Pamela Shifman

Investing in workplace organizing is one of the surest ways to build a thriving and inclusive American democracy — and disrupt movements that fuel division and dysfunction.

Grant makers that support efforts to strengthen American democracy and those committed to reproductive justice will be more effective if they see the connection between the two issues and work together to achieve their goals.

One year after the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, grant makers need a much more powerful response to the continuing spread of right-wing extremism. That should include more direct funding of political organizations and candidates — and a less exclusive focus on organizations with charity status.

Battles about the New York Times 1619 Project and other efforts to focus on systemic racism are now the hottest thing in the culture war. But foundations have been slow so far to recognize the threat.

If grant makers are serious about fighting racism, we need to take actions that help promote the growth of nonprofits led by people of color, according to Pamela Shifman, executive director of the NoVo Foundation

Nonprofits waging battles need unrestricted, long-term grants that give them the flexibility to deal with the threats ahead, write Jennifer and Peter Buffett and Pamela Shifman of the NoVo Foundation.

Ambitious foundation and government efforts similar to President Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper are urgently needed.