Latest News at NCG
Housing Justice: Organizing, Power Building, and Opportunities for Philanthropy
There are few communities that haven’t been impacted by homelessness, and while jurisdictions grapple with possible resolutions, we know that criminalizing unhoused people is not the solution to this growing problem. The real solution lies in addressing the root causes of poverty and homelessness, implementing a strategy to increase the production and preservation of affordable housing units, including extremely low income and no income housing, and protecting tenants so that they can maintain stable housing and keep from slipping into homelessness.
Reflection on Black Futures, Black Freedom, and Democracy
Last week we celebrated Black futures and explored how we achieve a multiracial democracy that centers Black people. Northern California Grantmakers (NCG) and California Black Freedom Fund (CBFF) have been scheming to bring something to philanthropy for a while. More than 200 folks joined us to have some challenging conversations about the legacy of systemic racism, how it impacts today, and how we turn the corner and build a democracy that serves us all.
Grieving Loss + Embodying Solidarity
In the wake of recent violence in Half Moon Bay, Monterey Park, and Memphis I hope you are finding opportunities to collectively grieve and honor the lives of Asian, Latino, and Black community members tragically lost. At NCG we have been sitting with the heaviness of this grief. We extend empathy and solidarity to those who mourn the loss of loved ones and those supporting the injured to heal from these profoundly traumatic acts of violence.
California Winter Storms
California is experiencing a series of repeated atmospheric river events that are leading to flooding, power outages, and mudslides across much of the state.
Announcing Semiyah Constantino as Digital Engagement Associate
NCG is pleased to welcome a new member to its growing team! Semiyah Constantino (she/her) joins as the Digital Engagement Associate to help with all aspects of communications. Semiyah has experience leading publishing and design, rebranding, and most recently was a Digital Marketing Apprentice at COOP Careers advancing her digital skills.
Oakland Measure W: Fair Elections Oakland | 2022 Mid-Term Elections
There is a new opportunity to allow Oakland residents the chance to participate in elections with a public campaign financing program. The initiative is modeled off of a similar, successful effort in Seattle. In the 2022 mid-term election, voters have a role in supporting this effort to combat large corporate and interest group campaign financing – passing this proposition is a vital step toward democratizing campaign funding.
Action Guide | Public Policy
Midterm elections provide voters the opportunity to assess and signal if the current presidential administration, federal elected officials, and local elected leaders are meeting their needs. This November, California voters will have the opportunity to cast their votes and determine the make-up of the Senate and House through the next presidential election in 2024. All eligible California voters will receive an election guide and a mail-in ballot.
Taking the Heat off Marginalized Communities: Disparities in Extreme Heat
We all have felt the impact of heat waves this summer, but the costs and stakes are different across communities and neighborhoods in California. While temperatures rise in California, so do extreme heat illnesses and heat mortality. Those most impacted are unlikely to live in cooler coastal communities, or have access to air-conditioned homes.