We are living in an increasingly uncertain and unprecedented time in our nation’s history. The rise of multiple crises of political violence and explicit white supremacy is coinciding with a nearly unchecked pandemic and deepening economic inequality that threaten to throw our already fragile social order into chaos. Donald Trump’s failed coup attempt is the most glaring reminder that we are not going to return to any sense of “normal” politics.
The entrenched political interests that seek to ride a wave of nationalism, xenophobia and white supremacist conspiracy theory to fame, wealth and political power have not gone away. They will not do away on their own accord. The failed coup of January 6th and its violent aftermath makes it clear that institutions of liberal democracy are vulnerable, under attack and we cannot rely on the “powers that be” to defend them effectively. The nation is seeing the attacks and feeling the vulnerabilities that Black and Indigenous led movements have been experiencing and warning against for years.
It is now clearer than ever, that these social movements are part of our last, best hope for a truly democratic society. The call for social transformation that these movement embody envision a more robust, pluralistic, and diverse form of democracy that can more effectively meet the needs of all residents of the country. Yet, without additional support it is unclear if the movement will be able to survive the continued repression and violence inflicted against it, let alone build the power necessary to neutralize the undemocratic forces that are fester within the soul of America.
Thus, the Movement Defense Trust seeks to prototype and seed a fortified defense network for Black and Indigenous movement leaders and anchor organizations who play particularly irreplaceable roles in coordinating protests, building mutual aid programs, shifting the national conversation and defending fellow protestors - but are often overexposed with little personal security or safety net.
The Movement Defense Trust seeks to make critical investments in the longer term infrastructure, safety, security, and wellness of movement leaders and their organizations - so that they can continue the vital role they play fighting the forces of authoritarianism and white supremacy. We will prioritize supporting the leaders of Black and Indigenous poor & working-class movements in recognition for the current and historical role those communities have played instigating and leading efforts to positively transform this country.
The Trust will exist as a collaborative pool of money for movement leaders and organizations that are currently in deep collaboration with each other. Once enough money is raised, the fund will then invite other movement organizations into the collaboration. For sake of the security of organizations involved, the list of participating organizations and leaders will not be publicly available. Likewise, the fund will not consider unsolicited applications for funding or collaboration. In lieu of this typical but unfeasible non-profit-informed version of transparency, the leadership of the fund is relying on networks of trusted relationship to vouch for the work without revealing the vulnerable movements leaders and organizations involved.
Your donations will ensure that our organizers have the infrastructure, support, security, and space for healing that they need to continue the fight.