The Origins of Core Values USA

Core Values USA began in the hearts of Dana and Richard Wall following the November 5, 2024, election. In the days after, friends and acquaintances turned to them with growing concern about the direction of the country and questions about what they could do in response.

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Before Election Day, it seemed unthinkable that Donald Trump could return to office after his 2020 defeat and the events of January 6, 2021, when the U.S. Capitol was attacked as Congress certified the election results.

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As a practicing attorney, Richard recognized a deepening disconnect between America’s founding principles—especially the Rule of Law—and how people were voting. Many around them were seeking a space to learn, reflect, and determine how to respond to what was unfolding.

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In response, Dana and Richard envisioned Core Values USA: not as another activist organization, but as a nonpartisan movement to educate, equip, and empower Americans. Their goal was to help people become agents of change through understanding the foundational values of Freedom, Democracy, and the Rule of Law.

 

Richard was especially clear: these principles must rise above partisanship. He also believed the nation was already in a Constitutional crisis—and that action could not wait. In his original draft, he wrote:

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Core Values USA is dedicated to protecting the basic values that are shared by all Americans and are enshrined in the United States Constitution.  We believe in fairness and equality under law - no one, not even elected leaders, should be above the law.  We also believe that government's main job is to keep its people safe and free, and that real political power belongs to the people through fair and democratic systems.

 

We believe the United States is facing a true constitutional crisis as some people break the rules to gain political power for their own benefit.  We don't support or oppose any political party or candidate.  Our focus is on making sure the United States remains a democratic republic in which all citizens, not just the rich and powerful, have a voice. 

 

We welcome anyone who believes in the values that bring us together as Americans.  If you're ready to stand up for those values and help pass them on to future generations, we encourage you to join us.   

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Few outside his close circle of family and friends knew that Richard was quietly battling a congenital heart defect—only recently diagnosed after a few years of unexplained health setbacks. Knowing time was precious, Richard poured his energy into bringing Core Values USA to life: forming the organization, establishing leadership, and laying out a plan for its future.

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Just three days after the first official meeting—attended by more than 60 people—Core Values USA was in motion. The structure was set. A leadership team was in place. And then, suddenly and unexpectedly, Richard passed away at home on March 26, 2025.

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His final message to all of us still guides the work ahead: “We welcome anyone who believes in the values that bring us together as Americans. If you're ready to stand up for those values and help pass them on to future generations, we encourage you to join us.”

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Learn more about Richard Wall here: