September 10, 2025
In today’s newsletter, we examine many different aspects of resourcing the field—specifically looking at how nonprofits, social movements, and civil society as a whole can build a sound foundation on which democratic practices may flourish.
We begin with an article by three Black consulting firm leaders, who make the case that now is the time for nonprofits and philanthropy to dig deep and double down on racial justice goals. Today’s crises, they suggest, could set the conditions for future liberation. As the authors explain, “When forests burn, they create conditions for new growth. When fields lie fallow, they regenerate.”
The remaining articles each build on this theme. First, longtime nonprofit leader Jan Masaoka concludes her series on volunteerism by underscoring the connections between volunteering, nonprofits, self-provision, and democracy. Next, James Browning shares insights on how to avoid funding your opponents. Finally, Brea Baker writes about how relationships, community building, and storytelling can help resource movements to support multiracial democracy for the long haul.
As you read these accounts, I hope you get some ideas on how to resource both your own work and that of movement colleagues. As the authors of the articles featured today explain, we can get further together.
Steve Dubb
Senior Editor
Economic Justice
