Giving Compass' Take:

• The author examines the role philanthropy should play in challenging inequality and provides five ways to take action. 

• Are there examples of philanthropists or foundations that are truly empowering individuals by taking directives from them? 

• Read about how philanthropists can do more than just "level the playing field".

‘Philanthropy is not a sector that likes to change’, Darren Walker asserted at a recent lecture at the London School of Economics. Many philanthropic organizations have bold rhetoric on inequality, but (as he put it) ‘stop short of interrogating their own practice’. Attacking what Darren calls the ‘scourge’ of inequality should be a priority for philanthropy.

Generosity isn’t enough; justice requires discomfort.

Instead of ‘stopping short’ of interrogating ourselves, there are many things philanthropy can do to challenge inequality:

  1. General support: To truly be willing to empower people, you have to be willing to take your directive from them.
  2. New forms of leadership: As well as empathizing with the marginalized, actually involve them in decision-making about issues that affect them.
  3. Valuing alternative expertise: What if a person’s knowledge and leadership skills stem from authentic engagement in their community, rather than academic qualifications?
  4. Beyond metrics: Often it’s the stories people tell about their lives that offer real understanding. Can we use these as evidence for reporting?
  5. Using privilege: Philanthropy’s lack of accountability (to shareholders, electorates or funders) should be used take risks, to speak out, and to challenge injustice.

Read the full article on philanthropy and inequality by Rose Longhurst at Alliance