Working To Support Our Troops
A Note from Congressman Carson
Dear Friend:
From time to time I reflect upon our constitution and how the Founding Fathers believed the safeguards written into it would protect our rights as Americans. Among others, we are guaranteed the freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and the freedom to bear arms. As your representative in Washington, I take a great deal of pride in protecting your rights and freedoms.
One of the ways I do this is as a Member of the House Armed Services Committee, where I have an opportunity to work every day on behalf of our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines and their families who are on the front lines of this fight to protect the rights and freedoms we hold dear. This important committee is responsible for overseeing all of our military policy and spending priorities, including everything from the war in Afghanistan to weapons program funding to training and benefits for our troops. The committee allows me to closely monitor the decision making process on military engagements around the world and policies effecting the safety and well-being of our service members at home and abroad.
I am privileged to sit on two subcommittees, through which I delve more deeply into certain critical issues. The Subcommittee on Strategic Forces oversees nuclear weapons policy, nonproliferation, and missile defense and attempts to ensure they remain both are safe and cost effective. The Subcommittee on Intelligence, Emerging Threats, and Capabilities oversees military intelligence efforts, counter terrorism, Special Forces, cyber security, and the development of new technologies, all of which help to prepare our military for the unique engagements of the future.
Since being named to the committee, my first priority has been bringing our remaining troops home from Afghanistan. This not only means pushing for an end to the war but also ensuring our troops receive the equipment and training they need to stay safe. Within Indiana, I work tirelessly to protect defense infrastructure, promote defense industry jobs, encourage our best and brightest students to pursue military careers, and improve mental health services for Hoosier veterans to ensure they can live a fruitful lives after their service.
Currently, Congress is looking to complete its annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) process, which dictates military policy for the coming year. One of the timeliest issues is how we address sexual assault—a heinous crime that remains far too common. I was proud to support changes like setting minimum sentencing guidelines for those found guilty of sexual assault or related crimes. As Congress attempts to pass complete this bill over the next few weeks, I will continue to push for these long-overdue changes to reach the President's desk.
It is an honor to serve on the House Armed Services Committee. Knowing that my work ensures a better life for our troops abroad and those who are returning home is a great source of pride for me. If you have any questions about my work on this committee or on behalf of our service members and veterans please feel free to reach out to us.
Sincerely,
André
Inside Scoop
Farewell Madiba: Remembering Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela
We join the world in mourning the loss of an extraordinary man. On December 5, 2013, the day of Nelson Mandela's passing, Congressman Carson released the following statement:
"With the death of Nelson Mandela, we have lost one the greatest leaders in the advancement of equality and human rights. Mandela led an extraordinary effort to defeat apartheid through non-violence and peace."
"Today we lost a bright beacon of hope and equality for all people. Nelson Mandela's peaceful struggle against apartheid inspired a nation to stand against oppression. Let us honor his legacy of peace and justice through our actions each and every day. We should strive to live by his example."
Little People, Big Challenge: Incarceration
What's the big challenge? The U.S. continues to lead the world in the rate of incarceration with over 2.3 million people behind bars. This is a huge number, but unfortunately it's only a fraction of the people impacted. More than half of these individuals have children 18 years or younger – the little people.
This is an issue that deserves our attention. Studies consistently show that young people with an incareated parent experience mental health, social development and academic challenges. Many of these children are dealing with feelings of guilt, abandonment, and embarrassment but have no one to support them. This week, Congressman Carson joined Volunteers of America and the creators of Sesame Street to bring awareness to this pressing issue. Briefings were held on Capitol Hill and in Indianapolis to pass out the Little People, Big Challenges toolkits for caregivers and service providers serving kids with incarcepated parents. Local Indy partners in this effort include Volunteers of America in Indianapolis, WFYI, U.S. Attorney Joe Hogsett's office, Judge Salinas with Marion County's Reentry Court, and MCCOY.
Congressman Carson was eager to be a part of the initiative stated, "As a former member of the law enforcement community, I understand the impact over incarceration has on our society and on the children of those we incarcerate. This is one of the most important issues of our time, and our ability to support these young people is reflective of who we are as a society.
"I would like to applaud Volunteers of America, The Annie E. Casey Foundation, and the Sesame Workshop for bringing much needed attention to the children of incarcerated parents."
Lights, Camera, Action!
The White House has announce its first ever Student Film Festival! K-12 students from across the Nation are invited to enter the video contest with films that highlight the power of technology in schools. Finalists will have their short films shown at the White House and may also be featured on the White House website, YouTube channel, and social media pages.
For more information visit https://www.whitehouse.gov/filmfestival