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Author: Jennifer R Farmer

Advancement Project Celebrates 25 Years of Social, Racial Justice Advocacy

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WASHINGTON D.C. – With nearly 200 people in attendance, Advancement Project celebrated its 25th anniversary at the Rubell Museum in Washington D.C. on December 5. Advancement Project is a next generation, multi-racial civil rights organization that seeks to fulfill America’s promise of creating a caring, inclusive and multi-racial democracy.

For decades, the national racial justice organization has supported grassroots groups on the frontlines of major movements for education justice, climate justice, police reform, democracy, voting rights, redistricting and immigrant justice. They were a pioneering force in elevating the school-to-prison pipeline to the national discourse. Advancement Project also was on the ground in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, helping to ensure that the voices of survivors were heard during the reconstruction process.

Founded in 1999 by former NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund attorneys, Constance L. Rice, Penda Hair, Molly Munger, and Stephen R. English, Advancement Project has established a reputation as lawyers for the movement for racial justice. Executive director Judith Browne Dianis is a formidable force for change with a deep passion for community organizing.

“Despite the upheaval in the world, I take comfort in knowing that another world is indeed possible thanks to the work and advocacy of entities such as Advancement Project and their many partners,” said Jennifer R. Farmer, founder of Spotlight PR. Farmer previously worked as the managing director for communications for Advancement Project.

Advancement Project marked their anniversary with a gala reception at the Rubell Museum. It’s executive director Judith Browne Dianis remarked to those in attendance, “thank you for making incredible things happen every day.”

“As we direct our vision to the next 25 years, our unwavering belief is that another world is possible, especially for Black and brown communities,” said former educator, activist and Advancement Project Board Member Jesse Williams.

Advancement Project staff not only celebrated but they also paid homage to a host of grassroots organizations. They awarded the “Turning the Tide Awards” to Action St. Louis, a grassroots racial justice organization that seeks to build political power for Black communities in the St. Louis region. New Virginia Majority, which fuels multi-issue, multi-racial movements to transform Virginia, also earned the Turning the Tide Award.  

Advancement Project also issued the “Just Democracy Award” to the Service Employees International Union, one of the largest labor unions in the country; and the “Harry Belafonte Lift Every Voice Award” to Aja Monet, a Grammy-nominated Surrealist Blues Poet whose work explores themes of resistance, love and joy.

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Race Forward: Our Work is Not Over: We Must Continue to Organize

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For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – Following a hotly contested presidential election, Donald J. Trump won a second term as president of the United States. The national racial equity organization, Race Forward, released the following statement:

“The electoral results are a strong indicator our fight for racial justice must continue. It is imperative that we view these results as one chapter in a long struggle to advance a multi-racial democracy. This is not the end; it is a continuation of our work.

“In light of this moment, it is clear there are those in this country who have not embraced the idea that a racially just democracy carries with it the promise of opportunity where all can thrive. Rather, they desire to hold power, influence, and wealth among only a few. This is not the promise of America and we vow to continue our fight for a society where all can prosper, no matter their race, nationality, religion, gender, sexual identity, or political party. 

“We know there is power in our collective work and we must not relinquish or cede that power. Race Forward is issuing the call to protect and defend the rights of all Americans and to uphold the constitution of these United States. We must all commit to embracing civil discourse, the process of democracy, and to centering the needs of the most vulnerable amongst us. We condemn those who seek to usurp the democratic process through retaliation, intimidation, and violence. 

“At Race Forward, we will continue to work to advance a multiracial democratic society that serves all of us.”

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Facing Race Conference to Host Groundbreaking National Health Equity Grand Rounds Series

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For Immediate Release

November 20, 2024

NEW YORK – Race Forward announced today that it will host the American Medical Association’s (AMA) National Health Equity Grand Rounds panel conversation during the Facing Race conference on November 21 in St. Louis. The National Health Equity Grand Rounds aims to deepen understanding of health inequities, shape national discourse, and outline strategies to improve the nation’s health.

