Did you know that despite their immense contributions, Black Women-led movements have faced systemic oppression and chronic underfunding?

In this captivating episode, we bring to light this critical reality. Brace yourself for an empowering journey as we explore the experiences and perspectives of Nekima Armstrong, Dr. Maria S. Johnson, Tyeshia Ty Wilson, and Nicole Robinson. Together they delve into the shortcomings of institutional philanthropy and unlock innovative solutions for creating equitable funding opportunities. From the crucial need for rest and recognition to the transformative impact of advocacy and Black Women's Giving Circles, this episode will leave you inspired to support and amplify these remarkable movements.

Join us as we unveil the hidden power of Black Women-led movements and ignite a spark for lasting change and empowerment.

[00:00 - 09:02] Voices of Empowerment and Advocacy

• Nekima Armstrong is joined by Nicole R Robinson, Maria Johnson, and Maria Johnson to discuss black women's funding in philanthropy
• Dr. Maria S. Johnson created the Black Women and Girls Fund, which distributes grants exclusively to black women founded LED serving organizations
• Taisha Wilson assumes the role of chair-elect for the Heritage Giving Fund, which supports small grassroots organizations led by black women
• Nicole Robinson serves as the CEO of the YWCA of Metro Chicago, an organization dedicated to eradicating racism and empowering women
• The conversation centers around the current state of institutional funding for black women, utilizing language that highlights the challenges and opportunities present within this context

[09:02 - 18:08] Supporting the Liberation of Thought, Expression, and Opportunity for Rest

• Funding is provided for rest, retreats, vacations, and sabbaticals, aiming to support individuals in replenishing their energy and well-being
• A dedicated economic dream fund is established to empower Black women in realizing their aspirations and unlocking their dreams
• Organizations receive general operating funds to ensure they have the necessary resources, including HR and finance, to operate smoothly
• Emphasis is placed on the liberation of thought, expression, imagination, and opportunities, promoting freedom and growth
• Black women and girls are given the space to explore their futures with creativity and imagination, fostering innovative thinking

[18:09 - 26:01] Reflections on the Peak Grant-Making Conference in Baltimore

• Proposed a spark talk at the Peak Grant Making Conference in Baltimore, advocating for the creation of a Black Women's Justice Fund
• A sense of community and appreciation for the unacknowledged efforts carried out behind the scenes permeated the atmosphere
• The aesthetics of Black women as essential components of culture, labor, and contribution were prominently highlighted
• Data was meticulously presented, showcasing the impactful movements spearheaded by Black women
• The message emphasized the significance of investing in and relying upon the strength and capabilities of Black women

[26:01 - 34:02] Dorothy Height's Leadership and Initiatives Empowering Black Women within the YWCA

• It is imperative to ensure the inclusion of black women in leadership roles and facilitate their access to institutional funding
• The inception of the Black Women's Giving Circle aimed to invest in organizations led by Black women, specifically focusing on delivering programs that cater to the needs of Black women and girls residing in the south side of Chicago
• The Queen Makers initiative emerged as a transformative force in the community, dedicated to nurturing leaders in the nonprofit sector and fostering the establishment of new businesses
• Dorothy Height, as the pioneering racial justice chair at the YWCA, orchestrated a clandestine gathering of black women from various YWCAs. This secret meeting served as a platform to discuss matters of equity and advocate for equality within the organization

[34:03 - 42:14] YWCA's Activism and the Empowering Force of the Heritage Giving Fund

• The YWCA placed the elimination of racism as its central objective, embodying an unwavering commitment
• The activism carried out by the YWCA stands unparalleled, showcasing their relentless dedication to addressing racial injustice
• The imperative of race and equity lies in the transformative act of shifting power dynamics, promoting inclusivity and justice
• The ongoing culture war and the erosion of civility have contributed to fatigue in discussions surrounding race and the persistence of white supremacy
• The establishment of the Heritage Giving Fund emerged as a driving force to encourage black philanthropy, provide funding for organizations led by black women, and offer comprehensive support beyond financial resources

[42:15 - 50:08] The Heritage Giving Fund's Advocacy and the Strength of Giving Circles

• The Heritage Giving Fund was established six years ago and has recently expanded its mission to include advocacy, further enhancing its impact
• Giving circles are a powerful tool that often goes overlooked, but they serve as ramps for civic engagement and strengthen democracy
• Giving circles bring people together in an intentional and strategic way to support causes they care about
• The Heritage Giving Fund, currently consisting of 57 members, demonstrates its agility and adaptability, actively seeking opportunities for growth and increased influence
• Maria took the initiative to establish her own donor-advised fund, enabling her to empower others to contribute on a larger scale, amplifying the impact of their giving efforts

[50:08 - 57:36] Baltimore Community Foundation's Fund and Trust-Based Philanthropy

• The Baltimore Community Foundation has been selected as the designated organization to establish a fund exclusively dedicated to supporting black women and girls
• There is a deliberate focus on funding initiatives that authentically prioritize the needs and aspirations of black women, reflecting a genuine passion for their advancement
• The fund operates with an unrestricted approach, allowing flexibility in allocating resources while maintaining a brief and streamlined application process to minimize burdens on applicants
• Knowledge-sharing sessions and meetups are organized to facilitate meaningful discussions on topics of significance for operating nonprofit organizations
• Giving circles, predominantly led by black women, have embraced a trust-based philanthropy model, fostering a sense of empowerment and collective support

Connect with Tyeshia Through Linkedin

Connect with Nicole Through Linkedin

Connect with Maria Through Linkedin

Did you know this episode has a video? You can find this episode and more on YouTube. Subscribe and show us some love in the comments! 

Join the movement for justice and power with the "Justice & Power'' podcast. Listen to stimulating conversations on tough topics affecting Black and Brown America with host Nekima Levy Armstrong. Reach out to us on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. To know more about us connect with us at Wayfinder Foundation and www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com. Let's make change happen together!

Quotes: 

"We don't have to wait for somebody else to show up. Why not do it now?" - Nekima Armstrong

"Much of the world we know, we've been out here doing the work, but nobody is checking on our wellbeing. Nobody is gonna check for black women and girls." - Tyeshia Ty Wilson

"It is not just about black women starting something or any group startup, it's really about creating practices that are liberatory, that are authentic, and welcoming to the grantee partners. That's treating them as experts." - Maria Johnson

 "We'll never get to gender equity, economic equity, we'll never get to educational equity, or any of these things until we deal with racism." - Nicole R Robinson