Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar and Congressman Jeff Hurd have introduced H.R. 6540, known as the “Anti-Communism Week Act.” The proposed legislation seeks to designate the first week of every November as Anti-Communism Week and calls for an annual presidential proclamation to honor victims of communist regimes around the world. This initiative follows President Trump’s 2025 proclamation establishing Anti-Communism Week.
Rep. Salazar highlighted the significance of recognizing the historical impact of communist governments and promoting awareness among younger generations. “Communism has left a trail of death, suffering, and shattered nations across the globe, from Cuba to China, from Venezuela to North Korea,” said Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar. “Too many Americans, especially in our schools, are now dangerously unaware of the real history and real horrors behind these failed systems. That’s why I’m proud to lead the Anti-Communism Week bill, which formally designates a week when we will reaffirm America’s commitment to freedom, educate our youth about the deadly consequences of communist ideology, and honor the memory of the tens of millions who have died under it. If we lose sight of history, we risk repeating it. This week isn’t just symbolic, it’s a necessary stand for liberty and truth.”
Rep. Jeff Hurd also spoke on his personal connection to the issue through his wife’s experience escaping communist Slovakia: “Communism is a destructive ideology that has been proven to fail time and time again. For decades, we’ve seen countless countries fall to regimes that sought to erase personal freedoms and suppress opposition,” said Rep. Hurd. “I’m proud to co-lead this important legislation to designate an anti-communism week and reaffirm it as an incompatible ideology with American values. My wife Barbora escaped communist Slovakia, so this issue is deeply personal to me and my family. We must never forget the lessons of history and remain vigilant in defending freedom and democracy.”
In the Senate, companion legislation is being led by Senators Rick Scott and Marsha Blackburn. Senator Scott stated: “Communism is one of the most destructive and deadly ideologies in human history, responsible for the suffering and deaths of millions while crushing freedom wherever it takes hold,” said Senator Rick Scott. “As a nation founded on liberty and individual freedoms, we must never forget these horrors or allow dangerous ideals to be repackaged, idealized, or sold to future generations. Designating Anti-Communism Week serves as a reminder of this evil ideology and reaffirms America’s unwavering commitment to freedom and opportunity for all.”
Senator Blackburn added: “Communism has claimed over 100 million lives by suppressing freedom, erasing faith, and destroying the prosperity that comes from hard work,” said Senator Marsha Blackburn. “The Anti-Communism Week Act would designate November 2 through 8 as a time to honor those victims, stand firm for liberty, and ensure this destructive ideology ends up on the ash heap of history.”
The bill lists several co-sponsors in addition to Rep. Hurd: Rep. Claudia Tenney, Rep. Daniel Webster, Rep. Andrew Ogles, Rep. Christopher Smith, Rep. Vern Buchanan, Rep. Carlos Gimenez, Rep. Gus Bilirakis, Rep. Don Bacon, Rep. Robert Aderholt, Rep. Addison McDowell, Rep. Mike Haridopolos, Rep. Wesley Hunt, Rep. Ronny Jackson, Rep. Tim Moore,and Rep.Michael Lawler.
A full version of H.R 6540 can be accessed online.