Ford Foundation

Our grantee, Mississippi Engaged, is guided by the fundamental belief that democracy works best when every voice is heard. Using a powerful coalition model to dismantle systemic barriers and ensure every person can participate in the decisions that shape their lives, they are leading the charge to expand ballot access and build lasting community power. Learn how Mississippi Engaged coordinates efforts to eliminate roadblocks and make democracy work best for everyone: https://lnkd.in/env7Jq4f

Due to a lack of community mental health services, many people with mental illness do not have access to the critical services they need in times of crisis. As a result, they too often experience unnecessary institutionalization and incarceration. In the US, 2 in 5 incarcerated people have a history of mental illness. This isn't just a healthcare gap, it's a justice gap. That’s why The Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law is advancing litigation to ensure their rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act are respected. Bazelon believes expanding access to community mental health services can help end the cycle of incarceration for those who need care. https://www.bazelon.org/

Safeguarding democracy means protecting the institutions, norms, and rights that allow people to participate freely and fairly in shaping their future. The Protect Democracy Project works to defend the rule of law, prevent abuses of power, and strengthen the systems that keep elections free, fair, and accountable. They bring together legal experts, researchers, and partners to turn democratic principles into practical protections people can rely on. Investing in democracy isn’t optional; it’s essential to preserving a government that is accountable to the people and resilient for years to come. https://lnkd.in/e5PcNiWm

Since its founding in 1959 Detroit, Motown Records has proven that music is a unifying force. The Motown Museum uncovers stories of social and cultural change from the early days of Motown. Its expansion, which we are proud to support, is helping the museum grow, to deepen connections between the history of the Civil Rights movement and the artists and activists of today. This #BlackHistoryMonth, and as we mark #FordFoundation90, we’re honoring the legacy of those who turned reviews calling their music “unfit fit for release” into blockbuster hits. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/dMQteNm 📸: Group photo from the founding of Motown Records. #BHM

Half of the world’s economies are transitioning to clean sources of energy—and with this comes the opportunity to reimagine our energy systems so that they work for everyone. Ford program officers Maryati Abdullah, Camilo Léon, and Alan Wallis explain that what will make this transition truly just isn't simply a commitment to renewables but a focus on who holds power in shaping energy projects. They explore how Ford grantees in South Africa, Indonesia, and Colombia are leading solutions that demonstrate it's possible to expand access to quality jobs, make energy more affordable and support communities to build economic futures on their own terms. Read more. https://lnkd.in/eV5WcrU2

When “Eyes on the Prize” debuted on PBS in 1987, many Americans believed that the civil rights movement’s gains meant the fight for equality was over. This groundbreaking documentary, which we are proud to have supported, demonstrated more than just history—it told the stories of those who worked for justice from the Montgomery bus boycott to the Voting Rights Act, in their own words. As we celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth and #FordFoundation90, we remain committed to telling such pivotal stories and supporting the filmmakers who ensure the fight for justice is never forgotten. Learn more about the legacy of the series: https://lnkd.in/eKKHN7N7 #BHM

Reflecting on her first 100 days as president, Heather Gerken shares why we must continue to protect democracy and the rule of law and remain steadfast in supporting systems that advance justice and human rights globally. https://lnkd.in/gedsSK6Z #FordFoundation90

A resilient economy depends on a robust social protection system that works for everyone. The Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) bridges the political divide to strengthen programs like Unemployment Insurance. By convening diverse experts and using data-driven research, BPC ensures these systems are efficient, accessible, and well-funded for millions of workers. In a polarized climate, BPC proves that bipartisan cooperation isn’t just possible, but the only way to achieve lasting progress. https://lnkd.in/efCMkee

Remembering the iconic civil rights leader, the Rev. Jesse Jackson today. His impact spans decades, from his early leadership in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference to his founding of People United to Save Humanity (PUSH) and its educational initiative, PUSH Excel. He will be remembered for everything from his historic coalition building to his significant impact on access to education and economic opportunity for all. We are proud to have supported the legacy of working for justice and equality Rev. Jackson built. As we mourn his passing, we know his work will continue with the next generation, inspired, as we are, to dedicate themselves to a life of service. #BlackHistoryMonth #FordFoundation90 📸: Getty images

Grateful to Knight Foundation President and CEO Maribel Perez Wadsworth, for joining me for such a timely conversation. At #KMF26, we dove into the state of democracy, civic engagement and the role of #philanthropy in this critical moment.