FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MAY 1, 2017
MEDIA ADVISORY
Cardin to Hear from Maryland-Based Groups on the Frontlines of Delivering American Assistance Worldwide
Lost on the Trump Administration seems to be that diplomacy and development improve regional stability, prevent pandemics, counter the destructive lure and influence of extremist factions, and foster trust and confidence in the United States
MONDAY, May 1 at 10:00 AM, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations that has oversight responsibility for the Department of State and U.S. Agency for International Development, will join local leaders for a discussion of the president’s plans to slash the budgets of the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The White House proposed “skinny budget” for FY18 proposes dramatic cuts to the Department of State and foreign assistance programs. The President’s budget proposes to cut the Department of State by 36 percent. Early reports also indicate more than three dozen USAID country and regional offices may be targeted for complete closure.
Participants represent members of BINGO, an informal network of leaders from Baltimore and Maryland-based international non-government organizations.
“Diplomacy and development are essential components of our overall national security budget. The president’s budget undermines our national security by making it harder to safeguard American interests abroad, to promote our values, encourage stability or expand American prosperity. USAID’s focus on development, global health and humanitarian assistance is critical to preventing and mitigating crises,” said Senator Cardin. “The work of these organizations makes Americans safer and impacts the lives of the most vulnerable people across the globe.”
WHAT: Discussion on Trump Budget Proposals with Internationally Focused Organizations
WHO: U.S. Senator Ben Cardin
Lutheran World Relief
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service
Catholic Relief Services
International Youth Foundation
JHPIEGO (Johns Hopkins affiliated)
American Hindu World Service
International Social Services
ADRA (Adventist Relief and Development)
IMA World Health
International Orthodox Charities
WHEN: Monday, May 1 at 10:00 AM
WHERE: Christ Lutheran Church, 700 Light Street, Baltimore, MD
