FAQ

What is MFSO?

Military Families Speak Out is an organization of over 4,000 families across the US and around the world who are opposed to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and have a loved one currently serving in the military, who has served in the military since 9/11 or who has died as a result of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. As people with loved ones in the military, we have both a special need and a unique role to play in speaking out. It is our loved ones who are, have been, or will be on the battlefront. It is our loved ones who are risking injury and death. It is our loved ones who are returning scarred from their experiences. It is our loved ones who will have to live with the injuries and deaths among innocent Iraqi civilians.

Who is eligible to join?

You are eligible to join if you have a loved one or family member who has been in the military since September 11, 2001.

How do I become a member?

Send an email to mfso [at] mfso.org.

Is there a way to support the work of MFSO if I am not eligible to join?

Yes, you can support us in a variety of ways:

Become a friend of the family and stay updated with regular emails with opportunities to do more
Support our work with a financial contribution
Telling military families about our organization
Call your congresspersons with the message: “Bring the troops home now and take care of them when they get here”

Does it cost money to join MFSO?

Currently there are no membership dues to join MFSO. However, as a small, grassroots organization, we depend on donations from our members and supporters to do our work. We hope you will make a voluntary membership donation here.

My loved one believes in what s/he is doing. Can I still join?

Yes! We support and are proud of our loved ones in the military and their commitment to service. We are opposed to them being sent into conflicts that are less than worthy of their service and returning home to inadequate care. In some cases, our family members in the service may be conscientious objectors or speaking out against the wars themselves. Others believe in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and might even be opposed to what we do. But as one of our member’s son once said, “I believe in freedom of speech. As long as you keep sending me cookies, you can say what you want!”

Do I have to be public or speak to the press?

No. Our members are involved at every level of the organization, some publicly, some behind the scenes. Speaking out publicly is a courageous and powerful act that can inspire others, and we are here to support those members who wish to take that step. But it is completely up to you how, when, and if to take that step.

My loved one was in the military in that time frame, but never served in Iraq or Afghanistan, or is now out of the military. Can I be a member?

Yes! We need the participation of all our members. Even if your loved one never served in combat or is out of the military, you can contribute to the organization by communicating to your Representative, organizing or participating in a chapter, connecting with other military families, or lending a compassionate ear to another member who needs support.

How can I find MFSO members in my area?

Check out the list of MFSO chapters for a chapter near you. If there isn’t one, contact us at mfso@mfso.org to connect with other members in your area or for help starting a chapter.

There is no chapter in my area. What can I do?

If you are interested in starting a chapter or doing a local activity, we may be able to put you in touch with other members who can help you. We also work closely with other organizations such as Veterans For Peace, Iraq Veterans Against the War, Civilian Soldier Alliance, and United For Peace and Justice that you could bring an MFSO voice to. You can also participate as an individual member in online actions, working groups and conference calls. For more information about how to get involved, contact mfso@mfso.org.