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Equity Matters: Philanthropy in the Crosshairs - Confronting the Perpetual Backlash Against Justice and Democracy
You're Invited!
December 4, 2025 1:30 p.m. ET
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Join philanthropic leaders, foundation program officers, policy officials, researchers, advocates, and community-based organizations for an interactive virtual discussion that will examine the role of philanthropy in advancing civil and human rights, racial and economic justice, and multiracial democracy in the face of political retrenchment, legal threats, and backlash. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the risks foundations face, explore practical strategies for values-aligned giving, and consider how to build authentic partnerships with nonprofits and community-led movements to resist authoritarianism and protect equity-driven progress.
Featured Speakers:
* Carmen Rojas - President and CEO, Marguerite Casey Foundation
* Edgar Villanueva - Founder and CEO, Decolonizing Wealth Project and Liberated Capital; Author, Decolonizing Wealth
* Ashleigh Gardere - President, PolicyLink
* Monica Parisa Rabii - Vice President, Strategic Partnership Programs, NEO Philanthropy
* Damien Conners - Senior Program Officer for Defending Inclusive Democracy, Kettering Foundation
* Wendy Chun-Hoon - President and Executive Director, CLASP (moderator)
Among the issues we will explore:
* The chilling effect of political pressure on philanthropic giving toward racial, gender, and economic justice
* Historical and contemporary threats to foundation independence in politically volatile and unjust environments
* The legal, reputational, and operational risks foundations may face, and how to navigate them with courage and resolve
* The role of philanthropy in resisting authoritarianism and protecting the voices of marginalized communities
* Strategies to build trust and long-term partnerships between funders and frontline, community-led movements
Want to stay in the loop for more upcoming discussions and work in the Equity Matters series? Subscribe and join our email list for future updates below:
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CLASP • 1310 L St. NW, Suite 900 • Washington, D.C. xxxxxx • (202) 906-8000

CLASP
1310 L St. NW, Suite 900
Washington, DC xxxxxx
United States