Six Questions for Joy Chia, Executive Director at Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice

Six Questions for Joy Chia, Executive Director at Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice

In 2021, this foundation working to advance LGBTQI human rights globally welcomed Joy Chia as executive director. We spoke with Chia about how she’s adjusted to the job, how to fund at the intersection of multiple issues, and more.

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Seeing Progress and Potential, Jewish LGBTQ Donors Form a Network to Support Their Community

Seeing Progress and Potential, Jewish LGBTQ Donors Form a Network to Support Their Community

More Jewish donors are supporting LGBTQ communities, but there’s still much room for growth. Three philanthropists formed the Jewish LGBTQ Donor Network to increase giving, educate and build connections.

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The Data on Funding for LGBTQ Causes Is Seriously Incomplete. Here’s Why

The Data on Funding for LGBTQ Causes Is Seriously Incomplete. Here’s Why

Claims of underfunding in the LGBTQ space aren’t wrong, but it’s also notoriously difficult to get a read on how much money is being moved and how much is needed. Ultimately, some of this handwringing may be unnecessary.

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“We Are By No Means Home Free.” Six Questions for Horizons Foundation President Roger Doughty

“We Are By No Means Home Free.” Six Questions for Horizons Foundation President Roger Doughty

Roger Doughty recently celebrated 20 years as president of Horizons Foundation, which has been funding LGBTQ issues for over four decades. We spoke with Doughty about the state of funding in the field and much more.

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A Small, Focused Funder Demonstrates the Strength and Resilience of Transgender Communities

A Small, Focused Funder Demonstrates the Strength and Resilience of Transgender Communities

The Black Trans Travel Fund shows how a resilient community can care for itself through philanthropy. It also offers an example for mainstream funders looking to support transgender people in a meaningful way.

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At 42 and Counting, Horizons Foundation Punches Way Above Its Weight

At 42 and Counting, Horizons Foundation Punches Way Above Its Weight

An iconic LGBTQ community funder, the Bay Area-based Horizons Foundation has spent decades building up the grassroots. Today, though it’s still modest in size, its impact extends to the national and international stage.

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MacKenzie Scott’s Latest Round Gives a Big Boost to LGBTQ Groups at a Critical Moment

MacKenzie Scott’s Latest Round Gives a Big Boost to LGBTQ Groups at a Critical Moment

MacKenzie Scott has backed LGBTQ groups since she first got started in 2022, but her latest round took that support to the next level, including funding for trans rights and intersectional groups, big and small.

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The Arcus Foundation's Dual Mission: Protecting LGBTQ People and Humans' Nearest Relations

The Arcus Foundation's Dual Mission: Protecting LGBTQ People and Humans' Nearest Relations

Founded by Jon Stryker, the Arcus Foundation funds in two seemingly disparate arenas: LGBTQ issues and the conservation of great apes and gibbons. As the foundation hones its strategy, social justice is a big theme.

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For Groundswell, Supporting Black Trans People Is all About “Joy and Resilience”

For Groundswell, Supporting Black Trans People Is all About “Joy and Resilience”

Even as the people it serves face a daunting list of threats, the Black Trans Fund focuses on joy, resilience and liberation. Program Officer Bré Rivera explains how the fund works and what it backs.

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How This "Gutsy" Group of Funders Came Together to Support Trans Rights

How This "Gutsy" Group of Funders Came Together to Support Trans Rights

Since its launch, Grantmakers United for Trans Communities has seen an overwhelming response. Part of that growth is a backlash to right-wing attacks, but organizers also made some key strategic moves.

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Born This Way: How Lady Gaga’s Foundation Focuses on Kindness

Born This Way: How Lady Gaga’s Foundation Focuses on Kindness

Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation focuses on youth and mental health, backed by Gaga herself, funding partners, and ticket sales. Executive Director Maya Enista Smith explains how its work has evolved over the years.

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Is Philanthropy Finally Responding to the Crisis of Anti-Transgender Hatred in the U.S.?

Is Philanthropy Finally Responding to the Crisis of Anti-Transgender Hatred in the U.S.?

Trans and gender-nonconforming people are facing a rise in physical and legislative violence. Overall, philanthropy continues to dedicate mere pennies to the problem, but there are some signs of an uptick in funding.

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IP Briefing: What’s Going on with Philanthropy for LGBTQ+ Issues?

IP Briefing: What’s Going on with Philanthropy for LGBTQ+ Issues?

Funding for U.S.-based nonprofits focused on LGBTQ+ communities is on the rise, yet this sector still receives only a tiny fraction of overall giving. Here’s an overview of the space, with plenty of links to our coverage on the topic.

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Seven Questions for Borealis Philanthropy President Amoretta Morris

Seven Questions for Borealis Philanthropy President Amoretta Morris

Last February, Amoretta Morris took the helm of the progressive grantmaking intermediary Borealis Philanthropy. We caught up with her to discuss the new role, why she’s optimistic about the state of philanthropy, and more.

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Eight Funders That Back Grassroots LGBTQ+ Movements

Eight Funders That Back Grassroots LGBTQ+ Movements

Amid a barrage of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation across the country, here are some of the top philanthropic funders supporting ground-level movement groups working to resist the trend.

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A New Book on George Soros’ “Life in Full” Examines His Giving—and Impact on Philanthropy

A New Book on George Soros’ “Life in Full” Examines His Giving—and Impact on Philanthropy

A new book edited by Peter L.W. Osnos examines the many facets of the life of George Soros, including a chapter on his philanthropy written by Ford’s Darren Walker. It’s an insightful look at what makes Soros so unique as a donor.

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Trans Communities Are Under Attack. Here’s How Philanthropy Must Respond

Trans Communities Are Under Attack. Here’s How Philanthropy Must Respond

Legislatures across the nation are stripping away trans rights and legalizing discriminatory practices. Aldita Gallardo of the Fund for Trans Generations urges action, encouraging funders to listen to—and fund—trans communities.

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After Two Decades, the Haas, Jr. Fund Is Winding Down LGBTQ Grants. Who Will Fill the Void?

After Two Decades, the Haas, Jr. Fund Is Winding Down LGBTQ Grants. Who Will Fill the Void?

The Evelyn and Walter Haas, Jr. Fund has been a leading backer of LGBTQ causes. Now, the foundation is winding down its program. How is the move being received? And who will step up to meet ongoing, pressing challenges?

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An Award for Scholars Backing Movements Inside and Outside the Academy Walls

An Award for Scholars Backing Movements Inside and Outside the Academy Walls

Through its Freedom Scholars initiative, the Marguerite Casey Foundation recognizes academics whose work both supports and channels activist movements pushing for social justice.

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To Counter #PhilanthropySoWhite, a Foundation Offers a Paid Introduction to the Sector

To Counter #PhilanthropySoWhite, a Foundation Offers a Paid Introduction to the Sector

Lack of diversity is a persistent problem in philanthropy. A new initiative aims to improve equity by recruiting candidates from a wide range of backgrounds for a two-year paid introduction to the sector.

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