Emily, Massachusetts

Dear Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA), Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA),

My name is Emily and I am one of your constituents. I am a recent college graduate who is now working in the nonprofit world and I hope to go on and receive further education in International Development. I care deeply for the people around me and feel like it is part of my duty to do what I can in helping those around me so that we all have the chance to reach out potential. I know that you care about these issues too, and I trust that you will question and push back on President Trump's recent federal aid and grant freeze. His violation of the Impoundment Act not only affects me, but also my family, my neighbors, and your average American.

As I mentioned above, I work in the nonprofit world, for a group called Mormon Women for Ethical Government. Our mission is to ensure that leaders in our government advance democracy and are ethical. We give women the space to get involved in politics and advocate for themselves in this male-dominant space. With this freeze, I fear that I won't be able to receive my paychecks to pay my rent, my food bills, transportation costs, and my upcoming Masters education. Along with my needs, if our nonprofit doesn't have the funds to continue then women will lose an opportunity to lift their voices and advocate for themselves.

I know that the nonprofit I work for is not the only group affected by this freeze. There are thousands of other organizations that offer life-changing support--in healthcare, in education, or in food security. If the executive branch of our government is so concerned with putting America first then they should realize that AMERICANS RELY ON THESE FUNDS.

Additionally, I am horrified that President Trump has paused federal aid on the international level---inhibiting programs like PEPFAR which provides individuals with life-saving treatment from H.I.V.. This is ridiculous. In some cases, these treatments are already in clinics waiting to be distributed, but now apparently we can't even hand those out? Why are we allowing our president to make decisions that will deteriorate our global neighbors and ruin their chances at development or a happy life? Living in a "golden age" requires for those around us to be thriving as well, and right now I am EXTREMELY disappointed and disheartened that America is appearing to be a selfish country.

I trust that you are against Trump's violation of the Impoundment Act. We cannot let any power go unchecked. We live in a democracy where all voices are heard and decisions like this are NOT made unilaterally. The last week has been very upsetting for me and I pray that you and your colleagues will stand up for the Americans, like me, who are voicing their concerns. Please.

Thank you for your service as Massachusetts Legislators. I appreciate the good work and strength you have already shown during this new presidency. Press on.

Sincerely,

Emily