Nonprofit Advocates Urge Donors to Support ‘Pillars’ of U.S. Democracy

Concerned about “serious threats to our democracy” in the wake of the 2020 election, leaders at more than two dozen nonprofit associations have signed a letter urging philanthropic leaders to support efforts to safeguard America’s democratic institutions.

The letter, issued November 11 from the United Philanthropy Forum, a prominent national membership organization, urges grant makers to “use your financial capital to invest in organizations that are working year-round to improve the key pillars of our democracy,” such as free elections, an informed electorate, and protection of voting rights.

The letter was signed by leaders at 32 philanthropic or nonprofit associations, including the chief executives at national-level groups such as the Center for Effective Philanthropy and the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy and the leaders of several state nonprofit associations.

“We stand ready to work with the Biden-Harris administration and members of Congress by advocating for legislation and regulations that address inequities across the country, recognize systemic racism, and seek to rectify social injustices,” reads the letter. “We will also continue to work to strengthen our democracy by supporting a participatory civil society with fair representation for all.”