The first of its’ kind, the Indiana University Black Philanthropy Circle (BPC) formed in 2017. With education at the forefront and the premise that Black Americans must be at the table to address their own needs, the BPC recognizes the needs and challenges resulting from systematic injustices faced by Blacks in the United States of America.
Noted by Dr. King, philanthropy is not just about giving, but also about problem-solving to make the world a better place. Philanthropic organizations must ensure policies and practices address the economic inequalities that further disparities making philanthropy necessary for all communities to thrive and reiterates the importance of developing a charitable focus to address these very needs!
The past few days of discord, hurt, outcries, and destruction have provided a stark reality demanding that organizations examine ways they can ensure that fundraising and giving outcomes do not reinforce inequality. Persons of color lead less than 9% of foundations in the United States, resulting in less than 7% of foundation grant awards going to support communities of color. Let us not lose sight of the challenges we face. Instead, please accept this Call to Action and identify an organization dedicated to the well-being of the Black community and offer your talents, time, and treasures to ensure that their mission thrives.
This Call to Action asks us to give of ourselves in any way comfortable. The BPC invites you to act on this call to ensure the final impressions from our cries are not that of destruction but giving. Let us do our part to close the racial gaps in philanthropy and help build a system in our country that protects life, liberty, and a presumption of innocence that will provide justice for us all.”