Statement in Support of Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins’ Immediate Confirmation by the United States Senate as the U.S. Department of State Undersecretary for Arms Control and International Security In January 2021, President Joseph Biden nominated Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins to serve as the Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security. This role is one of pivotal importance as the President’s nominee will advise the White House and the Secretary of State on arms control and disarmament, and a host of other international security issues.. On April 28, 2021, Amb. Jenkins testified to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In her testimony, she stated “My commitment to public service has always included advancing opportunities for all Americans.” She highlighted that if confirmed, she will bring the breadth of her experience and leadership to bear on the challenges that the United States is facing by “reducing the risk of nuclear war through effective arms control, limiting Russian and Chinese nuclear expansion, strengthening our efforts in biosecurity, pursuing accountability for the use of chemical weapons, and promoting a diverse workforce.” Amb. Jenkins underscoring her top priorities mentioned that the United States must strengthen deterrence alliances in the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific to deter and defend against growing threats and also develop and implement norms of responsible behavior in outer space while meeting challenges that emerging technologies pose to strategic stability. It has been five months since President Biden’s nomination of Amb. Jenkins to this vital position – yet Amb. Jenkins awaits her confirmation. Her nomination as the Undersecretary for Arms Control and International Security is a testament to the crucial role that she has played as a public servant – as a naval reserves officer, a lawyer negotiating key US arms control treaties, a skilled diplomat, an academic educating the next generation, and an exemplary voice to raise and uplift the under-represented communities. Statements by Foreign Policy for America, Arms Control Association and Alliance for Peacebuilding and in the National Interest all strongly support Ambassador Jenkins’ confirmation. Individuals in the peace, national security, and foreign policy communities from both parties recognize the value of her continued contributions to these fields.
We, members of the WCAPS community, recognize the important role that Amb. Jenkins will be in the United States government. In this open letter, we make a strong call to action for her immediate confirmation to lead the Department of State US global efforts on international security issues. In this letter, we also elaborate on how Amb. Jenkins has injected creativity, integrity, humanity, and amity into her work as a selfless advocate of women and girls of color who seek careers in arms control, nonproliferation, and other areas of international security. Additionally, we wish to emphasize how Amb. Jenkins has been an active mentor to several of us and has been working to build a diversified workforce. She is especially engaged with girls and women of color whose voices and presence in peace and security, including national security fields, lack adequate representation. Amb. Jenkins founded Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security and Conflict Transformation (WCAPS) in 2017, and the organization quickly became a platform not only for her passion and commitment to building the next generation of women change-makers, but also for the pipeline of experienced women of color peace and security professionals she successfully created. Her ongoing legacy inspires us not only to thrive but to pave the way for other women of color and to create a seat at the table. Notwithstanding her accomplishments and busy schedule, she is always willing to actively advocate for and uplift women and people of color around her. Though the organization was only started four years ago, the WCAPS mission has clearly resonated worldwide. The enthusiasm with which women of color have flocked to this organization clearly proves that space to share common experiences, challenges and expertise were sorely missing. Additionally, since the 2020 summer racial justice protests, she has launched numerous initiative, pipeline programs, working groups and Chapters of WCAPS, including the rganizations in Solidarity (OiS) a partnership of over 250 organizations to reduce racism and discrimination in the workplace. During the Obama Administration, Amb. Jenkins served as the Coordinator for Cooperative Threat Reduction Programs, leading the charge during the four landmark Nuclear Security Summits that sought to bring about President Obama’s vision of "the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons." Amb. Jenkins also participated in the U.S. government interagency team that established and launched the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA). Between administrations, she has held many positions, including chair of the Committee on Radioactive Sources: Applications and Alternative Technologies of the National Academies of Sciences; nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution; senior fellow at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs; and, 2
adjunct professor at the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service and the Georgetown University Law Center. Her academic background is equally impressive as she holds a doctorate from the University of Virginia; a Master of Laws from Georgetown University; a Master of Public Administration from the State University of New York at Albany; a Juris Doctor from Albany Law School; and a bachelor's degree from Amherst College. While many people are content to ‘make it’ in their individual careers, what distinguishes Amb. Jenkins is her commitment to pave the way for countless others. WCAPS’ core mission is to ensure that women of color are fearless and able to pursue their dreams and passions to have equal opportunities and a seat at the table on issues of peace and security. Amb. Jenkins has been at the forefront of these efforts, setting an example. In a world where women of color are excluded for various reasons, Amb. Jenkins has created and continues to open doors for girls and women of color, and lead a movement that shapes the pathways for women of color professionals in the nuclear policy field and beyond. For all these reasons and many more, we, members of WCAPS, submit this letter strongly supporting and urging Amb. Jenkins’ immediate confirmation for Undersecretary for State on Arms Control and International Security. In addition to this letter with signatures demonstrating the overwhelming support for Amb. Jenkins’ immediate confirmation, we have also included several detailed testimonials from women impacted by her leadership. Thank you for your time and attention to this letter of support.
