Dennis K. Hays
October 7, 2026
Subject: Grievance Board message
Dear President Dinkelman:
As a former President of AFSA and much later a member of the Foreign Service Labor Relations Board (FSLRB) I have on many occasions fought to ensure the rights and privileges of the Foreign Service and the Association. This includes the right of AFSA to have a voice in the appointment of individuals to selected boards and organizations.
Unfortunately, the recent AFSA statement on Grievance Board appointments severely undercuts AFSA's claim to be an independent professional and non-partisan organization working to protect ALL of its members. The gratuitous attempt to demonize former members of the Foreign Service - in bold print no less - is both disgraceful and counterproductive. It’s important to understand what the issue is and then to pick the right fight.
The Ben Franklin Fellowship has brought long overdue balance and much needed perspective to the State Department. Its members have served with distinction and purpose, and its members chosen to serve on the Grievance Board have demonstrated a long-term commitment to the success of the Foreign Service and the protection of its members. We are fortunate to have them.
AFSA is strongest when it is - and is seen to be - a professional and non-partisan organization dedicated to serving the diplomatic interests of the United States. Full stop.
Sincerely,
Dennis
Ambassador Dennis K. Hays (ret.)
President, Junior Foreign Service Officers Caucus 1979 - 1981
President, American Foreign Service Association 1982 -1985
Member, Foreign Service Labor Relations Board 2018 - 2024
Fellow, Ben Franklin Fellowship, 2024 - present
