Black-led Nonprofits: Reflections and Actions for Funders

Juneteenth holds a profound significance in recognizing the journey to freedom, reflecting on the past, and understanding the ongoing struggle for racial equity. This observance offers a chance to celebrate progress and acknowledge that the path toward equality and justice still stretches far ahead. On June 20th, Resilia, a leading tech for good company, hosted an inspiring discussion commemorating Juneteenth with leaders from the nonprofit sector.

This event brought together Black women nonprofit leaders in a thought-provoking conversation centered on creating impact and actionable strategies for philanthropic leaders to support Black-led nonprofits and their communities better. Resilia's panel featured Lisa Jenkins, Founder, and Zanitra Wells, Executive Director, of Why Not Legacy and Heritage—an organization dedicated to preserving African-American history—and Tytiana Wilson, Executive Assistant of Urban Community Network, which promotes safe, healthy, and sustainable communities where youth and their families can thrive. Moderated by Resilia's Todd Pittman, Director of Community Impact, the goal of this gathering was an action-based reflection on how funders can do more to support the critical work of Black-led nonprofits.

The Importance of Juneteenth: Freedom and Community 

For many Black Americans, Juneteenth is a day of freedom and unity. Lisa Jenkins shared, "Juneteenth is community. It brings the community together to show their stories about their loved ones. And it also means talking about how we live today compared to back then." Juneteenth represents an opportunity for families to gather, share stories, and celebrate their legacies. It serves as a reminder of the progress made and the challenges ahead.

Juneteenth holds personal significance for individuals with ancestral ties to Texas and the legacy of slavery. Zanitra Wells said, "It is the day of beginning to recognize our journey to freedom." Being a fifth-generation Texan, she emphasized the importance of honoring the sacrifices and enduring the generations of slavery that their ancestors experienced. Taking time to rest and express gratitude for their ancestors' work becomes a significant aspect of this commemoration.

The Power of Inclusive Education, Effective Messaging, and Amplifying Black History

While celebrating national moments like Black History Month and Juneteenth is essential, remaining aware of the ongoing struggle for equality is crucial. Participants in the webinar agreed that there is still a long way to go. Lisa Jenkins said, "We've come a long way in recognizing the work and contributions of Black Americans, but we still have a long way to go toward full equality." Inclusive education is pivotal in bridging the gap between celebration and understanding. 

By framing the education surrounding Juneteenth and Black History Month in a relatable and easily understandable manner, we can ensure that the significance behind these celebrations is fully grasped, fostering a stronger sense of unity and purpose. Lisa Jenkins passionately expressed that Black history should be celebrated every day, as it is an integral part of our shared human history. She shared, "Our youth need to know about their history. We need to continue telling the stories to our youth so they won't make the mistakes that some of our forefathers made." The importance of passing down stories, accomplishments, and struggles from generation to generation was emphasized, urging individuals to listen to their grandparents and learn about their ancestors' experiences.

Supporting Black-led Nonprofits for Sustainable Change

During the discussion, leaders shared how their organizations have historically faced significant barriers and limited access to the funding required for their sustainability and growth. Recognizing this disparity, participants emphasized the critical role of funders in addressing this issue and providing better support. Zanitra Wells highlighted the importance of long-term funding and the need for growth, involvement, visibility, and stability in supporting these Black-led and serving organizations.

Tytiana Wilson echoed the importance of sustained sponsorship and emphasized the need for funders to establish a genuine connection and rapport with the communities they aim to serve. She stressed that building this connection is essential for understanding the experiences and needs of the community and effectively supporting their work. She emphasized the importance of objective engagement, where funders offer valuable perspectives that advance the work of Black-led nonprofits.

The participants collectively recognized that supporting Black-led nonprofits goes beyond simply writing a check. True support requires working within communities, building lasting relationships, and actively contributing to pursuing racial equity and justice. By embracing going beyond the check and fostering a genuine connection with the communities they support, funders can play a pivotal role in empowering Black-led nonprofits, helping them dismantle systemic barriers, and creating sustainable change.

Four ways that funders can support Black-led nonprofits:

• Educate and Engage: Funders should actively seek self-education about the challenges Black-led organizations face, especially those led by and serving women, and strive to comprehend their unique perspectives and needs.

• Evaluate Funding Strategies: Foundations must assess their current funding strategies, ensuring they prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion at every level. Sustained support through multi-year funding commitments is essential for Black-led nonprofits to thrive.  

• Amplify Voices: Funders possess powerful platforms and networks that can amplify the voices of Black-led and serving nonprofits. Sharing their stories, initiatives, and successes raises awareness and inspires others to support their missions.

• Go Beyond the Check: Funders can be valuable partners, not just names on a check. Funders can support Black-led nonprofits, especially Black women leaders, by offering introductions, making connections, and finding new ways to support grantee organizations. Resilia offers valuable resources, expertise, training programs, and technology solutions that can enhance the capacity and impact of Black-women-led nonprofits. By leveraging Resilia's offerings, funders can maximize the effectiveness of their support.

Juneteenth: A Day of Action and Reflection highlighted the importance of recognizing Juneteenth as a significant milestone in racial equality. Participants emphasized the need for both celebration and ongoing acknowledgment of persisting struggles. We can achieve a more equitable future by integrating inclusive education, amplifying Black history, and supporting Black-led nonprofits. Resilia's commitment to supporting these organizations further strengthens the collective effort to create lasting change and dismantle systemic discrimination.

Take action now and empower Black-led nonprofits by diving deep into Resilia's groundbreaking Funder Program.