The Rundown - The Politicization of Philanthropy - April 21, 2023
National Review adds an important perspective to the conversatoin on politics and giving
Our country’s relationship between politics and philanthropy has been well chronicled in this newseltter along with how Americans perceive the nonprofit sector.
Back in March, we talked about the uncomfortable space that is created when the two world collide in this article:
And we recently talked about how the latest research from Indiana University talked about how American’s aren’t sure what nonprofits do here:
Now comes this new voice to the discussion from the National Review, a well-known chronicle of conservative thought.
Perhaps it’s helpful to remember that philanthropy is the act of giving, and it has been a fundamental aspect of American culture for many years. And it really can’t be aruged philanthropy has become more politicized, leading some to question whether politics is ruining philanthropy for Americans. The Natonal Review tries to answer that question.
The article highlights how the rise of politically motivated giving is undermining the traditional spirit of philanthropy. It argues that political giving is often used as a way to signal one's political beliefs and to gain social status rather than genuinely wanting to help others. In other words, politics has hijacked philanthropy and turned it into a form of virtue signaling.
While it is true that political giving has become more prevalent in recent years, it is not necessarily a bad thing. Philanthropy has always been influenced by politics, and political giving can be an effective way to advance a cause. Political donations can fund research, support advocacy, and help to elect politicians who share one's values.
However, the article makes a valid point that philanthropy should not be reduced to politics. Philanthropy is about making a difference in people's lives, and it should not be used as a tool for advancing one's political beliefs or gaining social status. The article argues that philanthropy should be guided by empathy and a genuine desire to help others rather than political calculations.
The article also discusses the impact of political polarization on philanthropy. As the country becomes more polarized, people are increasingly giving to causes that align with their political beliefs. This has led to a decline in funding for non-political causes and organizations that are perceived as being politically neutral. This polarization of philanthropy is a cause for concern, as it can undermine the social fabric of the country.
To address this issue, we need to undertake efforts that depoliticize philanthropy. Philanthropy should focus on supporting causes and organizations that are genuinely making a difference in people's lives rather than strictly promoting political agendas. I myself, work for a food pantry and for all the years in this work, I have never met one person who hasn’t given on the belief that the world needs more hungry people. In the end, just like the National Review argues, we need a renewed emphasis on non-political causes and organizations that are working to address pressing social problems.
The politicization of philanthropy is here and it seems to be a complex issue that requires a nuanced approach. While political giving can be an effective way to advance a cause, it should not be the sole focus of philanthropy. Philanthropy should be guided by empathy and a genuine desire to help others rather than political calculations. Moreover, philanthropy should not be reduced to politics. It should be about making a difference in people's lives, and it should support causes and organizations that are working to address pressing social problems. Depoliticizing philanthropy can help to ensure that it remains a force for good in American society.
The Weekly Notebook
A quick rundown of what I am seeing and hearing in the nonprofit world….
Now Hiring!
I have a nonprofit in Sidney, Ohio that has reached out to me looking for a new Executive Director. I can tell you that this a very strong organization that needs leadership that has strong entrepreneurial and staff management skills. If you have any interest, please drop me a line at pinnaclestrategiesltd@gmail.com and let’s talk!
The Mosaic Conference is Coming!
We are just a month out from the annual Mosaic Conference put on by the Paul G. Duke Foundation and Edison State Community College as part of their Graduate Academy for Community Leadership.
This year’s event will take place on Wednesday, May 24th and John Carreon, CEO and Partner of Advancement Experts will be keynote speaker.
You can leanr more and register here.
How Can We Work Together?
Did you know that Pinnacle Strategies works individually with nonprofit and public sector leaders to help them solve problems, achieve goals and gain confidence in their roles?
Why?
Because, this work is hard and it’s often a lonely road. Our nonprofit and public sector leaders need people that they can talk to to get solid advice and encouragement to do the work that is in front of them. If you feel that this can be of value to you, or a member of your team, please reach out to pinnaclestrategiesltd@gmail.com and let’s talk.
Ready to Learn Something New?
One of the prettiest cities in the Midwest is Indianapolis and travelling there can open a perfect opportunity to sharpen your skills and meet new professionals in the field. I would encourage you to look at some of the offerings of The Fund Raising School at the Lilly School of Philanthropy at Indiana University’s campus in Indianapolis. The professional development school has great programming both on-line and in-person both in Indianapolis and at other sites across the country. Take a look at their course offerings here!
Online Learning Options from Texas A&M Announced
If travelling for professional development isn’t in the cards (or the budget), the Center for Nonprofits at Texas A&M University has some great offerings! I recently enrolled in one of their certificate programs and really enjoyed the online format and the online discussions that were developed. It was time and money well spent and I would highly recommend this program, especially for early or mid-career professionals. The next session begins in early February and you can learn more here!
Other Ways to Connect
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