WCAPS Member Quotes: As founder of the Global Advocacy and Diplomacy Working Group in WCAPS, I am evidence of Amb. Bonnie Jenkins’ commitment to not only propelling the incoming class of diverse National Security and Peacebuilding professionals but resounding commitment to sow the seeds necessary to counter threats to the United States and the international order today and beyond. Amb. Jenkins is the American people’s strongest arsenal on matters of nonproliferation and global U.S. security policy and we the WCAPS community urge the U.S. Senate to deploy this weapon by swiftly nominating Amb. Jenkins as Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security. Maritza T. Adonis 3
In addition to her technical expertise in national security, Ambassador Jenkins has created a movement that has and continues to pave the way for women in national security, in the legal profession and beyond. I am a fortunate beneficiary of her legacy. I am grateful for our numerous one on one conversations while I served at the UN in Rome, Italy, where she patiently learned about and encouraged my passion for my work. I stand on her shoulders as I am sure many other women do. Abiola Afolayan Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins is the Founder and Former Executive Director of WCAPS. She founded the organization in September 2017 to advance the leadership and professional development of women of color in peace, security, and conflict transformation. WCAPS builds on Amb. Jenkins' vision to build the next generation of women change-makers, and create a pipeline of experienced women of color peace and security professionals. Her ongoing legacy inspires us not only to thrive but to pave the way for other women of color and to create a seat at the table. Ruwan Al-Rejoleh Amb. Jenkins founded the organisation called, "Women of Color Advancing Peace and Security (WCAPS).” She's an expert in arms control and non proliferation, a professor in foreign service, a former naval officer and leader of the American Bar Association's Women in National Security Law Initiative. With such experience, I believe that she's perfect for the role leading US Efforts on Arms Control and International Security. Colleen Ambrose The challenges we face from a variety of countries including Russia and China requires leadership, strategy, and a vision. Ambassador Jenkins is able to bring that and more to the position strengthening our national security and advancing bring back better in US foreign policy. Heather Ashby In addition to Bonnie Jenkins' record of leadership in structuring and safeguarding the field of peace and security, she is also developing important pathways for women of color. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion has just become a major priority for this administration, and no other federal agent has provided more experience, insight, and plans to structure a path forward that is meaningful execution and that also is supported by a community. We elected this administration to place leaders like Bonnie Jenkins into positions where they can assist to safeguard our country by also thinking
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about communities of color as we all offer a clear path forward that would show others how to also do the same. Sarah June Benjamin Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins is the most qualified diplomat to lead the US efforts on Arms Control and International Security. She has extensive experience and comprehensive expertise in national security, arms control, non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and US foreign policy. Ambassador Jenkins should be immediately confirmed to support the operationalisation of the US International Security machinery. Her exceptional leadership skills and her promotion of DEI add to her unique and competitive background. I call on the US Congress to urgently expedite the vote and confirm Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins as US Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security. Saara Bouhouche Ambassador Jenkins is already a proven expert in this field and continues to be a leader by ensuring that she incorporates diverse viewpoints into her decision-making. Alexious Butler Amb. Jenkins expertise will advance US diplomatic and security interests unlike any other. Angela Chin The immediate confirmation of Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins is integral in ensuring our nation's continued leadership in arms control and international security, especially in a rapidly changing global environment that constantly requires innovative and inclusive thinking and redefines the traditional definitions of national security. Jane Kim Coloseus Amb. Jenkins' career creating avenues for diverse candidates to enter and participate in government makes her well adept to strengthen the Biden Administration's priority of increasing diversity in the federal government workforce as laid out in Executive Orders 13583, 13988, and 14020. Kwame K Crawford Ambassador Jenkins has changed the life of so many. She has made what seemed impossible possible. As a mentor in Arms control and International security space, she 5
