The Rise of a $200 Million Endowment To Assist Black Americans

In April 2024, an image captured by UnCommon Law showcased graduates from the Home After Harm program at Salinas Valley State Prison in California (Justin Bench/UnCommon Law via AP).Launched in 2020 amidst a national fervor for racial justice following George Floyd’s murder, the California Black Freedom Fund is ambitiously expanding to a $200 million endowment. This is both a rare philanthropic initiative and a politically audacious move, especially considering the previous administration's attempts to dismantle race-focused grant-making practices.Initially a branch of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, the fund transitioned to its current identity to emphasize its national focus. Over five years, it has accumulated over $97 million, directing around $45 million to 206 California-based nonprofits aimed at empowering Black communities.Executive Director Marc Philpart asserts that this endowment will allow the fund to distribute grants, ensuring sustainability through a substantial financial reservoir.