The Association of Black American Ambassadors (ABAA) supports a strong global U.S. diplomatic presence and a professional Foreign Service that reflects the character and diversity of America. 

We write with deepening concern about a series of presidential Executive Orders published since January 21, that upend years of settled bipartisan foreign and domestic policy.  They cover a host of issues from diversity and inclusion to immigration and trade, as well as to foreign assistance programs administered by the U.S. Agency for International Development.  The announced closure of USAID is particularly egregious. Many of our members have led American embassies with USAID programs and we know they are an investment in global stability.  They are also one of the most cost effective aways of advancing some of America’s key international interests, especially in the developing world. Shutting down USAID also plays into the hands of our adversaries who will paint us as unreliable partners and will step in to fill the vacuum our departure creates, especially in health care and economic development.  Closing USAID deprives the American people and our partners overseas of the enormous knowledge, unique skills, and dedication of thousands of our talented diplomats and development professionals worldwide who have innovated and sacrificed to contribute to America’s safety and security.”  

ABAA stands with the professional federal workforce that keeps America strong worldwide.  We urge the Administration to keep USAID open and encourage Congress to push for this action.   

A strong, effective USAID serves the foreign policy interest of America.   

February 7, 2025   
Contact: P. Spratlen – contactus@blackamericanambassadors.org