has always shared her wide depth and breath of knowledge from a place of empathy and putting a human face to an often automatic industry. She is beyond qualified and brings so many unique and important experiences to the role. She would be exactly what she needs in this administration and beyond. Mari Faines It is the right moment for gender justice in international affairs and Amb Jenkins is the right person. Latanya Mapp Frett Ambassador Jenkins has both experience and deep expertise in nonproliferation, arms control and international security. I have seen her successfully advocate for U.S. policy initiatives in international workshops. She not only cares deeply about policy issues, but her dedication to WCAPS and its diverse programming shows her practical efforts to nurture the pipeline of future U.S. diplomats. She would be an incredible asset for any U.S.G. agency. Seema Gahlaut She is the undisputed expert in her field combined with the leadership required for U.S. and global success. She is the right leader at the right time! Andrea Greene-Horace Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins is a steadfast leader committed to advancing U.S. interests both domestically and overseas. Her distinguished career in public service and expertise on arms control and nuclear nonproliferation, makes her one of the most qualified individuals to lead U.S. efforts on Arms Control and International Security. As an Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security Affairs, Ambassador Jenkins will undoubtedly work tirelessly as a keen advocate, astute negotiator, and informed policymaker to improve the United State's global standing on arms control and international security issues. Each day her nomination stalls, our adversaries are advancing their strategic interests to the detriment of our country. Not only are adversaries gaining more ground and scrutinizing our moves, but the next generation of women and girls are also watching. The resounding message they are hearing is that irrespective of having the right qualifications and experience, an extremely qualified woman can be blocked from breaking glass ceilings due to unnecessary political and bureaucratic hurdles. We need to set a better example for the next generation. We need to learn from Ambassador Jenkins' leadership in cultivating the next generation of female leaders. As the founder of Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security, and Conflict Transformation (WCAPS), she has championed the advancement of women 6
and girls of color to ensure they gain a seat at the table and prevent systemic barriers from hindering their future and contributions to the United States. Her dedication to making America a true beacon of light makes her interrogate and challenge the status quo so we can become the best version of ourselves and serve as a shining example in the world. Confirming Ambassador Jenkins will not only send a strong message of international strategic importance but also one of promise and hope to the next generation of female leaders. Karen Isabel Guevara Ambassador Jenkins has the institutional knowledge and know-how in order to address our nation's most pressing national security challenges. We need her confirmation NOW! Gabrielle Gueye She is eminently qualified for this job. Mark Hanis I teach Arms Control and International Security and I am the director of WCAPS West Coast Chapter, so I have many things in common with Ambassador Jenkins. Her confirmation shows someone like me, Black and female that the national security, foreign policy space is diverse in thought and representation. In addition, Ambassador Jenkins's professional record is stellar. Her reputation within the community is strong and what she's accomplished as WCAPS's founder is impressive and speaks to her strong visionary and leadership abilities. Lastly, all eyes are on the US and nationalism and racism are fracturing our democracy. This deep fracture makes the country vulnerable and diminishes trust other States have with democracy. By holding up Ambassador Jenkin's confirmation after publicly pushing her on a feminist points not only tells women, but women of color that we are not valued and that our world views should not be nuanced. I believe in this country and I am hoping that the Senate will do the right thing and not give further ammunition to claims of racism, discrimination and sexism. Our country needs diversity more than ever, it is our foundation and we do not secure our foundation, we stand to lose it. Nola Haynes Ambassador Jenkins exemplifies the type of leader we need today. She is an expert in the areas of arms control, disarmament, and nonproliferation. She was nominated by President Barack Obama in April 2009 and confirmed by the U.S. Senate in June 2009 as Special Envoy and Coordinator for Threat Reduction Programs in the Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation (ISN), U.S. Department of State (DOS). She 7
served in that position until January 2017. Jenkins promoted a coordinated U.S. effort on threat reduction globally. Jenkins was the DOS lead for the 2010 - 2016 Nuclear Security Summits and the U.S. Representative to the G7 Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction, to name a few of her positions and accolades. What I find most impressive is Ambassador Jenkins' humble approach and the way she has opened so many doors for those around her. The founding of WCAPS, Women of Color Advancing Peace & Security, is a testament of her commitment to help lift up other women and people of color all while making significant contributions to the advancement of peace and security both here domestically & abroad. Rebecca Irby I was completely taken with Ambassador Jenkins' challenge to redefine national security to include health security for all citizens from our initial meeting in 2016. She envisioned and executed a plan to inspire other women of color to operate in the space of foreign affairs by founding Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security, and Conflict Transformation (WCAPS). WCAPS in just three short years has evolved into an international organization of significance while developing the framework for solidarity and advocacy for marginalized groups within the US borders. Ambassador Jenkins is a