The AMA, along with other organizations including the Missouri Foundation for Health, serves as a Trailblazer Sponsor for this year’s Facing Race conference—which is the nation’s largest multiracial, multi-disciplinary and intergenerational racial justice convening with more than 4,000 expected attendees.

“We are pleased to have the AMA bring this focus on health equity to Facing Race. Their systemic approach to addressing inequities across the health care ecosystem aligns with our theory of change to transform and equip systems to advance racial equity,” said Race Forward President Glenn Harris. “We are also pleased to have the AMA as a Trailblazer Sponsor for our event. Their participation at this level is yet another testimony to the organization’s commitment to advancing health equity.”

The National Health Equity Grand Rounds will be accessible in-person and virtually during Facing Race on Nov. 21 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. CT. Under the theme “Rewrite the Script: Narrative Transformation for Equity in Health,” the session will showcase national thought leaders from diverse backgrounds—including physicians, writers, artists, and digital media experts—sharing insights on how we can challenge harmful narratives and reshape our approach to health.

The panel will open with a keynote from Rinku Sen, MS, Executive Director for the Narrative Initiative, and continue with a conversation including Emmy-nominated producer, writer and physician Mehret Mandefro, MD, PhD; Google Health’s Global Lead for Healthcare and Public Health Garth Graham MD, MPH; Bay Love, MBA, a principal at the Groundwater Institute and lifelong civil rights organizer whose career began in healthcare at a federally qualified health center, and Michelle Browder, the multi-hyphenate innovator, entrepreneur and artist who created the “Mothers of Gynecology” monument and park in Montgomery, Alabama. The AMA will also host arts-based experiences for conference attendees in the exhibit hall and atrium, with artworks and engagements created by Michelle Browder and Laolu Senbanjo, a Nigerian bred, Brooklyn based multidisciplinary artist, around the theme ‘Health Justice is our Co-Creation’.”

“We are excited to curate this unique space for cross-cultural collaboration,” Harris said.

In addition to the Grand Rounds, attendees will have the opportunity to interact with leaders within the racial justice movement during breakout sessions, plenaries, and a keynote address from MSNBC Host and author Joy Reid.

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About Facing Race:

Throughout its 17-year history, Facing Race has been a one-of-a-kind space that allows community organizers, activists, and movement makers from across the country to meet up, build strategies for advancing racial justice, and receive inspiration for the work ahead. To learn more about Facing Race, visit facingrace.raceforward.org

 

 

 

Child Care Providers, Parents and Advocates Share Concerns and Hope the Senate Study Committee on Access to Affordable Childcare Hear Them

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For Immediate Release

October 30, 2024

ATLANTA – The child care affordability crisis has taken center stage during the 2024 presidential election. Both presidential campaigns have acknowledged – to varying degrees of eloquence – the pressure families and communities face when seeking accessible, affordable early childhood education and care. Now, one week before the election, several parents and advocates affiliated with 9to5 Georgia shared their thoughts on funding for early childhood education and care. To watch their comments and concerns, visit this link and use this passcode: qp6.834V.

Parents, advocates and child care providers discussed:

  • The importance of child care solutions being as diverse as the families in need of care, and as innovative as the needs demand. For instance, child care solutions that center around the first shift, will not address the needs of those who work nights and weekends.
  • The need for flexible child care options that empower parents to balance work and family on their own terms.
  • The importance of sustainable funding to ensure child care providers can offer competitive wages which will enable them to retain their best educators.
  • The need for dialogue around “work life balance” to include child care in its fundamental elements. Dignified workplaces must recognize and adapt to the realities of working parents, understanding that supporting families benefits everyone. 

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Raising Child Care Fund Adds Three Grantees to Build Capacity to  Reform Child Care in a Total of 20 States

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For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – As child care providers and parents navigate the fallout from the end of pandemic-era budget stabilization funds, the Raising Child Care Fund, a project of the Early Childhood Funders Collaborative, today announced it is investing close to half a million over two years in three new state partners who are organizing parents and child care providers to make child care affordable and equitable. The additions mean RCCF’s grantee partners are organizing in 20 states as part of a national movement to transform child care. The new grantees are located in Maine, Utah, and Virginia. Each group has earned commitments from state funders to match at least 10% of their national grant. 

