• photo of multiple people standing behind a banner they are holding up that says "Vets For Climate Justice."
  • image of a woman holding a sign that says "Honor Your Oath"

Our Mission

Common Defense Education Fund exists to empower veterans and the broader military community to transform our society through veteran training programs, community education, advocacy campaigns, and more.

Our Vision

We envision a world free of structural violence where everyday people are civically engaged in the decisions that impact their lives.

We see a grassroots movement of veteran leaders united at the forefront of struggles to foster an inclusive democracy where liberty and justice truly exist for all. 

Our values

  • EQUITY

    Rooted in history we reckon with the past and strive to uphold dignity, fairness, and respect in our relationships with everyone.

  • PROGRESS

    Fueled by love and unwavering optimism in the face of oppression and violence we are committed to building a better future. 

  • JUSTICE

    We believe accountability is core to achieving peace and prioritize being in solidarity with directly impacted communities. 

  • POWER

    Knowing our shared interests we choose to gather our collective strength and counter the cynicism of corruption and patronage. 

Veteran Stories

Veterans and their families from every walk of life and every era of service have found a political home here at Common Defense. Here’s just a few of those stories.

Ways To Get Involved

Ready to make a difference and stand alongside veterans and military families fighting for our communities? Here’s some easy next steps:

Get Involved with us

Whether you’re a civilian, veteran, or military family member, your voice matters in the fight for our democracy. Join us today!

Donate to fund veteran Organizing

Whether you can give $5 or $500, we need your support in our work to save veteran healthcare, push back against authoritarianism and hate, and protect democracy. Help fuel our fight for Liberty and Justice for all.