Friends,
It is a simple truth for those of us deeply invested in movements for justice and dignity: there’s always work to be done. We must continue our collective efforts to build a more just, more inclusive world, and we must be ambitious and hopeful in order to do so. The days and weeks after an election–as we wait for ALL votes to be counted–are just as impactful and important as the days and weeks before an election.
That’s because the work of movement building requires whole-hearted commitment, day in and day out. Our relationships, our efforts, and our people endure through media frenzies and quiet moments.
Right now, all across the country in places and spaces closest to our communities, the work continues to defend and advance our collective vision.
We must be realistic that those who may be immediately at risk are the ones building and driving movements. We will likely see it in the level of threat against those fighting to keep immigrant communities safe. And against those working to keep abortion accessible and affordable, against those seeking to defend democracy and voting rights, and against those working to protect LGBTQIA+ rights.
At NEO Philanthropy, we are clear-eyed about the challenges ahead of us and we are unwavering partners in these fights–on democracy and voting rights, immigration, reproductive freedom, and more–just as we have been for more than 40 years. In that time, we’ve learned that philanthropy succeeds most when we invest early and consistently in power building with long-term vision.
There is not a straight line to progress. And I know the hard work that’s ahead. But we know what’s at stake and who will be in harm’s way. That is why we don’t give up.
Now is the time to recommit to showing up, to shifting resources where they will do the most good, and to building up the infrastructure to sustain the work for our future.
The work that we support will be contested in every way imaginable and we must at this moment continue to support those leading these courageous efforts across the country at the local and state level.
Here are three ways we’re acting right now to set the foundation for tomorrow’s progress:
Supporting NEO Philanthropy projects focused on diverse issues including reproductive freedom, racial justice, and more.
Investing in the Four Freedoms Fund’s newly formed rapid response, pooled fund to protect immigrant families and communities.
Driving resources to community-based groups striving for a multi-racial democracy, advancing voting rights, and increasing civic engagement through the State Infrastructure Fund.
I hope you’ll join us and commit to this fight for tomorrow, today.
In solidarity,
Michele Lord, President, NEO Philanthropy
