Captive Nations Week Proclamation

On July 25, 2025, President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation designating the week of July 20 through July 26 as Captive Nations Week. This annual observance, first established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1959, aims to highlight the struggles faced by people living under oppressive regimes and to reaffirm America’s commitment to promoting freedom and human rights globally. The proclamation encourages all Americans to participate in activities that support those striving for liberty and justice worldwide.

In the proclamation, President Trump expressed solidarity with individuals suffering under totalitarian governments, emphasizing the need for religious liberty and self-governance. He noted the ongoing efforts of various U.S. government entities, including the Religious Liberty Commission and the Department of State’s Office of International Religious Freedom, to safeguard these rights internationally. The President reiterated the belief that rights come from a higher power rather than the government, reinforcing the fundamental principles of free speech and religious freedom as essential components of democracy.

The President’s message underscores the United States’ commitment to engaging in diplomacy and conflict resolution to achieve lasting peace and stability. He called for unity among Americans in supporting those who resist tyranny and defend their rights while pledging to continue leading efforts to advance human dignity around the globe. This proclamation serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for freedom and the importance of standing in solidarity with those who seek justice.

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