Press handout photos here: https://flic.kr/s/aHsmHskRN6
Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/4Ih7SXHLvOI 

SEATTLE – Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) joined with more than 200 Seattle business, veteran, and community leaders today to discuss the importance of American diplomacy and development programs to Washington’s economy and national security.

“In the face of diplomatic rifts and humanitarian crises, the U.S. needs to step up as a global leader now more than ever – and that’s where our nation’s diplomats and development workers come in, “said Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. “Their efforts lead to real change around the world, from building international alliances to educating young girls and tackling Ebola and other diseases. As a member of Congress and concerned global citizen, I know that investing in these civilian-led programs is critical to ensuring peace and prosperity here at home and overseas.”

The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) hosted today’s foreign policy forum at a time when policy makers are considering the next year’s federal budget, including resources for the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

“Our military men and women in uniform are not the only ones that safeguard our national security,” said Lt. Gen. John Castellaw, USMC (ret.). “Throughout my 36 years in the Marine Corps, I saw how our U.S. diplomats and development worked on the ground to address global security threats from civil strife to famine to pandemics. As a nation, the United States is safer and stronger because of the hard work and dedication of our civilian and military forces working in tandem.”

Over 830,000 jobs in Washington are tied to international trade, and Washington’s exports to foreign markets total are $77 billion a year—meaning U.S. international engagement isn’t just a matter of national security, it’s a strategic economic issue for the Evergreen State.

A strong and growing coalition in the state, the USGLC’s Washington Advisory Committee brings together more than 80 business, faith, non-profit, veteran, and political leaders who understand why American global leadership matters for Washington.

“As we’ve heard today, Congresswoman Jayapal’s distinguished leadership has made a real impact on the health and prosperity of communities throughout Washington and around the world – and that includes backing resources for U.S. diplomacy and foreign assistance,” said Jason Gross, USGLC Executive Director. “I know her continued support of these programs will yield positive impacts for generations to come.”

Also participating in today’s forum was Jeanne Kohl-Welles, King County Councilmember; Dean Morris, President & CEO of Washington Global Health Alliance; Louise Chernin, President & CEO of the Greater Seattle Business Association; and Elaine Gibbons, Vice President of Global Engagement & Communications at PATH.