GIFT Political Framework

In an era of unfettered global capitalism and a sharply widening gap between rich and poor, we believe that people of color have been historically and systematically excluded from controlling our own economic bases. GIFT seeks to redress historic racial and economic inequalities through the growth of progressive social movement organizations to build movements for justice.

We believe that social justice organizations should be “owned” by the grassroots communities they serve. Ownership means that the community provides significant support to the organization. This means that support comes from diverse sources, and that it takes the form of monetary and other contributions. The community should support the organization’s program and budget: the organization should be accountable to the community and serve the community’s needs. Ownership also means that the poor and people of color are responsible for all aspects of the organization including leadership, financial management and fundraising.

• The financial support of an organization or movement is a key indicator of true ownership and interest by communities.

• Financial contributions to organizations can and should be made by people on ALL income levels. The poor and working class can and should help to finance their own liberation.

We also believe that social justice requires more than “ownership” of community organizations. It also requires a critical analysis of race, money, wealth and power as well as the development and implementation of strategies for social change.

A key economic power is the ability to raise funds for causes that benefit the disenfranchised, who are disproportionately of color.

• People of color are critically under-represented as fundraisers and as donors for non-profit organizations.

Our aim is to help build a diverse movement for justice that is based on the fundamental principle of self-determination for the poor and people of color. This movement stands in opposition to the devastation caused by economic policies of globalization and their attendant racism, classism, homophobia, sexism and ableism.

• We want to strengthen organizations and individuals that also embrace this belief.

We believe that social justice organizations should and can be less dependent on foundations and corporations for financial support.

• Most money given to non-profits comes from individuals.

• Foundations can influence the direction and focus of organizations and can move an organization away from its mission.

• Corporate giving is motivated by publicity and the bottom line, not community needs.

We present this political framework to provide an understanding of the larger vision and goals of the Grassroots Institute for Fundraising Training. It guides all our activities and programs, and we incorporate these beliefs into our curricula.