Federal employees are taking a stand against the Biden administration’s Gaza policy by posting personalized notes atop their badges on Instagram. Over 50 notes have been shared so far, with employees expressing their dissent and concerns about the ongoing conflict. The Intercept spoke with six federal workers who confirmed their participation in the campaign but chose to remain anonymous due to fears of retaliation.
One State Department staffer with over two decades of experience explained the importance of these anonymous letters, stating, “It’s important for people to know we’re real human beings and real government employees.” The online protest campaign is organized by Feds United for Peace, a group of federal employees who aim to voice their opposition to the situation in Gaza. The campaign gained momentum after Israel launched attacks on the city of Rafah. While the Biden administration had warned against such actions, they have not explicitly condemned the recent airstrikes.
The employees participating in the campaign come from various agencies, including Commerce, Justice, Homeland Security, Labor, State, U.S. Agency for International Development, and the Social Security Administration. Some of the badges posted on Instagram belong to congressional staffers, and one even showcases a diplomatic passport. The fact that federal employees are taking such personal and direct-action-oriented steps demonstrates a significant shift in their approach.
Many of the employees involved in the campaign are considering resigning due to their frustrations with the current situation. A Department of Homeland Security employee expressed their exasperation, saying, “For me, I’ve just reached a point of total frustration. We see through the gaslighting” over Gaza. However, not all employees feel the same way. Another State Department employee believes they can be more productive by staying within the government.
It is important to note that these federal employees are not radicals or rule-breakers. They are individuals who have dedicated their careers to public service and are now taking personal action for the first time. Their participation in this campaign serves as a complement to the recent wave of highly publicized resignations. The Justice Department staffer emphasizes the significance of their actions, stating, “When it gets to the point that federal employees are doing something this personal and direct-action oriented, that speaks to the shift.”
