U.S. Veterans Witness Nicaraguan Resilience and Solidarity Amidst Ongoing U.S. Hostility
A delegation of seven U.S. veterans, representing Veterans For Peace (VFP), embarked on a solidarity mission to Nicaragua in mid-March, offering a stark counter-narrative to the prevailing U.S. media portrayal of the Sandinista government. As the United States grapples with its own internal struggles, including rising authoritarianism and the erosion of social safety nets, the veterans’ visit highlighted the interconnectedness of global struggles and the importance of cross-border solidarity in challenging dominant narratives. VFP, a 40-year-old organization composed of former military members, aims to prevent U.S. intervention in other nations’ affairs. The delegation’s trip to Nicaragua served as an act of resistance against the persistent disinformation campaign that has misrepresented the Nicaraguan government and the realities of life for its citizens.
Nicaragua, a nation grappling with significant economic challenges, has a rich history of revolutionary struggle against U.S.-backed dictatorships and imperialism. Despite facing U.S.-imposed sanctions and limited resources, the Sandinista government has implemented policies focused on poverty reduction, free healthcare, and accessible education, demonstrating a commitment to prioritizing the needs of its people. The veterans witnessed firsthand the tangible impact of these policies, contrasting sharply with the declining social support systems in the United States, where corporate interests often overshadow human welfare. They observed flourishing universities in rural areas and healthcare facilities providing free services, a testament to the government’s dedication to inclusive development.
The delegation focused on Nicaragua’s remarkable progress in maternal healthcare, particularly its Casa Materna program. These community-based centers provide comprehensive care for high-risk pregnancies, including safe housing, education, and transportation to hospitals. The program has contributed to a substantial decline in maternal and infant mortality rates. This stands in stark contrast to the deteriorating maternal health outcomes in the U.S., particularly for women of color, where access to affordable and quality care is increasingly limited. The Nicaraguan model, centered on healthcare as a human right, provided the veterans with a powerful example of a system prioritizing human welfare.
Nicaragua’s ability to withstand U.S. economic warfare stems partly from its emphasis on food sovereignty and renewable energy. The country produces a significant portion of its food domestically and generates a majority of its energy from renewable sources, bolstering its resilience against external pressures. The veterans also witnessed Nicaragua’s commitment to free education, visiting vocational schools and colleges where young people are equipped with skills for the future. This emphasis on education stands in contrast to the challenges faced by many U.S. youth, who struggle with access to quality education and diminishing opportunities.
The delegation also delved into the complexities of the 2018 U.S.-backed coup attempt, often portrayed in Western media as a government crackdown on peaceful protests. The veterans, however, heard firsthand accounts challenging this narrative, describing violent mobs funded by U.S. intelligence agencies aiming to destabilize the Sandinista government. This highlighted the importance of seeking diverse perspectives and questioning mainstream media representations. The veterans met with Brian Willson, a fellow veteran and anti-war activist living in Nicaragua, further emphasizing the long history of U.S. intervention in the region and the importance of resisting such actions.
The delegation’s visit encompassed a range of other significant areas. They observed Nicaragua’s robust disaster response system, SINAPRED, which prioritizes vulnerable communities, contrasting with the often underfunded and privatized disaster relief efforts in the U.S. They were inspired by the energy and dedication of the Juventud Sandinista, the youth wing of the FSLN, who represent the future of Nicaraguan leadership. The veterans witnessed vibrant cultural performances showcasing Nicaragua’s rich artistic heritage, and explored the country’s deep commitment to gender equality, evident in its constitutional mandate for gender parity in political representation. They also visited the Ministry of Family, Youth, and Children (MIFAN), learning about Nicaragua’s comprehensive approach to family support and social services, a sharp contrast to the often fragmented and inadequate social safety net in the U.S. The delegation’s encounter with veteran activist and author, Dorothy Granada, further underscored the importance of individual contributions to social justice and healthcare access in Nicaragua. They discussed the country’s focus on women’s health and visited the Centro de Mujeres Ixchen, a clinic dedicated to comprehensive women’s healthcare, including reproductive health and support for victims of violence. Finally, the veterans learned of Nicaragua’s commitment to international law, particularly its support of Palestine and its legal challenges against countries complicit in human rights abuses.
The veterans’ trip to Nicaragua exemplified the power of international solidarity and the importance of challenging dominant narratives perpetuated by powerful interests. Their experiences highlighted the resilience of the Nicaraguan people in the face of ongoing US intervention, and offered valuable lessons for addressing social and political challenges within the United States. The delegation’s findings underscore the need for greater understanding and collaboration between peoples across borders in the pursuit of a more just and peaceful world. Their visit emphasized the crucial role of veteran activists in exposing the true costs of war and advocating for peace and justice both at home and abroad. The veterans will share their insights and experiences in a webinar with the Nicaragua Solidarity Coalition, contributing to broader public awareness and promoting further dialogue and action.