Inside Philanthropy’s Post

Voter suppression isn't just about repressive state governments passing laws that make it harder to #vote. In #democracy friendly states, it can be as simple as local elected officials leaving the room en masse when a constituent is trying to speak to them. For Inside Philanthropy, here's a look at what The James B. McClatchy Foundation and Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation are doing to overcome some very region-specific hurdles standing in the way of #voters and their ability to exercise their franchise. From the piece: "What is certain is that the crises facing us with the 2024 election took decades to create. They will take decades to fix. What isn’t known, yet, is how many foundations and other funders will maintain the dedication and discipline required to help fix them." With many thanks to Priscilla Enriquez, Misty Avila Gereghty, and Sorien Schmidt for their time and input. #philanthropy #democracy #votingrights #AugustIsTooLate #systemicracism P.S.: Are you a funder supporting unique efforts to #GOTV, whether in local areas of pro-democracy states or to help citizens navigate voter-suppression laws in anti-democracy states? I want to hear from you: [email protected]

If you care about investing in the health of US elections & election infrastructure, early money is worth more than late-in-the-game money. Even if you're a smaller donor, follow the wisdom of the big dogs like Tides Foundation, and make your big moves Q1 and #AllByApril, with ongoing follow up as-needed investments.

Interested in learning more about investing in nonpartisan voter engagement? Check out this article written by my very talented colleague RACHEL TOWNSEND.

Democracy under threat by dark money A recent investigation by Americans for Public Trust has uncovered nearly $100 million ($97,593,151.38) in funding from the Sixteen Thirty Fund, supporting left-wing ballot issues across 25 states over the past decade. The report highlights the widespread influence of this major dark money PAC, which has poured millions into ballot initiatives affecting policies ranging from abortion rights to voting rights. "No corner of the United States has been untouched by Sixteen Thirty Fund's foreign money," the report states, citing high concentrations of funding in states like Michigan, Ohio, and Colorado. Even deep red states such as Arkansas and North Dakota have seen their ballot issues funded by Sixteen Thirty Fund, with donations from foreign-born billionaires like Pierre Omidyar and Hansjörg Wyss raising concerns about outside influence on American democracy. This eye-opening report sheds light on the ways in which radical globalists are undermining democracy and manipulating the will of the American people. Democracy is under threat not just in developing nations but in developed nations as well. https://lnkd.in/gvCG6FxU

Who is donating to candidates in general elections? Who are women supporting? What implications does this have for advancing women’s power and influence? The Center for American Women in Politics at Rutgers University explores the answers to these questions in their new report on donors at the state level—and the data is fascinating. Learn more:

Excited to share a piece I wrote for Divided We Fall, a non-profit news publication dedicated to promoting bipartisan dialogue on today's political issues. I, as well as many of you, want to see more civility and working together in politics, so am happy to work with them! The piece, Kamala Harris: A Fresh Opportunity ponders -- Can Kamala Harris Bridge the Generational Gap and Re-engage Disheartened Voters? https://lnkd.in/gnqug6b8

This is so powerful.

🇺🇸 Happy 4th of July! A Call to Civic Engagement As we celebrate our nation’s independence today, let’s also remember the importance of being civically engaged. The 4th of July is not just about fireworks and barbecues—it’s a reminder of the values our country was founded upon and the ongoing responsibility we all share in shaping its future. Why Civic Engagement Matters: 1. Strengthens Democracy: Our democracy thrives when every voice is heard. Voting, participating in community meetings, and staying informed are crucial to ensuring our government represents us all. 2. Builds Community: Civic engagement fosters a sense of community and connection. Volunteering, supporting local initiatives, and engaging in dialogue with neighbors help build stronger, more resilient communities. 3. Promotes Accountability: Holding our leaders accountable through active participation ensures transparency and integrity in our government. 4. Drives Change: Grassroots movements and civic actions have historically driven significant social and political change. Your involvement can make a difference on issues you care about. How to Get Involved: • Vote: Make your voice heard in local, state, and national elections. • Volunteer: Find opportunities to give back to your community. • Stay Informed: Follow credible news sources and engage in discussions about current events. • Advocate: Support causes and policies that align with your values by contacting your representatives and joining advocacy groups. Let’s Celebrate Our Freedom by Taking Action: Today, as we commemorate the birth of our nation, let’s also recommit to being active, engaged citizens. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive, and vibrant democracy. Happy Independence Day! 🇺🇸 #FourthOfJuly #CivicEngagement #Democracy #Community #Volunteer #Vote #IndependenceDay #USA #Citizenship

So inspiring to have the opportunity to partner with my colleague RACHEL TOWNSEND and others (like Denali Raforth and Elise Nicholl) to produce this urgent piece about why funders shouldn't wait to get dollars out the door in support of nonpartisan civic and voter engagement. Laying the groundwork for an informed, engaged electorate and building trust in communities doesn't just happen; it takes hard work, early and often--and well before each election. Check out the blog for three reasons why the time is now. https://lnkd.in/eWTNzzEu

“…if we’re going to solve some of these deeply entrenched problems in our society, nonprofits will need to focus on moving the levers of power. These levers include 1. electing more progressive women of color into office 2. changing the tax code so rich people and corporations pay their fair share, 3. reversing Citizens United and making other efforts to reduce the influence of corporations on politics, 4. changing the narratives and conversations people are having so they’re not so easily manipulated by misinformation, fear, and bigotry. And 5. protecting and advancing voting and voting rights.”