On April 18, 1979, a band of veterans, from the battlefields of WWII and the jungles of Vietnam, embarked on a transformative journey that would reshape history...
On April 18, 1979, a band of veterans, from the battlefields of WWII and the jungles of Vietnam, embarked on a transformative journey that would reshape history...
Their Mission
…was born from the harsh reality that for most of their comrades returning home from combat, there loomed widespread racism, unemployment, absence of quality medical care and the challenge of reintegrating into a society that often misunderstood their struggles and disregarded their sacrifices. Soldiers, who had once worn the uniform with pride, were now navigating a world that seemed both unfamiliar and unsupportive.
It is from here that BVSJ emerged not only as a veterans service organization but as a beacon of hope and a fixture in the community. As soldiers dealt with the invisible scars of combat and the deadly effects of the toxin Agent Orange, Black Veterans for Social Justice provided the camaraderie that so many of our heroes missed. As the years passed, a new generation of veterans would face similar battles and BVSJ would be there to provide the resources, offering not only services but tender loving care and a listening ear.
45 years of service
to veterans & the community
As we celebrate 45 years of service to veterans and the community, we aren’t just reflecting on our past accomplishments; we’re setting our sights on the future. Our Be Historic campaign is more than a commemoration — it’s a call to action for all of us to be architects of change. Just as our founders did over four decades ago, we invite you to join us as we continue to make history by re-shaping the future for those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedoms. We believe that small actions can have monumental influence and together we can empower change. From community projects to simple acts of kindness, your actions can shape a brighter, more compassionate world.
Our Founder
Job Mashariki, founder, former President, and CEO of Black Veterans for Social Justice, Inc., has guided the organization through 30 years of service to veterans, their families, and the community. As a father, husband, businessman and community activist, he committed his life and resources to becoming a voice for the underprivileged and underrepresented, specifically veterans of color. Born in Bedford Stuyvesant in 1943, Job is esteemed for his academia, including a Master’s from the City University of New York, and he is also a graduate of the Columbia University School of Business Executive Program.
His dedication and leadership to providing community and veterans services have made him one of the most important figures of our generation. As one of the founding members of Medgar Evers College, he always believed that education and opportunity were the key components for community development.
