1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

The planned destruction of $9.7 million worth of USAID-purchased contraceptives is a deeply concerning decision that fails to prioritize people over profits and ignores the urgent need for reproductive healthcare worldwide. These essential supplies were procured with taxpayer funds to empower women and protect their health, and burning them is an egregious waste that directly contradicts these values. Rather than incineration, the ethical choice is to redirect these contraceptives to organizations working on the ground in underserved communities, where access to family planning resources is desperately needed. By exploring alternative distribution channels, we can ensure these vital supplies reach those who need them most without further jeopardizing their well-being through needless destruction. This callous disregard for human life must be re-evaluated through a lens of compassion and a commitment to using public resources responsibly to uplift the most vulnerable populations.