Editor's note: This story is posted with permission from the anonymous federal employee who shared it with us. Some edits were made for length and clarity.
I am writing to express my dismay and disbelief at my recent layoff from my position at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. I supported several jurisdictions ensuring we were able to assist in mass vaccination tools and resources to minimize outbreaks.
Myself as well as others in my branch were terminated which means less of us to assist in tracking and combating infectious outbreaks. COVID-19 was an area our branch spent countless days assisting in vaccinations and minimizing mass outbreaks. Without our help, it increases the spread of infectious diseases and leaves people without proper information through Immunization Information Systems. My colleagues as well as my termination letter, cited my performance as the reason for my dismissal, which I strongly dispute and know not to be true.
My director and supervisor called me personally to ensure me that the [termination] letter they would send was false, and I have my performance reviews which also show this to be untrue. I was not a part of a bargaining unit that I know of, but was hired under veterans preference. As a veteran with extensive experience in public health, I was under probation, which was scheduled to conclude in August. My service to this country, including numerous deployments, has been a source of pride and sacrifice.
It is deeply concerning that my dismissal, along with that of many others, is a reflection of the inadequate value placed on the contributions of public health professionals. This is a stark contrast to the system that we are sworn to protect and serve.
I am deeply hurt, shocked, and ashamed by this injustice. We have no voice in this matter, and we do not deserve to be treated in this manner. This is not justice, nor is it the rights and freedoms that I fought for. It is a travesty of the values that I hold dear.
When will this cease? When will we attain safety? When will our sacrifices be recognized and valued? When will we be acknowledged and heard? When will this nation recognize us as indispensable and essential? I genuinely hope this office takes a proactive step towards restoring our roles. I take great pride in working for an organization that served the people with genuine love and passion for this country.