At Maine People’s Alliance, Deputy Director Ben Chin believes this grant will be “transformative.” “This support will empower us to deepen our community engagement, strengthen partnerships, and advocate for policies that ensure every family has access to affordable, high-quality childcare.”

“Utah Care for Kids is thrilled for the investment from the Raising Child Care Fund to continue our work of uniting Utah around the public good of an equitable child care system,” said Brigette Weier, the Program Manager at  Utah Association for the Education of Young Children, “We will be able to double down on engaging historically silenced voices in child care and in our communities to lead and shape the movement.”

Virginia Organizing Executive Director Brian Johns stated that, “This support will allow our organizers to identify, recruit, and develop directly-affected parents and caregivers into our child care movement in Virginia.  We will be able to continue to build a powerful campaign to secure dedicated funding for the expansion of accessible affordable child care over these crucial years.” 

“To make lifting the burden of paying for child care off parents’ shoulders a priority, we have to invest in groups that amplify the voices of parents and child care providers to lead the movement,” said Rachel Schumacher, project director for the Raising Child Care Fund. “Child care educators are the workforce behind the workforce. Across the country they are joining with parents to win the public investments and program changes they know are needed to make the system work for all.”

Raising Child Care Fund expansion comes at a critical time for the cause. The American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act provided a boost of $40 Billion for early childhood education providers and increased access for families. But now all of the ARP child care boost in funding has been allowed to expire in Congress. The child care industry was already operating on slim margins, and the loss of this pandemic funding has already forced child care programs to close their doors or raise fees for families closure is states across the country.

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The United States Must Support Policies That Contribute to Human Flourishing Rather Than Human Suffering

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For Immediate Release
 
NEW YORK – United Women in Faith decried the escalating violence in the Middle East. In highlighting the horrific humanitarian crisis and the devastation visited on the people of Gaza, the organization urged an immediate and permanent ceasefire, abidance of international norms and protection of human life. It released the following statement, which coincides with the one-year mark of the Israel-Hamas war:
 
“No loss of life is acceptable and the tremendous loss of life in Gaza is devastating. More than 40,000 people have been killed in Gaza, more than a thousand in Israel and more than a thousand in Lebanon. Without immediate action, this war will spread across the world. Whether one lives in Israel, Gaza, Lebanon or some other part of the Middle East, we are all impacted by what is happening in the region.
 
“We condemn anti-Palestinian, antisemitic and anti-Muslim rhetoric that has led to a rise in hate crimes targeting Palestinian, Jewish and Muslim communities in the United States and globally. 
 
“It is imperative that the United States support policies that contribute to human flourishing rather than human suffering. President Biden and the U.S. Congress must ensure that not another dollar is invested in the bombing of women, children and youth. The United States’ continued participation in this war – by explicit or implicit support – is to our national shame. History will not judge us kindly without an immediate change of course in support of the preservation of human life.
 
“As women of faith, we understand that the toll of war is unimaginably steep, and disproportionately felt by women, children and youth. In times of war and instability, women, children and youth are more likely to experience gender-based violence, unwanted pregnancies, displacement, infections and an interruption of access to essential resources like food, water, medicine, social services, and medical care. There is also a physical, psychological, and spiritual impact of war and instability that cannot not be minimized.
 
“We therefore affirm the tenants of The UMC Social Principles, which state, “As disciples of Christ, we are called to love our enemies, seek justice, and serve as reconcilers of conflict. We insist that the first moral duty of all nations is to work together to resolve by peaceful means every dispute that arises between or among them…We believe that human values must outweigh military claims as governments determine their priorities.”
 
“As world leaders contemplate this grievous situation, the voices and perspectives of women must be at the forefront. Unfortunately, women’s voices are rarely amplified during war. However, as women of faith, we know that women are not just victims but also powerful actors, generating creative and fruitful political solutions. We affirm Palestinian and Israeli women and organizations who have been working for negotiated political solutions. The status quo of continued occupation, denial of self-determination and war will not lead to just and lasting peace, freedom and security for both peoples. All negotiations must include women’s voices and concerns, including complying with the global framework laid out in Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.
 
