President Affirms Commitment to Advancing Peace & Freedom in Proclamation
WASHINGTON, July 25, 2025 — In a reaffirmation of America’s historic stand for liberty, President Donald J. Trump issued a presidential proclamation declaring July 20–26 as Captive Nations Week. The annual observance, originally established in 1959 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, honors those living under totalitarian regimes and highlights the United States’ ongoing commitment to defending freedom around the world.
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“This Captive Nations Week, I offer my heartfelt support to every person living under a totalitarian regime,” said President Trump in his proclamation. “I reaffirm my commitment to advancing a new era of peace where freedom is cherished, sovereignty is respected, and every nation can live without fear of tyranny or oppression.”
Our rights do not come from Government, but from God in Heaven, – President Trump
Referencing America’s enduring values, Trump underscored that “our rights do not come from Government, but from God in Heaven,” and declared that “freedom of religion forms the foundation of free Government.”
The President praised the work of the Religious Liberty Commission, the White House Faith Office, and the Department of State’s Office of International Religious Freedom, which are “working together to expand and strengthen America’s efforts to defend religious freedom around the world.”
He also emphasized the role of the United States as a global leader for human dignity: “America stands with all people who resist tyranny, defend their faith, and fight for the God-given rights of every human being.”
In line with the Congressional resolution authorizing Captive Nations Week, Trump called on Americans to commemorate the week with “appropriate ceremonies and activities” to honor those who suffer under oppression and to inspire continued support for liberty across the globe.
The official proclamation concluded:
“NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America… do hereby proclaim July 20 through July 26, 2025, as Captive Nations Week.”
