He emphasized that "America stands with all people who resist tyranny, defend their faith, and fight for the God-given rights of every human being."
Call to Action: He called upon all Americans to "reaffirm our commitment to supporting those around the world striving for liberty, justice, and the rule of law with appropriate ceremonies and activities."
The proclamation highlights the enduring commitment of the United States to promoting freedom and democracy globally, regardless of the specific forms of oppression. It serves as a symbolic gesture of hope and solidarity for those who continue to struggle for basic human rights and self-determination.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News
