Deep State Seeks Self Care

January 9, 2023 10:20 PM

Are there resources/support out there for a career government employee under a hostile administration?

A friend is an experienced, dedicated, career civil servant. As of this year, they will be reporting to a person loudly and publicly opposed to the mission of their department. Resigning is not an immediate option. If my friend were willing to blow off their responsibility to the public, they would not be where they are.

I know other government workers have had similar experiences, say, under the previous administration - are there essays, articles, shared wisdom/support out there about staying sane and continuing to try for good government under a boss that has other priorities? Personal experiences also welcome.

posted by anonymous to Work & Money (1 answer total)

Sometimes working with a professional association can help people both feel less isolated, keep up with trends, and strategize with the wisdom of the group’s total professional experience. Having this space can act as an oasis of sorts. State governments sometimes have professional groups for each X role across agencies, the feds likely have this too.
posted by childofTethys at 5:14 AM on January 10, 2023 [3 favorites]