results-oriented and motivated executive leader with rich experience in academics, leadership, mentorship, policy analysis and program development. She is poised to be an immediate asset to the leadership team at the Department of State. Crystal M. James Amb. Jenkis is not only extremely qualified but passionate about arms control. She has had past leadership positions that represented the US and brokered deals on behalf of US safety and security. Her work is paramount and she has been living her life on these principles through professional employments as well as her personal/volunteer time by creating a global platform for women in peace, conflict, and security transformation Jamia Jowers Bonnie is the right person in the right place and continued delay in her confirmation jeopardizes USG ability to execute its arms control and nonproliferation agenda effectively. Chen Zak Kane
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You will never find someone more committed and hard working than Bonnie. Her dedication and service to this country is exemplary, and is very much needed as we navigate newer and ever changing security issues in a post-pandemic world. Rudra Kapila I enthusiastically endorse Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins confirmation because of her thorough understanding of how polarizing discourse, growing disparities, and unequal treatment of BIPOC communities across the US creates vulnerabilities, drive instability and compromise national security. We need her critical perspective, life exposures, and expertise to make a profound positive impact in her new leadership role. Uchenna Mbawuike She is an exceptionally qualified expert in the field that enjoys the respect of not only her peers in the field but her students and mentees. Nomsa Michelle The threat and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) is one of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century. Amb. Bonnie Jenkins with her distinguished experiences of being a diplomat, lawyer, and a scholar who has tirelessly worked towards reducing the threat of WMDs, and strengthening the United States national security and promoting global peace and stability is prepared to take on the job of Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security from Day 1. She should be immediately confirmed to lead this important position so as to ensure that the US continues to remain the leader of nuclear nonproliferation and arms control efforts. Sylvia Mishra As a student who is interested in pursuing a career in international peace and security, Ambassador Jenkins, who shoulders immense international responsibilities, has been incredibly present for, and accessible to young women of color like myself. Her humility, dedication, and service-mindedness are evident both in her well-documented academic, military and diplomatic engagements, but also in her drop-ins on ordinary lunch Zoom calls with "GenZers" like myself. Ambassador Jenkins' extremely high qualifications for this nomination are evident, but I must underscore her commitment to community-grounded and globally-minded peace and security work on behalf of the US. Not only is she an expert, she truly is a model public servant—whom I and countless
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other young adults respect and admire. I call strongly and graciously for her immediate confirmation. Rucha Modi I am writing in support of Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins’ Immediate Confirmation by the United States Senate to as Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security. Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins is the Founder and Former Executive Director of WCAPS during this time she has made great strides in creating a community of volunteers that enjoys sisterhood, camaraderie, empowerment, and support. This organization runs monthly meetings including guest speakers and enrichment trainings, investiture/rededication ceremonies, leadership meetings, and much more. Her experience on Arms control and International security makes her a natural leader and coach on the areas where women need to be more involved. She can provide advice, insight, and resources for almost any national security subject. Ambassador Jenkins started the conversation and leads the “Redefining Security: Policy Paper” engaging different organizations and institutions, policy makers and government stakeholders. Ambassador Jenkins possesses unique leadership and diplomatic skills to be qualified for this important role. Deyanira J Murga Ambassador Jenkins has a wealth of experience and is trusted within foreign policy and national security communities for her measured, thoughtful and consultative approach to issues related to arms control and international security. Her dedication to redefining national security to ensure a broad range of voices are reflected in American domestic and foreign policies have had far-reaching benefits for the country and the world. Our Government is doing itself a disservice if she is not confirmed immediately in light of recent political and diplomatic developments. Pratima T. Narayan Ambassador Jenkins represents the best qualities of what America has to offer. She is extremely intelligent and proactive while also maintaining and exercising a heart of service in her desire to give back. She has created a safe space for womxn to come together to grow professionally and personally. B. Eni Owoeye Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins is a talented and dedicated professional. She brings a unique blend of effective leadership, compassion, and decisive action. She is gifted in mobilizing teams of people towards specific goals, always with a purpose to make the individuals involved and the countries they live in better. She is as committed to keeping 10
