Draft:AfghanEvac
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Introduction
AfghanEvac is a coalition, movement, and 501(c)(3) nonprofit formed in response to the U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021. The organization focuses on relocating and resettling Afghan allies and their families, leveraging public-private partnerships to ensure the U.S. upholds its commitments.
History
AfghanEvac was born during the chaos of the August 2021 Kabul airlift, when veterans, activists, diplomats, and volunteers united to assist Afghans left behind[1]. Initially a grassroots coalition, AfghanEvac rapidly developed into a long-term effort aimed at supporting safe evacuations and sustained advocacy for Afghan allies. With extensive coordination among the U.S. government and other non-governmental entities, AfghanEvac formalized into a nonprofit dedicated to continuing these critical efforts. The organization serves as a key link between public and private sectors, helping to streamline bureaucratic processes and create safe pathways for evacuees.[1][2]
The Coalition
AfghanEvac consists of a wide range of groups, including veteran organizations, refugee advocates, and non-profits, all collaborating to aid Afghans in need. The coalition plays a critical role in family reunification efforts, visa processing, and logistical support for evacuees. Through weekly meetings with the U.S. State Department and other stakeholders, AfghanEvac has become a central player in addressing the complexities of Afghan resettlement.[3]
The Organization
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, AfghanEvac is dedicated to improving the throughput of Afghan relocations and reducing uncertainty for families waiting for resettlement. The organization has also spearheaded public advocacy campaigns, pushing for reforms such as the Afghan Adjustment Act, which aims to provide a clear path to permanent residency for Afghan evacuees. AfghanEvac’s work is grounded in a public-private partnership model, where coordination with government bodies and advocacy groups allows for an ongoing commitment to refugee support.
The Movement
AfghanEvac has evolved into a movement that demands the U.S. government uphold its responsibilities to Afghan allies. Supported by veterans, human rights organizations, and advocates, AfghanEvac continues to push for both short-term solutions and long-term policy reforms. The movement has mobilized public support, particularly in advocating for the passage of the Afghan Adjustment Act.
Timeline and Key Wins
• August 2021: AfghanEvac forms during the Kabul airlift, helping coordinate evacuations and assisting Afghan families.
• Fall 2021: AfghanEvac establishes strong working relationships with government agencies to expedite the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) process.[4]
• 2022: The organization advocates for key legislative reforms, including efforts to simplify visa procedures. Drives administration to create family reunification portal. President Biden calls AfghanEvac founder Shawn VanDiver and AfghanEvac Coalition member Lyla Kohistany[5] Worked with Biden Administration (State Department and National Security Council) to establish Enduring Welcome, the policy related to ongoing Afghan Relocations.[6] Organized former senior military officials and diplomats in support of the Afghan Adjustment Act.[3][7]
• 2023: AfghanEvac continues to lead public advocacy for the Afghan Adjustment Act and provides ongoing logistical support for Afghan resettlement.
Leadership Team and Advisors
AfghanEvac’s leadership includes experienced veterans and advocates, as well as key advisors who have played important roles in U.S. policy and humanitarian work:
• Shawn VanDiver: Navy veteran and Founder of AfghanEvac, VanDiver has been instrumental in coordinating the coalition’s work with governmental agencies.
• Jessica Bradley Rushing: A key leader at AfghanEvac, founded the Congressional Caseworker group while working as veterans caseworker for Rep. Bill Keating (D-MA). Later went into U.S. government to work as Engagement and Analysis Director for Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts (CARE).
• March Bishop: A businesswoman and advocate, Bishop went into State Department in September 2021 to act as liaison between outside groups and U.S. government. Helped build CARE team.
• Anne Richard: Former Assistant Secretary of State for Population, Refugees, and Migration, Richard advises on resettlement and refugee policies.
• Colin Kahl: A former U.S. government official, Kahl provides strategic guidance on national security and foreign policy.
• Phil Kosnett: Former U.S. Ambassador to Uzbekistan, Kosnett advises AfghanEvac on diplomatic engagement and evacuation efforts.
Impact and Key Projects
• Pathways to Safety: AfghanEvac has helped establish secure routes for Afghans still seeking relocation, in collaboration with international and non-governmental partners.
• Misinformation Campaigns: The organization has actively worked to counter disinformation about Afghan evacuees through media outreach and public advocacy.
• Public Advocacy: AfghanEvac’s work with Congress has been critical in pushing for long-term legislative solutions, such as the Afghan Adjustment Act.
Challenges and Criticism
AfghanEvac has faced several challenges, including bureaucratic delays and a lack of clear policy from the U.S. government. Despite these setbacks, the organization remains committed to its mission, adapting its strategies to overcome obstacles and continuing to advocate for Afghan evacuees.
Conclusion
AfghanEvac is a leading force in ensuring that the U.S. fulfills its commitments to Afghan allies. Through its unique blend of grassroots advocacy, policy influence, and logistical coordination, AfghanEvac continues to push for comprehensive solutions for Afghan refugees.
References
[edit]- ^ a b Dyer, Andrew (2021-12-24). "Afghan evacuation effort earns White House support with help from San Diego veteran". San Diego Union-Tribune. Retrieved 2024-10-20.
- ^ "Veterans Leading Afghan Evacuations Demand Help From Biden, Congress". NBC 7 San Diego. 2021-12-06. Retrieved 2024-10-20.
- ^ a b Vandiver, Shawn (2022-07-01). "Americans, banding together to help Afghans, restored my faith in this country". San Diego Union-Tribune. Retrieved 2024-10-20.
- ^ "San Diego veteran helping Afghan nationals a year after Taliban takeover". ABC 10 News San Diego KGTV. 2022-08-16. Retrieved 2024-10-20.
- ^ MADHANI, AAMER (2022-08-30). "Biden calls veterans groups ahead of Afghanistan withdrawal anniversary". Los Angeles Times. Associated Press. Retrieved 2024-10-20.
- ^ Landay, Jonathan (2022-09-01). "U.S. to revise Afghan resettlement policy - U.S. official". Reuters. Retrieved 2024-10-20.
- ^ Lamothe, Dan (2022-12-18). "Retired military leaders press Congress to pass Afghan resettlement bill". The Washington Post.