Hi, my name is Montana, and until recently, l proudly worked for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, serving the public by helping protect the lands, water, and communities we all depend on.

I never imagined I would be writing something like this, but I'm reaching out because I'm facing an unexpected and life-changing hardship. Recently, I signed a Declaration of Dissent, expressing concerns about internal decisions that I believed could impact environmental integrity and public well-being. I signed this document in good faith as an act of conscience and commitment to the mission I dedicated my career to.

Shortly after, I lost my job.

I am sharing my own experience of what happened, and it has left me stunned, frightened, and unsure of what the future holds. Overnight, I went from serving the public to struggling to afford rent, utilities, and basic expenses. I am working to understand my options and regain stability, but right now, I urgently need support to get through the next few months.

I didn't speak up to cause disruption, I did it because I believed it was the right thing to do.

Public service should never punish conscience. Environmental stewardship relies on integrity, honesty, and the courage to raise concerns when something feels wrong.

Your support will not just help me survive this moment, it will help me stand by the values I believe in without losing everything.