Fired CDC Workers Unite to Form National Public Health Coalition
In a bold response to sweeping layoffs, former employees of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have established the National Public Health Coalition. This new organization aims to champion evidence-based public health policies, filling a void left by the Trump administration's drastic cuts to the agency. The coalition emerged from the ashes of job losses that have affected over 4,000 CDC workers, representing a third of its workforce.
From Dream Job to Dismissal: Abby Tighe's Story
Abby Tighe joined the CDC in December 2023, managing a youth substance abuse prevention program focused on rural communities. Hailing from Appalachia, she felt a deep connection to her work, describing the CDC as a place where mission outweighed personal ambition. However, on February 14, she received a form email notifying her of her termination as a probationary worker. This marked the beginning of a widespread downsizing effort that has reshaped the agency.
The Birth of Fired But Fighting
Initially, Tighe and other dismissed employees formed a mutual aid network called Fired But Fighting. As layoffs continued, they witnessed the CDC's transformation under Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy into an entity barely recognizable. Instead of fighting for jobs that might not return, they pivoted to advocacy, rebranding as the National Public Health Coalition in October. The name change, suggested by former Surgeon General Jerome Adams, aimed to be less confrontational and more inclusive to garner broader support.
Applying CDC Skills to New Advocacy
The coalition leverages the expertise of its members in innovative ways. Data scientists run the CDC Data Project, tracking budget and staffing cuts and their impacts on areas like cancer research and disease outbreak control. Communications experts engage with lawmakers on Capitol Hill, highlighting how programs such as Alzheimer's research are being dismantled. Former press officers alert the media to real-world consequences, such as the elimination of childhood lead prevention programs during crises.
The 'Shadow CDC' Emerges
As the Trump administration slashes research and spreads misinformation, the National Public Health Coalition is part of a larger "shadow CDC" that includes academic institutions and professional associations. This network serves as a temporary bulwark against the erosion of public health infrastructure. However, coalition members acknowledge that non-governmental groups cannot fully replace federal agencies, emphasizing the need for long-term rebuilding.
Rebuilding Trust and Communication
Aryn Backus, a former CDC health communication specialist, stresses the coalition's goal to "drive forward the rebuilding of trust" in public health. This involves improving how health information is communicated, moving away from technical jargon and enhancing social media engagement. The coalition also encourages public health professionals to take on roles in government or run for office to bridge gaps between science and public perception.
Looking to the Future
With about 100 regular volunteers, the coalition focuses on advocacy, legal tracking, and public outreach. While some members hope to eventually return to a reformed CDC, others, like Backus, are skeptical about rejoining under current conditions. The ultimate aim is to foster a stronger, non-partisan public health system that restores American faith in science and health policy.
