When Nonprofits are under attack, Philanthropy must have their back

As we face the current federal political regime, and deal with the havoc being inflicted from the top down, philanthropy is in a unique position to support our nonprofit partners working tirelessly to serve communities, protect progressive public policies and programs, and stave off the harmful repercussions of administrative and congressional actions. Last year, we saw a clear attempt to stifle political dissent through federal legislation that would have granted the executive branch power to dismantle any organization it deems as a “terrorist supporting” organization. While HR 9495 did not pass the Senate, the proposal was a chilling harbinger of what we can anticipate in the future, and sounded the alarm for how we must collectively respond. 

The nonprofit sector already faces many challenges, and organizations working for social change, racial justice, reproductive rights, immigrant rights, LGBTQ+ rights, abolition, liberation in Palestine and other causes are now under increased threat from the authoritarian posture of the new federal administration. Even in Northern California, we’ve seen these dynamics play out in different ways. From heightened public scrutiny, shifting regulatory requirements, to decreased program funding, organizations must stay nimble and able to adapt to adverse circumstances. Our nonprofit partners rely on philanthropy to support them as they navigate these challenges. Philanthropy must not allow fear, uncertainty and risk aversion to immobilize us from reaffirming our values, practicing solidarity, and taking action. In this discussion, speakers will outline the various ways movement organizations are at risk, what must be done to protect them and the sector at-large, and ways philanthropy must move with courage, not cower at this critical moment.