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Global Community Day

Celebrating the People and Purpose Behind America’s Global Engagement

In the heart of the nation’s capital, a powerful message rang out: the global service community is still here, still committed—and their work matters now more than ever.

Hosted in partnership with DC’s Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 1B and OneAID, Global Community Day took place on September 13th in Washington, DC’s scenic Malcolm X/Meridian Hill Park. The event brought together hundreds of current and former international affairs professionals, their families, and supporters to celebrate the impact of U.S. foreign assistance around the world.

The day honored not just policies and programs, but the people who dedicate their lives to advancing peace, security, development, and democracy. Representatives and alumni from agencies such as USAID, the U.S. Department of State, Millennium Challenge Corporation, Peace Corps, Voice of America, U.S. Institute of Peace, National Democratic Institute, and the National Endowment for Democracy joined the celebration, alongside other partner organizations.

Despite a year marked by program cuts, job losses, and dramatic organizational changes, the event struck a tone of resilience, purpose, and unity. One speaker captured the mood perfectly:

“This community is also fired up—fired up to continue to serve, to mentor, to contribute with integrity and impact.”

A powerful lineup of guest speakers, including Brian Atwood, Sarah Charles, Uzra Zeya, Atul Gawande, and Liz Hume, offered moving reflections on the importance of public service and the lasting value of international engagement. Many shared personal stories, including experiences of hardship and recovery, reinforcing the humanity behind the mission.

The event also featured a vibrant community resource fair with local and national partners, including The Solidarity Fund, American Red Cross, DC Department of Employment Services, Society for International Development (SID-US), Pivoting Parents, Alliance for Peacebuilding, and Grounded Idealist Coaching Collaborative. Attendees enjoyed the Faces of Foreign Aid photo exhibit by Kelley Lynch, and music by local favorite Leon City Sounds.

As the international affairs sector continues to navigate uncertainty, Global Community Day served as both a celebration and a call to action. In a time of disruption, it reminded everyone of the enduring strength of a community united by purpose, service, and global solidarity.