Statement of Solidarity

Dear Friends,

Across the United States, people are claiming their rightful place on the front lines of a growing racial justice movement. We stand with those demanding justice for George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, Nina Pop, and the countless others whose lives have been cut short by anti-Blackness, systemic racism, and state-sanctioned violence.

In this time of renewed and vibrant resistance, we stand in solidarity and unity with the visionary and expansive Black and Afro-Indigenous led movements whose long-standing work builds collective power to challenge deep-rooted, structural racism and advance justice and liberation. We will continue our work to make it easier for these movements to access the resources they need to respond to opportunities and challenges in real time and on their own terms.

We recognize that philanthropy must recommit to challenging white supremacy and racism in a holistic and comprehensive way. We know that we must confront our own power, privilege, and biases as a philanthropic institution to better redistribute resources equitably and center the leadership of Black and Afro-Indigenous women, girls, and LGBTQI people most affected by structural injustice and overlooked by philanthropy.

This is a moment for philanthropy to meet movements with resources, willingness to take shared risks, and a collaborative spirit to collectively advance our shared vision of a world where all people are equally valued and lead self-determined lives.

In hope and solidarity,

Nicky McIntyre, CEO, and the FJS Board of Directors