The Foreign Service Journal, May 2023

AFSA NEWS The View from WashingtonWebinar THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL | MAY 2023 69 On March 9, AFSA President Eric Rubin hosted “View from Washington,” a periodic webinar that allows our retirees to hear directly from AFSA about current advocacy work on Capitol Hill and issues affecting the Foreign Service. Amb. Rubin outlined our legislative wins, including the passing of AFSA-supported legislation granting in-state college tuition in one’s state of domicile to Foreign Service members and their families. A key element of AFSA’s current agenda— and a critical issue for retirees—is removing the hours and pay caps for re-employed annuitants (REAs). Turning to modernization and reform efforts, Rubin described the newly designed entry process to the Foreign Ser- vice as allowing for a broader, more holistic view of candidates, and emphasized the continued high quality of our recruits. In terms of retention and diversity, however, challenges remain. Retention is affected by generational hesitance to commit to any career over the long term, and the Foreign Service still has some way to go before it truly reflects the diversity of American society. Looking forward to Foreign Service Day, Rubin reminded the audience that AFSA will be opening its doors to all mem- bers, both active duty and retired, for its traditional Open House on Thursday, May 4. A recording of the webinar is available to members only at www.afsa.org/video. n AFSA Hosts Global Town Hall AFSA hosted a Global Town Hall for all members on Feb. 16. More than 250 AFSAmembers listened in as AFSA President Ambassador Eric Rubin, joined by AFSA constituency vice presidents and staff, updated members on current advocacy priorities and concerns. Members sent questions in advance and asked many questions during the event—an encouraging sign of interest in AFSA’s activities on behalf of members. Amb. Rubin’s remarks covered a range of topics, including mental health in the Foreign Service; women’s health issues; pet transport; tandems in the Foreign Service; diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (especially the question of world- wide availability upon entry); assignment restrictions; congres- sional advocacy; promotions; and USAID workforce issues. AFSA uses all member questions, even those not addressed, to inform our future events. The next Town Hall will be held in summer 2023. n