The Racial Equity Advancement and Defense Initiative (READI)

A collaborative effort led by ABFE, in partnership with Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy, Hispanics in Philanthropy, and Native Americans in Philanthropy. Our main goal is to promote, expand, and defend race-explicit grantmaking and programming, ensuring that equity remains at the forefront of philanthropic efforts across diverse communities.

The Urgency of READI

In 2023, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) issued a ruling that banned the use of race as a determining factor in higher education admissions. This decision has emboldened right-wing groups to challenge racial equity policies and programs across various sectors, including public, corporate, philanthropic, and nonprofit organizations. In response, some philanthropic organizations are grappling with whether to retreat from or reinforce their commitment to racial equity. READI was established to ensure that the momentum toward equity does not falter but instead, gains strength in the face of adversity.

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What We’re Doing

Our Strategy for Impact

We understand that SCOTUS’ decision is part of a long history of resistance against efforts to create a truly inclusive, multi-racial, and multi-ethnic democracy. Our goal is to prevent the rollback of racial equity efforts within the philanthropic sector and to ensure that investments aimed at addressing systemic racism and other forms of discrimination in communities of color continue to grow. To meet this critical moment and to support long-term strategies for racial equity, READI has developed a comprehensive approach that includes:

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Legal Fund for Nonprofits
We provide financial support to nonprofits that face legal challenges due to their race-explicit grantmaking or programming, ensuring they have access to necessary legal counsel.
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Pro-Bono Legal Support
READI promotes pro bono legal services from the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law and Legal, Education, Advocacy and Defense for Racial Justice (LEAD) of the California Black Freedom Fund to ensure nonprofits advancing racial equity have access to legal counsel.
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READI Resource Bank
Our initiative includes a robust Resource Bank, offering tools and resources to nonprofits engaged in race-explicit grantmaking or programming, helping them navigate the complex legal and social landscape.
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Communications Campaign
We are launching a communications campaign aimed at reaching philanthropic decision-makers, encouraging them to deepen and expand their commitments to race-explicit grantmaking and programming.

Navigating Challenges

Key Considerations

The Audacity of Hope 2.0 & Building on ABFE’s Legacy of Resistance

Explore how ABFE is transforming hope into actionable strategies amid a historic political climate. Our latest article delves into the powerful role of Black philanthropy and ABFE’s legacy of resistance. Discover how collective action and strategic initiatives are shaping the future of racial equity. Don’t miss this insightful read!

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