"AAFA Reacts to Administration Actions Restricting USAID and Vital Foreign Assistance Programs" 7 Feb. 2025

... the American Apparel & Footwear Association expressed alarm to actions taken in the last two weeks that AAFA believes is tantamount to the dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development and U.S. foreign assistance.

“USAID is an indispensable partner to the industry, providing critical support for our industry on worker rights, worker empowerment, worker health, renewable energy, climate impact, education, and sustainability in the countries where we operate. Moreover, USAID is essential to supporting these countries’ response to natural disasters and strengthening democratic institutions. All these actions and more help build strong alliances between workers and communities in the United States and these countries. In short, our industry, and our country, will suffer without USAID and its vital funding,” said AAFA president and CEO Steve Lamar.

... AAFA is urging the Administration to work with Congress and stakeholders to ensure that USAID remains fully funded and fully staffed, and that key programs such as those mentioned above remain vital, robust, and operational in support of key U.S. economic, diplomatic, foreign policy, and humanitarian objectives.

AAFA members represent more than 1,100 name brands with a global presence in sourcing, manufacturing, sales and merchandising, and more. AAFA members partner with USAID government staff, contractors, and related parties to improve live and livelihoods around the world while advocating for stability in the regions with which they interact.