Values and Principles

Acting with Courage  

We commit to acting with boldness and resolve in this revolutionary moment, holding ourselves and each other accountable to rise to the level of the challenges we face. This is a time for decisive action and transformative thinking.

Acknowledging the Political Nature of Funding 

There is no such thing as remaining neutral on a moving train. While funding and philanthropy should be non-partisan, they inherently carry profound political dimensions. We stand up for our values and will not shy away from taking positions that defend them.

Engaging with the Tensions and Contradictions of Philanthropy

We recognize that many funders are intertwined with the very structures of capitalism they aim to transform. Instead of avoiding these tensions, we confront them critically and constructively, striving to transcend and transform the inherent contradictions of power and capital.

Practicing Thoughtfulness 

We are mindful not to enter spaces with a terra nullius mindset, respecting the existing wisdom, knowledge, and practices of the communities we engage with. We approach our work thoughtfully, valuing the richness and history of each context.

Valuing Plurality 

We embrace plurality and challenge hegemonic thinking and universalism. We respect and uplift multiple perspectives and experiences, finding hope and inspiration in the concept of the pluriverse - " a world in which many worlds could fit." 

Co-Creating with Partners and Communities 

We practice meaningful participation and radical listening, following a co-creation approach. We take an inclusive approach to ensure that the voices and needs of the communities funders aim to serve are at the center of the work.

Integrating Equity and Sustainability Into Every Facet of Our Work 

Equity, anti-racism, and ecological sustainability are woven into every decision we make and are integral to our work, not add-ons or afterthoughts.

Embodying Experimentation 

We challenge conventional norms, remain critically engaged, and embrace the uncertainty of not having all the answers. By learning through action, our commitment to experimentation drives us to continually explore new ways to achieve meaningful change.

Nurturing Relational Approaches 

We embrace a fundamentally relational approach to our work, centering on people and moving away from transactional models. At the core of our practice is the commitment to building genuine, trust-based relationships.

Committing to Non-Extractiveness 

We are dedicated to non-extractiveness, ensuring that our actions do not divert resources from critical life-affirming work. We uphold accountability to the broader community, making sure our efforts reinforce and create new capabilities in the civic space.