As America’s Anti-DEI Push Grows, California’s Black Orgs Find Critical Support From Black Freedom Fund

July 27, 2026

The Black Freedom Fund (BFF), initially established as a five-year initiative, has become a permanent organization supporting Black-serving groups across California, providing crucial funding as federal and corporate diversity spending declines. The organization surpassed $100 million in funding within its first two years and currently supports 150 organizations with approximately 80% of its resources coming from philanthropic institutions focused on racial and social justice. This year alone, BFF has invested $4.

Who is affected

Black communities across California
Over 150 Black-serving organizations receiving BFF support this year
240 separate organizations supported by BFF since 2020
Specific organizations including SCOPE (Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education), CURYJ (Communities United for Restorative Youth Justice), Covenant House California, and CHIRLA (Coalition for Humane Immigration Rights of Los Angeles)
Black and Brown communities in South Los Angeles
Black communities impacted by the Eaton wildfire in Altadena and Pasadena
Marc Philpart (BFF President and CEO)
Philanthropic institutions providing funding to BFF
Black-led organizations and leaders historically under-resourced

What action is being taken

BFF is currently investing $4.6 million in 119 organizations this year
SCOPE is training members and community to combat gentrification and improve health outcomes
SCOPE is fighting oil drilling and gentrification in Los Angeles communities
BFF is operating the Black LA Relief and Recovery Fund for wildfire-impacted communities
The LEAD (Legal Education Advocacy and Defense for Racial Justice) initiative is educating local groups on the legal landscape and operating in several states
BFF is receiving approximately 80% of its funding from philanthropic institutions

Why it matters

This funding is critical because Black-led organizations have historically received only a fraction of philanthropic dollars, leaving them chronically under-resourced despite having the vision and leadership to address their communities' challenges. The BFF represents a shift in philanthropy from funding programs to funding power, enabling Black communities to build capacity for self-determination and leadership. The organization's permanence and continued operation are particularly significant during a challenging period marked by declining federal and corporate diversity spending and the Trump administration's rollback of civil rights protections through executive orders targeting DEI initiatives. By providing stable funding and support to 150+ organizations across California, BFF strengthens the broader ecosystem of Black-serving organizations working on issues ranging from gentrification and health outcomes to youth justice and immigration rights.

What's next

BFF has not written off future opportunities to work with national partners if opportunities present themselves
Organizations working toward Black empowerment and liberation are encouraged to apply for funding (though funding is not guaranteed)

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint