Established by Public Law 103-446, §509in 1994, Title 38, United States Code (USC), §317. Center for Minority Veterans

Who We Serve

The Center for Minority Veterans (CMV) was established by Public Law 103-446, in 1994. Title 38, United States Code (USC), Section 317 reflects the current responsibilities of the CMV. The Center Director serves as principal advisor to the Secretary on the adoption and implementation of policies and programs affecting minority Veterans. CMV serves as an advocate for minority Veterans by conducting outreach activities to promote the awareness and use of VA benefits and services.

Our Mission

Ensure all Veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors receive the world-class healthcare, benefits, and memorial services they have earned and deserve.

Our Vision

Enable all Veterans to fully access and utilize VA benefits through effective outreach and engagement.

Our Activities

• The Director serves as primary advisor to the Secretary on Department policies, programs, and legislation that affect minority Veterans.

• Make recommendations to the Secretary, Under Secretary for Health, Under Secretary for Benefits, Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs and other Department officials for the establishment or improvement of programs in the Department for eligible minority Veterans.

• Promote the use of VA benefits and services through outreach activities and through consultation and collaboration with Federal, state and local agencies and organizations, and non-government partners.

• Evaluate current programs and make recommendations on how VA can better serve minority Veterans.

• Disseminate information and serve as a resource center for information regarding innovative/ successful programs which improve services available to minority Veterans, their family, and advocates.

• Highlight minority Veterans’ military service and contributions by sponsoring activities and special events and ensuring that communications channels and assets portray and highlight minority Veterans through images, messages, and branding.

• Monitor and coordinate with internal VA offices to ensure access for Veterans, families, caregivers, and survivors, with the world-class healthcare, benefits, and memorial services they have earned and deserve.

• Conduct, sponsor, and/or promote appropriate social and demographic research on the needs of minority Veterans, as well as encouraging minority Veterans’ participation in research.

• Publicize the results of medical research which are of particular significance to Veterans who are minorities.

• Manage and coordinate the Advisory Committee on Minority Veterans activities.