"The Powerful Movement of Black Woman-Led Nonprofits: A Call for Equitable Recognition"

As a Black woman with over 20 years of nonprofit experience, a sociologist with a Master of Divinity degree I've dedicated my career to understanding and advocating for equitable opportunities in varying sub-sectors of the African American community. Today, I want to address a well-known secret in the nonprofit sector: the underfunding of Black woman-led organizations.

Why are Black woman-led nonprofits often underfunded?

·?????? Let’s start from the beginning: Traditionally, black women are viewed upon as natural care givers and nurturers amongst every racial group in the United States. Also, funders have perpetually chosen to ignore the unique challenges and perspectives that Black women bring to the table.

·?????? Stereotypes run rampant still: There are prevailing stereotypes and misconceptions about Black women's leadership abilities, are sometimes rooted in the “angry black woman syndrome”, which impacts the trust and investment they receive.

·?????? Proximity is important: Black women typically are not a part of circles and networks that can open doors to larger funding opportunities, this can be a direct correlation for multi-year and substantial financial support.

·?????? Branding and Visibility: Black woman-led nonprofits generally don’t have the media platforms to showcase their work, leading to being on the defensive versus the offensive in storytelling and narrative development. This also leads to less recognition and awareness among potential funders.

·?????? The Hamster Wheel: When funds are already limited, it forces these Black women led organizations to operate in cycles where organizations cannot invest in areas needed to scale and attract larger funds.

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I urge the funding community to recognize the potential and necessity of supporting Black woman-led organizations. It's time to shift the narrative and invest in leaders who are often at the forefront of change yet remain in the background when it comes to funding and cultivating results due to programming. Let's create a more inclusive and equitable future together. We can start by supporting organizations like Helping Empower Youth on Giving Tuesday, 11/28/2023 and all year round.? To learn more about HEY!, visit www.helpingempoweryouth.org.?

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