The COVID-19 crisis has exacerbated existing inequities around the world, reinforced by violence. To illustrate the long history of oppression, each speaker began with examples of some of the underlying issues their communities have been dealing with.

We have seen time and time again the important role that social movements and community organizing play in addressing root causes and mitigating emergencies. For decades, social movements have been picking up the slack where governments and their policies have failed to provide for their citizens. From creating co-ops, to reclaiming land, to building critical infrastructures like roads, schools, and health clinics — social movements have cut through the red-tape and bureaucracy to build community-controlled space everyone benefits from.

“What we need after COVID-19 is a world social movement that can connect people with progressive, humanistic ideas and connect them to each other.” ~ Dr. Mustafa Barghouti

This quote also speaks to Grassroots’ strong belief that those most affected know best what the problems they are facing are and have the most innovative solutions. The problem is they are struggling with the financial resources needed to make these solutions a reality — that’s where solidarity philanthropy comes into play. As a funder in the US, Grassroots International is uniquely poised to connect donor-activists in the US with these movements creating change around the world. Together, we are able to mobilize financial resources to fuel these movements.

Read the full article about how solidarity philanthropy can help grow social movements by Shannon Duncan at Grassroots International.