Spear

We Are Public Servants, Not Pawns

• USAID is a force for good in the world—each of you has dedicated your life to making America and the world a better place. Every day, through your work, you strengthen America’s security, economy, and leadership.
• I am a diplomat. I have sworn an oath to the Constitution, not to billionaires or political operatives.
• I refuse to be ordered to throw my oath of office in the trash by an unelected oligarch or his cronies.
• We serve the American people, not the whims of unconfirmed political appointees who think they can dismantle our agency through backroom deals and illegal orders.

This Order is Unlawful, and We Must Refuse to Comply

• The individuals giving this directive have not been confirmed by the Senate and may not have the legal authority to issue such an order.
• USAID and State Department policy do not allow for forced departure under these circumstances—this directive is a direct violation of standing regulations.
• Following unlawful orders is not duty—it is complicity. We must uphold the law, not be bullied into breaking it.

The Military Is Trained to Recognize and Resist Illegal Orders, we are no different

• In cases of constitutional crisis, the military does not act until the courts determine the legality of an order—this is a principle of the rule of law and democratic governance.
• The same applies here: until the judiciary has ruled on the legality of this order, we must refuse to comply.

Collective Refusal is the Most Lawful and Ethical Course of Action

• Individually, we may feel powerless. Together, we can uphold the law.
• If we comply without legal review, we may set a dangerous precedent that weakens due process and opens the door to more illegal actions.
• Forced departure is not just an employment issue—it disrupts families, diplomatic relations, and national security efforts.

The Risks of Compliance Are Greater Than the Risks of Resistance

• If we comply and this order is later ruled unlawful, we will have enabled an illegal act with no recourse.
• If we refuse collectively, we force the administration to prove the legality of their order in court before irreparable harm is done.
• Compliance may expose us to personal legal liability if this action is later deemed unconstitutional or in violation of federal employment law.

We Must Demand Due Process

• The U.S. legal system exists to prevent arbitrary or politically motivated actions against civil servants.
• We are not refusing legitimate orders—we are demanding legal clarity.
• Our duty is to the Constitution and the American people, not to temporary officials acting outside their authority.

Call to Action

• Refuse to leave until the legality of this order is adjudicated.
• Demand written, legally justified orders from confirmed officials.
• Coordinate with legal experts, unions, and oversight bodies to ensure our response is lawful and effective.
• If you are being pressured, document everything—unlawful coercion is itself an illegal act.