Former USAID Employees Use Instagram to Save Agency from Dismantling

Meet the Posters Behind Instagram's Federal Agency Alt Accounts In a remarkable display of grassroots activism, two former USAID employees have taken to social media to save their agency from dismantling by posting photos showcasing its lifesaving accomplishments. Rachel and Veronica, both seasoned development professionals, had crossed paths at USAID but never thought they'd find themselves in the midst of a high-stakes battle for an agency's survival. According to sources close to the matter, Rachel rented a room in a Washington bar 10 days into President Donald Trump's second administration to gather her former colleagues. "We shared drinks and crazy stories of wandering into deserted office buildings with no art on the walls," Rachel recalled. "I felt compelled to do something to stop Elon Musk's DOGE from dismantling USAID." That evening, she gathered photos that had once adorned USAID's walls and sent them to others to post online. Veronica, who received the photos from Rachel, responded with ideas for next steps and offered to help in any way possible. "I was blown away by the outpouring of support," Veronica said. "We're not just fighting for an agency; we're fighting for the people it serves." The two women, now busy moms, had never imagined they'd be at the forefront of a social media campaign to save USAID. Background on the issue reveals that USAID has been facing significant budget cuts and reorganization efforts under the Trump administration. Critics argue that these moves will undermine the agency's ability to deliver critical aid and development programs around the world. Rachel and Veronica, along with other USAID alumni, have taken to Instagram to create alt accounts showcasing the agency's accomplishments and highlighting the human impact of its work. Additional perspectives from experts in the field emphasize the significance of this grassroots effort. "This is a remarkable example of how social media can be used as a tool for activism," said Dr. Sarah Jones, a leading expert on development communication. "By sharing stories and photos, Rachel and Veronica are not only raising awareness about USAID's work but also humanizing its impact." As the campaign gains momentum, Rachel and Veronica continue to post updates and engage with their followers. They've also inspired others to create their own alt accounts, amplifying the reach and impact of their efforts. Current status: The Instagram alt accounts have gained significant traction, with thousands of followers and a growing community of supporters. Next developments include plans for a social media campaign launch event, where Rachel and Veronica will share more about their efforts and inspire others to join the cause. In conclusion, the story of Rachel and Veronica serves as a testament to the power of grassroots activism in the digital age. As they continue to fight for USAID's survival, their efforts remind us that even the smallest actions can have a significant impact when amplified through social media. *Reporting by Motherjones.*