I have been a creator and producer on numerous international projects, many of which have been funded by USAID. I have worked in South Sudan and Iraq on initiatives designed to introduce ideas around democracy and co-existence to youth. I have worked in the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya on an entrepreneurial initiative designed to help youth become economically self-sufficient and independent of foreign aid.

USAID works by facilitating Americans to share their expertise to help others lead more independent lives. It’s a critical mission that ends with the tagline “From the American People.” And that tagline, for many non-Americans involved with USAID initiatives, is the only experience they have with “the American people.” And it’s a really, really good one.

There is nothing offensive in initiatives like these. When we invest in global health and stability, we are, in essence, safeguarding our own futures. It’s a proactive investment, saving us from reactive global expenditures. And it’s also what a great global power does: help others.

Is it a good idea to assess the directives and finances of USAID? Sure. Responsible assessments require time and investigation, employee interviews and rigorous fiscal analysis. The Trump administration has every right to do that. What’s happening here though, is irresponsible and cruel. Cruel to the thousands of USAID employees and millions of non-Americans to whom we have already promised — promised — our support, knowledge and resources.

Lives are at stake. There’s no reason to choose cruelty.

Brett Pierce
Freeport