A Call to Defend Democracy and Justice

The results of the November 2024 election mark a turning point in our nation’s history. We face a stark reality: the incoming administration is poised to dismantle vital social programs, make abortion illegal nationally, weaponize the federal government against its political opponents, dismantle LGBTQ rights, and pursue mass deportations that will tear families and communities apart, all of which represents a catastrophic setback for democracy, human rights, and the values that define a just society.

The forces driving this agenda thrive on fear, disinformation, and division, using race, gender, immigration status, and economic hardship as wedge issues to stoke fear and anger with the goal of solidifying power.

The potential actions of the incoming administration will not only erode democratic institutions but will accelerate a slide toward authoritarianism. The threat of prosecuting political enemies, coupled with draconian immigration policies and attacks on gender autonomy, signals a dangerous consolidation of power reminiscent of dictatorial regimes. This challenges the very principles of democracy and the rule of law.

The most marginalized communities—those at the crosshairs of race, class, and gender—will be hit the hardest. Groundswell Fund and Groundswell Action Fund stand in solidarity with those who will bear the brunt of these policies, and we will continue to support grassroots movements that fight for the rights, safety, and dignity of all.

This moment calls for renewed vigilance, resistance, and solidarity.

Despite setbacks, we have witnessed incredible resilience from youth-led movements across the globe—from organizing for reproductive justice and resisting authoritarianism in the U.S. to fighting for human rights in the Global South. These movements remind us that while elections are essential, they are not the only measure of progress. The real work continues in the streets, communities, and grassroots organizations committed to resisting authoritarianism and building a multiracial feminist democracy. Every day, our grantees remind us that the way forward is together.

We call on philanthropy to meet this moment with unwavering commitment.

Short-term funding tied to electoral outcomes will not sustain the movements needed to defend democracy and justice. We must invest in long-term, grassroots infrastructure to support legal defense, community organizing, and mutual aid. Funders are uniquely responsible for stepping in where governments and institutions fail to protect marginalized groups. The stakes are too high to retreat; we must strengthen our resolve and continue to push forward.

Groundswell remains steadfast in supporting intersectional organizing and movements led by BIPOC women and trans and gender-expansive leaders. Now more than ever, we need the power of communities at the forefront of this struggle.

We will not back down in the face of oppression, and we will continue to fight for a future where every person can live in dignity, safety, and true freedom.

This moment may have set us back, but it will not break us. The fight for justice is far from over, and together, we will continue to resist, rebuild, and reimagine a future rooted in care, dignity, and liberation for all.