STATEMENT ON THE AUGUST 8, 2025, ATTACK ON CDC
We call for the immediate resignation of Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and OMB Director Russell Vought, one of the architects of Project 2025. The armed attack on CDC today, which claimed the life of a heroic police officer and left CDC workers devastated and traumatized, reflects the realization of Vought’s directive:
“When [federal workers] wake up in the morning, we want them to not want to go to work, because they are increasingly viewed as the villains . . . . We want to put them in trauma.”
Kennedy is directly responsible for the villainization of CDC’s workforce through his continuous lies about science and vaccine safety, which have fueled a climate of hostility and mistrust.
The ongoing destruction of our public health infrastructure has destroyed the systems meant to prevent tragedies like this from happening. Cuts to CDC’s injury prevention center, including programs to reduce gun violence and support mental health, have put our country at greater risk.
We don't need thoughts and prayers. We need an administration that does not villainize federal workers who are just trying to do their job. We need a Health and Human Services Secretary who does not promote misinformation about science and vaccines.
To our public health colleagues, we are here for you, and we’re not letting this go.
Photo courtesy of Dan Whisenhunt, Decaturish
Official Statements from Allies
What to Do Now
Provide Financial Support
CDC Foundation: Honor the Memory of Officer David Rose and Provide Support to His Family
Support your fellow CDC employees through the CDC Mutual Aid fund
Register for Atlanta Track Club’s 5K this Saturday, August 16. Registration fees will be donated to an education fund for Officer Rose’s children. Register online by Friday, August 15 at 9:00pm. On-site registration will be available if spots remain.
Participate in a Day of Service
We are working to organize a day of service in Officer Rose’s honor. Details TBD.
Care for Yourself
If you were on campus at the time, consider joining the signal support group (vetting required).
Visit the CDC Mutual Aid Network’s resources to support survivors of gun violence.
National Mass Violence Center’s (NMVC) free self-help app, Transcend NMVC, is available free on Apple and Android
NMVC’s Virtual Resiliency Center
NMVC’s Twelve Self-Help Tips for Coping in the Aftermath of Mass Violence Incidents
SAMHSA’s Coping with Grief After a Disaster or Traumatic Event
SAMHSA’s Tips for Survivors of a Disaster or Other Traumatic Event
SAMHSA’s Tips for Talking With and Helping Children and Youth Cope After a Disaster or Traumatic Event
NMVC’s How to Identify an Experienced Trauma-Focused Therapist
Recovery in the Aftermath of Workplace Violence: Guidance for Workers
Mental Health America’s Coping with Gun Violence
American Psychological Association’s Managing your distress in the aftermath of a shooting
Everytown Survivor Network’s Resources for Victims and Survivors of Gun Violence
Sandy Hook Promise’s Help for Victims and Survivors of Gun Violence
The 988 mental health hotline: free, confidential support 24/7 via call, text, or chat
Photo courtesy of Dan Whisenhunt, Decaturish
Care for Yourself
If you were on campus at the time, consider joining the signal support group (vetting required).
Visit the CDC Mutual Aid Network’s resources to support survivors of gun violence
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National Mass Violence Center’s (NMVC) free self-help app, Transcend NMVC, is available free on Apple and Android
NMVC’s Virtual Resiliency Center
NMVC’s Twelve Self-Help Tips for Coping in the Aftermath of Mass Violence Incidents
SAMHSA’s Coping with Grief After a Disaster or Traumatic Event
SAMHSA’s Tips for Survivors of a Disaster or Other Traumatic Event
SAMHSA’s Tips for Talking With and Helping Children and Youth Cope After a Disaster or Traumatic Event
NMVC’s How to Identify an Experienced Trauma-Focused Therapist
Recovery in the Aftermath of Workplace Violence: Guidance for Workers
Mental Health America’s Coping with Gun Violence
American Psychological Association’s Managing your distress in the aftermath of a shooting
Everytown Survivor Network’s Resources for Victims and Survivors of Gun Violence
Sandy Hook Promise’s Help for Victims and Survivors of Gun Violence
The 988 mental health hotline: free, confidential support 24/7 via call, text, or chat
Photo courtesy of Dan Whisenhunt, Decaturish
and then…
Raise Hell
Photo courtesy of Dan Whisenhunt, Decaturish
Talk to the Media
MAKE AMERICA LISTEN.
Attend one of our media training sessions to ensure you present your best self. We can even help you draft talking points. Just reach out to info@firedbutfighting.org.