“Finally, with the presidential election just weeks away, the current and incoming administration and Congress must be committed to long-term solutions that promote just and lasting peace. We issue this urgent appeal not just as those devoted to Methodist teachings, but as women seeking to live into our foremothers’ example of tireless advocacy. Without immediate action, this escalating crisis threatens to destroy entire regions, generations, and bloodlines. This is a risk no reasonable person should embrace.”

MSNBC Host Joy-Ann Reid to Headline Race Forward’s Facing Race Conference in St. Louis: Nov. 20-22

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For Immediate Release

October 2, 2024

NEW YORK – MSNBC Host Joy-Ann Reid will headline Race Forward’s highly anticipated Facing Race conference. Reid is an MSNBC political analyst and host of “The ReidOut.” She has authored numerous books, including her most recent, “Medgar and Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story That Awakened America.”

Facing Race will be held in St. Louis, Nov. 20-22 at the America’s Center Convention Complex. It is the nation’s largest multiracial, intergenerational racial justice conference. More than 4,000 people are expected to attend this year’s conference.

“Throughout its 17-year history, Facing Race has been a one-of-a-kind space that allows community organizers, activists, and movement makers from across the country to meet up, build strategies for advancing racial justice, and receive inspiration for the work ahead,” said Race Forward President Glenn Harris. “We are excited to curate this unique space for cross-cultural collaboration. We are also delighted that attendees will have an opportunity to hear from Joy-Ann Reid who represents the strength of conviction, determination and boldness our movement needs.”

Held biennially, Facing Race provides attendees unprecedented access to resources, information, and collaborative opportunities to help them advance racial justice in their practice. In addition to Reid, audience members will also learn from the American Medical Association (AMA), who is joining the convening as a Trailblazer Sponsor. The AMA’s participation is rooted in their commitment to advancing health equity through the Rise to Health: A National Coalition for Equity in Health Care.

This is the first time since the pandemic the Facing Race conference will be held completely in-person. The organization notes they are committed to facilitating a safe and accessible event for all attendees. “There is something truly special about personal interaction in doing this work,” said Leslie Grant Spann, Race Forward’s director of Conferences and Convenings and the lead organizer of Facing Race. “No one who is fighting for justice should have to figure everything out on their own, but can join us in St. Louis and connect with other movement leaders, and receive support and encouragement.

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More than Five Dozen Black Faith Leaders Issue Open Letter Urging Ohioans to Vote ‘Yes’ on Issue 1

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For Immediate Release

COLUMBUS – Ohio is among the top 10 states where gerrymandering runs rampant. Now, a chorus of Black Faith leaders are uniting and urging Ohioans to vote yes on Issue 1, which will end gerrymandering by empowering citizens, instead of politicians, to draw fair legislative maps in an open and transparent process. More than sixty Black faith leaders released an open letter urging a  YES vote on Issue 1. 

The letter read, in part: “Historically, gerrymandering has been used as a weapon to disenfranchise communities of color, diluting our voices and diminishing our representation in government. This manipulation of voting districts has allowed politicians to choose their voters rather than voters choosing their representatives. These nefarious practices undermine the very foundation of our democracy and perpetuate systemic inequalities.” 

It continued: “The system is so flawed that the Ohio Supreme Court has deemed our current voting districts unconstitutional. In fact, during the last redistricting process, when politicians were in charge of the process, the court ruled that the lines were unconstitutional seven times. Issue 1 will remove current and former politicians from having a say in our map-creating process. Under this new plan, our redistricting commission will reflect diversity with Democrats, Republicans, and Independents working together.” 

“Regardless of our backgrounds, we value our freedoms, including our freedom to have an equal say in our elections,” said Michael Harrison, Senior Pastor of Union Baptist Church (Youngstown) and President of the Ohio State Baptist Convention. “Some legislators want to rule over, not represent us. That’s why it is imperative we turn out to stop the agenda to take away our freedoms and decide our futures for us. If we join together, we can make Ohio a place of freedom for all, no exceptions. That’s why it’s imperative for all of us to get involved and turn out to vote.” 