peace by preventing violence but is fiercely committed to defending the United States of America. She brings essential intercultural competence to this position. She is committed to listening for understanding the root causes of national insecurity. She has the capacity to suspend judgement in order to evaluate the information needed to make difficult decisions and she is gifted in building a rapport and trust with both allies and those we are in conflict with. Ambassador Jenkins understands it is imperative to promote diversity and inclusion which is critical for our national security workforce as we seek peace with cultures different from our own. In a complex and interconnected world, the current nature of the U.S. national security challenges and opportunities requires a more nuanced approach that Ambassador Jenkins provides. As a society that can trace its heritage to every region around the world. Ambassador Jenkins understands that the diversity of the American people and our collective wisdom are our greatest resource when it comes to the United States’ ability to build bridges to communities within the U.S. and beyond our borders. She knows how to surround herself with wise counsel as well. She will address foreign threats and aggression, and effectively lead coalitions to effectively advocate for global peace and understanding. The values and wisdom Ambassador Jenkins brings to the table will provide a much needed perspective, skills, and background to tackle our nation's toughest problems. Kelly Pengelly At WCAPS, I was the first staff member and have worked closely with Amb. Bonnie Jenkins to develop the organization over the last 18 months. Working day-by-day and hand-in-hand, I have gotten to know Bonnie on a personal and professional level. She is someone who makes every day of coming to work worthwhile, as she cares about the substance of the work as well as the wellbeing of others around her. She personifies what it is to lead, and acts as a role model to me, other staff, and everyone in the WCAPS network. In addition to the long list of achievements that make Bonnie imminently qualified for this role, she is a person that I trust to do the best she can and to do what's right. For these reasons, I believe Bonnie should be immediately confirmed to lead US efforts on arms control and international security. Neda M. Shaheen My beloved mentor Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins, Founder and Immediate Past Exec. Director of WCAPS is justly due the immediate Senate confirmation to fully embody the role of the U.S. Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs as she was appointed to do in January 2021 by U.S. President Joe Biden. IssaBella Smith Solomón 11
The world is facing serious challenges in the nuclear domain, all of which makes Ambassador Jenkins' nomination essential for our foreign and national security. Similarly, the Senate is making a statement about diversity when it ratifies the nomination in an expedient manner. The Senate would have never delayed the process for other public servants, like Henry Kissinger or Douglas Dillon. Arturo Sotomayor Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins is an expert in her field who understands the significance of protecting her country and the future. She has the utmost experience in security, international affairs, and building multilateral agreements. Adia Stuart The world of arms control and international security is rapidly changing. America needs someone who not only has a depth and breadth of experience germane to the field, but the vision to identify and act upon emerging trends to aid American efforts in peacekeeping, power projection, and sustainability. Ambassador Jenkins is a proven concept and will guide US efforts with integrity, tact, wisdom, and acumen. Jasmine Sturdifen As a part of Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security and Conflict Transformation (WCAPS), her ongoing legacy inspires us and we recognize her ability, integrity, knowledge, and expertise in the field of international security as she provides opportunities and resources for our professional development in the same field. Supriya Tamang Ambassador Jenkins is among the best of her generation. She has the knowledge, skills, experience and contacts necessary to succeed in this role and should be confirmed at once, given the current events that require her expertise! Daphne Michelle Titus Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins is an expert on arms control and nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Among her numerous positions, she served as Special Envoy and Coordinator for Threat Reduction Programs in the Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation (ISN), U.S. Department of State (DOS), from 2009-2017, during the Obama administration. Ambassador Jenkins is the consummate leader. As the Founder and Former Executive Director of the organization, Women of Color 12
Advancing Peace, Security and Conflict Transformation (WCAPS) from 2017 to 2021, her leadership has been instrumental in helping to redefine national security so that it best represents and is more inclusive of all people, regardless of gender, race or ethnicity, sexual orientation, ability or other interesting characteristics. In January 2021, Ambassador Jenkins and WCAPS were named as the 2020 Arms Control Association’s Persons of the Year. Ambassador Jenkins is ready and prepared to serve as the Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security. Please confirm her nomination soonest. This office deserves her leadership NOW. Carolyn Washington
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