Uncertain Times, Unwavering Commitments

This blog is estimated to take 2 minutes to read.

As I stop and reflect on the year so far, I realize that while we as a foundation team have been quietly connecting with nonprofits impacted by the current federal changes, we have not come out and publicly shared our appreciation for and solidarity with our nonprofit partners. Our community is filled with many incredible nonprofits who are facing funding cuts, divisive rhetoric, and increased needs. Most of our nonprofit partners are feeling this right now, from the arts to advocacy organizations to direct service providers and beyond. We must publicly talk about the importance and value of nonprofits instead of being silent and fearful.  

As an organization we believe in equity for all, the critical importance of democracy, and the freedom to address the inequities in our history that continue today. These are all being threatened right now, with many of our nonprofit partners facing the brunt of these threats. As a foundation we want you to know that we see you, we stand with you, and we are here to work with you to protect these values we care about deeply.  

If you are reading this but don’t work in a nonprofit and are wondering “what can I do?” – take a moment and check-in first with the people in your life who may be most vulnerable right now. Then think about the organizations in our community that are on the front lines working with those most vulnerable and check-in with them. See what they need and how they can be supported. Creating a community of support is critical and is a tactic of resistance to division. There is strength in numbers!  

A recent statement from Candice Jones, CEO of the Public Welfare Foundation, has stuck with me as I think about the foundation’s role in this moment:  

“Bullies need only pick on the vulnerable and allow the chilling effect to intimidate the rest. If we refuse to stand up to and resist those tactics, then all is indeed already lost”.  

The Weitz Family Foundation is committed to resisting those tactics and supporting the many communities most vulnerable right now. We have and will continue to commit additional dollars this year to organizations meeting the challenges they are facing.

We are also interested in providing rest and joy as a form of resistance. If you have ideas about how to create spaces and communities to do this, please reach out to me at emily@weitzfamilyfoundation.org, I would love to talk with you!