From protest against US militarism and the genocide in Gaza to policing and incarceration, dissent and civil disobedience have become increasingly more criminalized. What does it mean when decision-makers and public officials are actively creating an increasingly dangerous reality for people participating in direct action against state violence in its many forms? The authoritarian creep, bolstered by state repression, effectively is silencing the collective voice that speaks out against it.

Unchecked, these attacks on organized protest and direct action will continue to sprawl until, in both theory and praxis, we can no longer mobilize for justice. The RICO 61, the Bay Bridge 78, the Sea-Tac 46 - countless numbers of organizers are facing the force of the state in terrifying ways. The stakes for protest are higher than ever, especially as we see law and order narratives demand protestors be ‘respectable,’ the continued threat of police violence, and the brutality experienced during arrest and in jail. Navigating the court process continues the suppression, especially in cases such as in Atlanta with Stop Cop City where defendants cannot even speak to each other - a detriment in a situation where collective support and community voice is vital. 

Photo by Noah Berger/Associated Press
Photo by Noah Berger/Associated Press

However, community members continue to organize - raising bail funds, constructing participatory defense committees, shifting public narrative, and rallying public support that is crucial for the outcome of these cases. The movement is continuing the call for justice despite rampant state repression. Our colleagues at Solidaire recently reminded us that philanthropy also has a role in this struggle, and must act to protect front-line organizers and movement organizations.  During this upcoming NFG webinar, we will explore how philanthropy can show their solidarity for leaders on the ground. Join to learn more about how all of us in philanthropy can show up supportively.

Speakers:

  • Hyejin Shim (she/her), Golden Gate 26 Defense Committee
  • Jersey Noah (he/they), Golden Gate 26 Defense Committee and Right to Reject Zionism
  • Jas Wade (they/them), Solidaire 
  • Maylott Mulugeta (she/her), Urgent Action Fund 
  • Melissa Rudnick (she/her), Piper Fund 

 

About Rooted: NFG Political Education

NFG cultivates spaces of connection, strategy, and action to shift more philanthropic resources to community organizing. We are excited to share a political education series where funders can grow together as we build towards communities of color having the power to self determine. Rooted is a space for intentional political education and funder organizing to learn more about why philanthropy must do things differently, and how. Learn more about previous webinars here and here.

Event Details

When

Oct 16, 2024

11:00 am - 12:00 pm PT

Where

Webinar