When Philanthropy Hits Pause but the Grassroots Can’t
There’s a growing tension in the pro-democracy space that we cannot afford to ignore: grassroots organizers are pushing forward with urgency, while philanthropy is hitting pause.
Philanthropy is frustrated. They’ve spent the last decade pouring millions into preventing exactly what’s happening now, and yet, here we are. So now they’re holding back, waiting for democracy movement 2.0 – fresh strategies, new ideas, a different approach – before they reinvest. At the same time, they’re also worried about retribution and retaliation if they push too aggressively.
Grassroots organizers and civic groups are frustrated. They don’t have the luxury of waiting. They need to act, and they need to act fast. But as we all know, funding has slowed or stalled, and they’re freaking frustrated. They’re being told to adapt and build new strategies, but it’s hard to do that when resources are locked up and organizations are struggling to stay afloat while the threats keep accelerating.
So how do we deal with this very real tension that needs urgent attention?
This moment calls for two things at once:
Immediate, rapid-response financial support so organizations can keep moving and keep strategizing on how to build the ‘big tent’ movement 2.0 – all while still keeping their thumb plugged into the dam before it all breaks.
A culture shift. Philanthropy shouldn’t just fund initiatives; it should be a part of the effort to build a more cohesive and resilient movement. That does not mean getting in the way or inserting themselves into work on the ground - absolutely not! But, philanthropy, like movement organizers, should be regrouping, strategizing, and figuring out how to be part of the 2.0 effort in a way that strengthens the movement.
Cause ya, let’s be real, everyone wants to be the one who saves the day. Funders want to back the next brilliant idea. Those on the ground want to lead the defining initiative. But our democracy won’t be saved by one person, one organization, or one project. It will take a movement strong enough — and financed enough — to withstand what’s coming.
