Op-ed by LaDawn Sullivan*
August is Black Philanthropy Month. As we kick off this significant month, I reflect on the stories of resilience and generosity within our Black communities from my own upbringing, which I want to share with you. Black Philanthropy Month plays a vital role in building strong Black communities and has been a cornerstone of our history and culture.
Black giving is not a new phenomenon but a deeply rooted tradition passed down through generations. From the earliest days of slavery, our ancestors understood the power of collective support. They pooled their limited resources to help one another survive and resist oppression. During Jim Crow, the civil rights era and even today, this spirit of giving and mutual aid has continued to be a lifeline for our community.
One of the most profound examples of Black philanthropy is our investment in education. Historically, Black churches and organizations like the United Negro College Fund have played pivotal roles in providing educational opportunities for our youth.
Education has always been seen as a pathway to freedom and empowerment. Our giving builds schools, colleges and universities, brilliant scholars, inventors and leaders. We continue to invest in educational programs that uplift our children and provide them with the tools they need to succeed.
Look at your family tree and you will find your connection to giving back.
My grandmother, Ruth C. Denny, embodied this spirit of resilience and giving. She was on the frontlines of fair hiring and equal pay campaigns against Denver Dry Goods and Zone Cab, fighting for the rights and dignity of Black workers. She donated to small and large community non-profits. Her heart for investing in our community and unwavering commitment to uplifting others have been a guiding light in my life.
Inspired by her example, I founded the Black Resilience in Colorado (BRIC) Fund, a fund rooted in the same principles of collective support and empowerment that my grandmother championed. The BRIC Fund is dedicated to addressing systemic inequalities and fostering resilience within Colorado’s Black communities by providing resources and support to Black-led organizations and initiatives.
We advocate for Black-led and Black-serving nonprofits because they are critical in addressing systemic racism and building equitable communities. These organizations understand the unique challenges we face, and are best positioned to create meaningful change within our communities. By supporting these non-profits, we are tackling immediate issues and working towards long-term solutions that promote justice and equality.
In pursuit of these goals, we embrace the 5 Ts of philanthropy – time, talent, treasure, testimony, and ties—as essential elements in how we give. Our time is spent mentoring young people, volunteering in our communities and participating in local initiatives. We share our talents by offering skills and expertise to help others grow. Our treasures, whether large or small, are given with love and a commitment to making a difference. We offer our testimonies, sharing stories of triumph and perseverance to inspire future generations. Finally, we nurture ties within our community, strengthening the bonds that hold us together.
Embracing Black history and culture is crucial in how we invest in our communities. Our history is rich with examples of resilience and innovation, and our culture is a source of pride and strength. By honoring our past, we can build a future that reflects our values and aspirations. When we invest in Black economic opportunity, education, youth and culture, we are not just addressing immediate needs but laying the foundation for a brighter future.
According to data from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Black philanthropy invests significantly in key areas: approximately 35% in economic opportunity, 30% in education, 20% in youth development, and 15% in culture. These investments are not just financial; they represent a commitment to our collective well-being and progress.
As we continue to build and strengthen our communities, let us remember the legacy of Black giving that has brought us this far. Let us honor our ancestors by continuing to support one another and investing in our children’s future. Together, we can create a world where Black communities thrive and our contributions are recognized and celebrated.
It is essential to pass on the spirit and the act of giving to our children. By teaching them the value of generosity and community support, we ensure that the legacy of Black philanthropy continues to build and sustain strong Black communities for generations to come.
I invite you to join the Black Resilience in Colorado Fund by giving a contribution in celebration of Black Philanthropy Month. Your dollars will be matched up to $100,000 through the month of August 2024. Together, we can create the change we wish to see – BRIC by BRIC!
*Op-ed originally appeared in the Denver Urban Spectrum August 2024 issue pages 29-30.
Editor’s note: LaDawn Sullivan, Founder & Executive Director of the Black Resilience in Colorado Fund. To support the BRIC Fund visit www.denverfoundation .org/BlackResilience or https:// linktr.ee/BRIC_Fund.
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