According to a report from National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy, since 2012 there has been an 11 percent shrinkage in philanthropic funding towards immigrant movement groups. While there was an uptick in rapid response funding between 2017 and 2018, this has not created the conditions for the long term sustainability of immigrant serving organizations.
In this critical election year, over 60 anti-immigrant bills have been introduced in state legislatures nationwide. Immigrant advocacy groups – already facing a myriad of historically systemic challenges such as burnout, unlivable wages, and hostile state level political environments – are facing this wave of anti-immigrant sentiment, often at the sacrifice of their own safety and well being. And while philanthropic interest has focused on the national elections and scenario planning, movement groups are already planning for 2025 and an uncertain future regardless of presidential election outcome. Philanthropy must not only meet this moment but also invest in the critical infrastructure needs of organizations and movements, particularly at the local and state levels.
As right wing movements seek to undermine our democracy on all fronts, immigrant communities cannot be left behind and must be included in any political, social, or philanthropic efforts that seek to build a multi-racial democracy. Built through the collaborative efforts of GCIR and NCRP, this briefing will feature a panel of speakers representing nonprofit organizations working on the front lines to strengthen our democracy and advance immigrant rights in their communities. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear what groups need as we move into 2025 and beyond, directly from movement leaders.