In a significant move welcomed by conservatives and faith-based communities, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has launched a new internal task force to investigate claims of Christian faith discrimination within the agency. Backed strongly by Secretary Doug Collins and the Trump administration, this initiative signals a clear return to protecting religious liberty—specifically the rights of Christians—in public institutions.
Secretary Collins called on VA employees to “report any instances of hostility toward the faith,” encouraging detailed accounts including “names, dates, and locations.” Allegations under review include denial of religious exemptions, punishment for displaying Christian symbols, and retaliation against staff who refused to participate in procedures that violate their conscience—such as abortion or hormone therapy.
The task force comes at a time when the VA is undergoing a major restructuring that may affect over 80,000 jobs, creating what some describe as an atmosphere of uncertainty. But Collins has made it clear: protecting faith is not negotiable. The administration’s position is reinforced by an inter-agency effort, led by Attorney General Pam Bondi, which aims to identify and root out “anti-Christian biases” across the federal government.
“The goal is to protect believers from systemic injustice,” Collins said, with specific concern for vaccine mandates, suppression of religious expression, and restrictions on Christian symbols in the workplace. Other departments, like the State Department, are following suit, implementing secure systems for reporting religious discrimination.
Christian and conservative organizations have praised the initiative as long overdue. But opponents on the left have criticized it. Rachel Laser of Americans United for Separation of Church and State warned the initiative could “turn into a pretext to legitimize discrimination and undermine civil rights laws.” Similarly, Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal accused the task force of jeopardizing government neutrality and favoring one religion over others.
Still, the administration remains resolute. The task force will operate for two years, reviewing policies and issuing recommendations, with a commitment to “strict, transparent, and respectful” oversight.
This effort comes at a time when the Christian majority in America—approximately 70% of the population—is facing increasing pressure from secular and progressive forces. With 43% identifying as Protestant and 20% as Catholic, Christians continue to represent the backbone of America’s religious heritage. The new initiative is a clear message: their voices and values still matter.