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Race Forward and Americans for the Arts to Launch ‘Cultural Week of Action on Race and Democracy’ in St. Louis on Sept. 27

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For Immediate Release

NEW YORK – Race Forward and Americans for the Arts (AFTA) today announced the kick-off event for the Cultural Week of Action on Race and Democracy, running from Sept. 27 through Oct. 5, 2024. The week-long series of activities across the country will kick-off in St. Louis, MO, on Sept. 27 at 6:00 p.m. at The Hawthorne in St. Louis. The event will begin with a panel discussion on how arts and culture shape democracy, live performances, and viewing of the recently unveiled art installation honoring Michael Brown Jr., who was fatally shot by police in Ferguson, MO, ten years ago. The keynote speaker for the St. Louis event is Dr. Philip Woodmore. Woodmore developed the original score for Antigone in Ferguson. 

The panel discussion, moderated by Rinku Sen, Executive Director of Narrative Initiative, will include Joseph Orzal, Favianna Rodriguez, and R-SON. Performances by Gangstagrass, a nationally renowned bluegrass and hip-hop group, and local St. Louis artists will provide additional cultural inspiration to drive action toward a multi-racial democracy.

“As attacks on racial equity and democracy continue to grow both locally and globally, now is the time for bold action that inspires new ways of thinking,” said Glenn Harris, president of Race Forward. “Events such as this deepen commitments to racial justice and inclusive democracy, demonstrating that we all have a role to play in creating a beloved community.”

The Cultural Week of Action is a new annual initiative emphasizing the ways in which arts, culture, and creativity can be utilized to secure a just, multiracial democracy. This year’s week of activities will comprise:

  • Activities across the country that bring together local arts and cultural institutions and community-based organizations to explore our history, how it shapes our present, and how everyday people are organizing to build an equitable and racially just future. A list of projects and events happening during the week can be found here.
  • A national event in St. Louis with performers, leaders, and artists exploring ways to use arts and culture to advance a multiracial democracy. The event will also amplify the local work happening in communities across the country throughout the week of action.
  • Seeding and popularizing national narratives that tie together the local activities into one comprehensive story about who we want to be as a country and how we get there.
  • Opportunities for local and national organizing and actions.

“The Cultural Week of Action is a powerful reminder of the role arts and culture play in shaping our collective future, said Suzy Delvalle and Jamie Bennett Interim Co-CEOs of Americans for the Arts, “Our goal is for individuals to view the arts as a source of meaningful response to the challenges that affect our national welfare. It is only possible to create a shared, national identity for our country by celebrating the stories, symbols, sounds, and sensations that represent our cultural heritage.”

Participation in the Cultural Week of Action on Race and Democracy remains open to organizations who would still like to be part of this national week of action. Those organizations can add their projects to our activities map by submitting this form.

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CLLCTIVLY Raised $1,123,723 Million in 24 Hours from 2,116 Donors

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For Immediate Release

BALTIMORE – CLLCTIVLY celebrated Black Philanthropy Month by hosting CLLCTIVGIVE, a 24-hour, crowd funding event. During the August 9 event, CLLCTIVLY raised $1,123,723 Million in from 2,116 Donors. The funds will benefit 119 organizations.

“This was by far an impactful event that will reach dozens of Black-led organizations in Baltimore,” said Jamye Wooten, founder, CLLCTIVLY. “Black-led organizations receive less than 2% of the $60 billion in foundation dollars. Events like this literally make the difference between staying afloat and shutting one’s doors.”

As of this writing, 119 organizations signed up to participate in CLLCTIVGIVE, and will be the beneficiaries of funds raised. The groups were featured on a donor platform, which the public then accessed to make donations.

Black donors give 25% more of their income annually than white households, according to a report by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. “This was an opportunity to celebrate Black-led groups in Baltimore and support their ingenuity a