Fired USAID workers send message to Trump on boxes while leaving office for last time
Former United States Agency for International Development (USAID) staffers bid farewell to their Washington, D.C., offices for the last time on Friday, carrying boxes with poignant messages directed at President Donald Trump, who is drastically reducing the agency’s workforce. The mass layoffs, which were initially challenged in court, have now been given the green light to proceed by a federal judge.
As thousands of staffers were informed weeks ago about their impending dismissals, emotions ran high on the final day as employees packed up their belongings. Some boxes were adorned with messages such as “We are abandoning the world” and “You can take the humanitarians out of USAID but you can’t take the humanity out of the humanitarians.” The scene outside the USAID offices was a mix of sadness and defiance, with some workers leaving in tears while others flashed defiant smiles.
Supporters and former USAID workers gathered outside the offices to show their appreciation for the departing staffers, carrying signs that read “We love USAID” and “Thank you for your service, USAID.” The Trump administration’s plan to drastically reduce the agency’s workforce to less than 300 employees out of the current 8,000 direct hires and contractors has sparked controversy and criticism.
USAID has faced scrutiny for alleged wasteful spending under the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Senator Joni Ernst highlighted questionable projects funded by USAID, including a $20 million Sesame Street show in Iraq and funding to a Gaza-based charity with alleged ties to terrorism. The administration’s decision to slash foreign aid and appoint Secretary of State Marco Rubio as the acting director of USAID has further fueled debate and legal challenges.
Despite efforts by government employee unions to halt the layoffs, U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols lifted a temporary restraining order and declined to intervene in the mass dismissals. The judge cited jurisdictional issues and emphasized that the matter should be handled through administrative channels rather than federal court.
As the affected employees grapple with the sudden loss of their jobs, the unions may seek emergency relief from the Washington, D.C., federal appeals court to reinstate the temporary restraining order. The future of USAID and its workforce remains uncertain as the agency undergoes significant restructuring under the Trump administration.
In conclusion, the departure of USAID staffers marks a significant turning point for the agency and its humanitarian efforts around the world. The ongoing debate over the agency’s future and funding reflects broader tensions within the federal government and raises questions about the role of international aid in U.S. foreign policy.
