Deric Gilliard, a seasoned federal employee and black activist who retired in 2022 after 25 years of dedicated service spanning five presidential administrations, including that of Donald Trump, offers a firsthand account of working under the most contentious and disruptive leadership in modern history.
His book, The Longest Four Years of My Life, A View From the Field by a Black Fed, documents the impacts of Trump’s policies, and details the experiences and challenges faced while implementing them.
The Trump Administration: A Retrospective
When Donald Trump campaigned for president, he promised to be the best leader for Black Americans since Abraham Lincoln. However, contrary to these promises, Gilliard highlights numerous harmful actions taken during Trump’s tenure, including:
- Elimination of thousands of federal career employees, many from key states like Georgia and Mississippi.
- Cancellation of supportive programs by the Department of Education.
- Attacks on Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act.
- Elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
In addition, one of the actions included altering historical displays at the Smithsonian Institution to downplay the institution and history of slavery.
Experiencing Trump’s Policies Firsthand
As a public affairs advisor, Gilliard had the task of preparing and disseminating communications, a role inherently linked to policy enforcement. He recounts the discomfort of having to circulate messages that he knew were misleading. Gilliard witnessed first-hand the systemic impact of regressive policies, particularly those targeting healthcare access like the Affordable Care Act.
During this tumultuous period, Trump’s administration starved the ACA of vital resources, obstructing established systems that facilitated health insurance access for millions.
A Look at the Past and the Path Forward
Gilliard’s journey included serving in five administrations from Clinton to Biden’s. He says the Obama years were particularly fulfilling as he helped implement policies that echoed Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision. He speaks fondly of engaging in public service that championed community healthcare and equality, principles that Trump’s policies often contradicted.
Comparative reflections between Trump and Biden reveal stark contrasts: where Trump dismantled systems, Biden sought to restore them, emphasizing support for vulnerable populations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Deric Gilliard’s Literary Contribution
Gilliard’s new book sheds light on these experiences, offering a narrative that is both personal and political. He underscores the need for historical context, drawing parallels from past civil rights struggles to present-day challenges.
He critiques the recent trend toward autocracy and regressive governance, urging readers to recognize how broad societal harm results from political missteps.
A Call for Engagement and Awareness
Gilliard’s reflections prompt a deeper understanding of the intersection between leadership, race, and policy. His insights urge citizens to remain vigilant and informed about the political forces shaping their rights and everyday lives. Both his interview with Lean to the Left and his newly released book are significant resources for anyone looking to grasp the impacts of Trump’s presidency on America’s socio-political landscape.
For those interested in hearing more from Deric Gilliard, his books are available on Amazon, and further information can be found on his website. As “Lean to the Left” continues to provide a platform for voices like Gilliard’s, it ensures ongoing discourse on vital issues affecting us all.
Gilliard wraps up the conversation by sharing his endeavor to contribute towards progress and reconciliation – reflections rooted in a deep understanding of past triumphs and tragedies in the struggle for civil rights. His passion and commitment serve as poignant reminders of the power of resilience and activism.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction and Trump’s Promises to Black Americans
01:39 Deric Gillard’s Background and Career
04:07 Experiences Under Different Administrations
06:06 Impact of Trump’s Policies
11:25 COVID-19 and Trump’s Leadership
15:10 Federal Workforce and Safety Nets
19:47 Trolling Trump on Social Media
20:10 Impact of Cutting Education Programs
21:11 Trump’s Obsession with the Affordable Care Act
22:14 Obama’s Legacy and Racial Backlash
25:15 Reflections on Working for Different Presidents
33:27 The Importance of Telehealth During COVID
34:24 Promoting Justice and Equality
35:31 Discussing the New Book
36:44 Upcoming Book Club Announcement