Why we should give to Black-led nonprofits in Mecklenburg
I first heard the term “Give Black” last year, when my nonprofit partnered with several Black-led organizations to plan Charlotte’s 2020 observance of Black Philanthropy Month. After months of collaborating with new colleagues, as a White woman, I learned two important lessons: discomfort means growth, and trust takes time.
Guiding a shift from negotiating transactions to building relationships, these Black leaders met me where I was and demonstrated how to be a better community partner and advocate of racial equity.
Based on what I now know, this is why I will Give Black.
To make an impact with a gift to nonprofits serving communities that, currently and historically, have been hit hard. I now see how systems have been structured to marginalize and segregate Black people and communities of color, denying open access to things I take for granted every day. I recently learned of a neighborhood that can’t get a satisfactory grocery store because the market is deemed “unfavorable.”
Black leaders in a community can better understand the challenges of the community, more likely have the trust of that community, and can quickly direct resources where they can make the greatest impact. So l will be intentional about Giving Black.
To demonstrate support by investing in nonprofit leaders who make great sacrifices to make a difference in this world, despite the stacked deck. Running a nonprofit is hard work and often comes with little glory. So why do we do it? Because we have a heart to try to make a difference. Black nonprofit leaders often face an additional set of challenges that are rooted in racial prejudice - facing mistrust about their ability to lead or to be good stewards of donated dollars, simply because they are Black. So I will demonstrate my confidence in their insights, know-how and community connections by Giving Black.
To build trust and relationships across race. When we entered this partnership our Black colleagues, unsure of the motives of an all-White staff, asked why we wanted to help with Black Philanthropy Month. Having to earn their trust surprised me because I’ve always assumed trust is something that just is, until it isn’t. You know - innocent until proven guilty. I now know that an assumption of trust is one of the many privileges of being White. SHARE Charlotte has been fielding the same question since George Floyd’s death - how can I show my support for Black people and organizations in our community? One great way is to advocate with your wallet. So I will put my money where my mouth is and Give Black.
To lead by example. August 28 is #CLTGivesBlack, a community-wide day of giving to benefit Black-led, Black-benefitting nonprofits in Mecklenburg County. I will Give Black not only on the 28th but ongoing, and I encourage everyone to do the same. If you can’t make a financial commitment, then share your network! It’s called social capital, and you have it - so share it.