Philanthropy Film Series

We are working with a grant from the Chorus Foundation to produce a series of short films that tell the story of how some people and institutions in philanthropy are finding new ways to address the shortcomings of traditional philanthropy. We are seeking an additional $100-125K to complete the series. If we raise more than that, we will produce additional episodes.

Episode 1 — Philanthropy and Native Americans

More than a hundred years after the rise of modern philanthropy, funding for Native Americans still represents less than 1% of all giving. In this episode we learn how the NDN Collective is working with funders to liberate philanthropic wealth and bring it under community control.

Episode 2 — Backlash: Philanthropy and Racial Justice

Four years after George Floyd's murder, and in the wake of Trump’s reelection, we hear from people in and around philanthropy about what funders have learned since 2020, and how they are navigating their commitment to racial equity work.

Episode 3 — Philanthropy and the Solidarity Economy

Philanthropy is an offshoot of capitalism, and spends most of its money addressing the symptoms of the system that generates its wealth. But some funders are looking at ways to shift their grantmaking and investments into local economies that offer opportunities for collective ownership and local wealth creation. In this episode, we look at how funders and nonprofits are working together to build a robust solidarity economy in Boston.