Every day, and it feels like every hour, a new headline comes out of Washington about policy changes and executive orders with profound implications for people throughout our country–including this week’s news about the Trump administration pausing all federal grants, which was quickly rescinded with a myriad of questions remaining.
These efforts to “flood the zone” seem intended to stoke chaos and fear and ultimately unravel the social compact that brings us together for a common good.
It is important for us to lift up that, amid this profound uncertainty, we are seeing countless examples of nonprofits, colleagues, and partners within the social sector working to meet this moment. Philanthropy is also stepping up. Bloomberg Philanthropies and other climate funders announced they will take over the US’ contributions in support of the Paris Agreement.
Four identity-based Philanthropy Serving Organizations (PSOs) – ABFE (A Philanthropy Partnership for Black Communities), Hispanics in Philanthropy, Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy, and Native Americans in Philanthropy – issued an impactful statement debunking the myth that race-based funding and DEI efforts hurt our society, and urging philanthropy to “own our influence.” And in Massachusetts, funders such as Point32Health Foundation are making big investments in social, racial, and health inequities through generous grants to nonprofit organizations across the state.
Our message to you is this: Philanthropy was built for this moment. And it is important that we step into the void, lead without fear, and stand in solidarity with those nonprofits who are fighting for equity, justice, and opportunity for all. Philanthropy Massachusetts stands shoulder to shoulder with you.
In the weeks ahead, we will be sharing additional resources and providing opportunities for our members to convene, learn from one another, and decide strategically a path forward, together.
I know that, together, we can keep funds flowing to local communities and continue to stand up for human rights and dignity.
Please continue to share your ideas, concerns, and questions with us as we move forward together.