STANDING FIRM: A LETTER TO THOSE WHO REFUSE TO RETREAT
A BLUEPRINT FOR COLLECTIVE ACTION
Today, I write on behalf of P.S. 314—not just as its founder, but as part of a Collective of strategists, entrepreneurs, and visionaries committed to creating a world of full belonging, equity, and opportunity for all. At P.S. 314, we don't just respond to challenges—we recalibrate. We don't just resist—we build resilience.
The momentum we've built toward racial and economic equity, gender inclusion, and workplace justice has created lasting change. We're now entering a new phase of this work—one that calls for innovation, strategic thinking, and deeper collaboration. History shows us that such moments of transition are where movements find their greatest strength.
Because while the storm may rage, the work does not stop.
For those of us who have dedicated our lives to this work, this moment feels personal. And it should. But here's what we know:
Movements are built in moments like these.
When doors close, we build new ones.
When policies shift, we adapt and advocate.
When funding is threatened, we find new ways to sustain the work.
This is not an endpoint—it is an inflection point.
Imagine an organizer who spent years pushing for systemic change—only to find that the very institutions that once championed her work are now quietly stepping away. She's exhausted and questioning whether this fight will ever get easier.
She is not alone.
Leaders across the sector are asking crucial questions while pioneering solutions:
How do we stay the course when the road ahead is unclear? Through building adaptable strategies that thrive in changing environments
How do we sustain this work without burning out? By creating sustainable models for long-term impact
How do we fight back against the tide of opposition? Through forging powerful coalitions that amplify our collective voice
Corporate equity initiatives face a critical juncture—some being defunded or quietly abandoned, while others are finding innovative paths forward. This moment presents an opportunity to strengthen our approach through new strategies, even as political and economic pressures intensify. We're seeing organizations pioneer new equity approaches, build stronger coalitions, and develop sustainable funding models that ensure long-term impact. Some may retreat into silence, but many are choosing to advance with purpose and clarity.
Recent political shifts have intensified these challenges, with equity-focused mandates facing increasing opposition at various levels of government. Major cultural institutions are seeing their funding and leadership structures politicized, threatening the independence of organizations committed to storytelling that uplifts diverse perspectives.
Despite the urgency of systemic inequities, philanthropic giving has not kept pace with community needs. Black-led organizations, often driving systemic change, receive just 1.8% of philanthropic dollars—a stark disparity that demands action. We see tremendous opportunity to increase these dollars through innovative practices and models that already exist. Organizations like the Southern Reconstruction Fund demonstrate how targeted investment in Black leadership fuels transformative change, strengthening entire movements and communities.
This moment requires us to pivot with purpose—redefining sustainability, strengthening our networks, and doubling down on our commitment to justice.
Our Blueprint for Collective Action
1. Build Stronger Coalitions
We cannot do this alone. Now is the time to solidify partnerships and create alliances that amplify impact. By working together, we protect each other and ensure that no organization stands alone.
Coalition Building in Action:
The Southern Reconstruction Fund strengthens Black-led movements in the South.
The Native American Community Development Institute builds coalitions to support Indigenous sovereignty through economic development and cultural preservation.
2. Leverage Advocacy for Lasting Change
Policies shape the possibilities for social change. We must be present in the conversations that determine the future of our work. That means understanding the legal landscape, engaging in policy discussions, and using our voices strategically to push for systemic protection of equity initiatives.
Effective Advocacy in Action:
The National Domestic Workers Alliance successfully advocated for labor protections for household workers.
Third Sector Capital Partners leads public-private partnerships that tie funding to measurable equity outcomes, ensuring that government dollars support programs that truly benefit underserved communities.
3. Center Communities in Decision-Making
The people most impacted by injustice must be the architects of the solutions. Holding listening sessions, building grassroots leadership, and making decisions with—not for—communities ensures that strategies remain relevant and rooted in real needs.
Community-Led Change in Action:
Sins Invalid shapes disability justice policy with a framework rooted in intersectionality.
The National Black Food and Justice Alliance creates land ownership opportunities for Black farmers and food justice advocates.
4. We Integrate Equity into the DNA of Organizations
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) cannot be a checkbox, a temporary initiative, or a department that can be dismantled when it becomes politically inconvenient. Equity must be embedded into every level of an organization—woven into hiring and leadership structures, funding decisions, program design, and operational strategy.
The most successful organizations will not be those that view equity as optional, but those that build it into their governance models, leadership pipelines, and decision-making frameworks. This work is not about “compliance”; it is about creating resilient, innovative, and truly inclusive institutions.
Embedding Equity in Action:
PolicyLink has developed the "Equity in the Center" framework, providing organizations with actionable strategies to move from optics to real operational transformation.
Race Forward helps organizations apply a racial equity lens to policies, programs, and internal culture to prevent DEI rollbacks.
5. Diversify Revenue and Financial Sustainability
Justice-driven organizations must secure financial resilience by expanding funding streams, reducing dependence on short-term grants, and leveraging impact investing and earned income strategies.
Financial Resilience in Action:
Women’s Bean Project employs women facing barriers to employment, generating revenue through gourmet food sales.
Root Capital provides financial training and loans to agricultural businesses in Latin America and Africa, strengthening rural economies while delivering measurable social impact.
6. We Change the Narrative
The resistance to equity work thrives on misinformation, fear, and strategic disinformation campaigns that portray inclusion as a threat rather than an opportunity. To counteract this, we own the narrative—using data, storytelling, and values-based messaging to show why justice, equity, and shared power create a better future for all.
Equity work does not just defend against attacks—it must actively shape the public imagination, making it clear that diversity, justice, and inclusion are not abstract ideals but concrete forces for innovation, community well-being, and economic prosperity.
Narrative Change in Action:
Color of Change leverages media and grassroots campaigns to shift public perception and counter narratives that attack racial equity.
Define American partners with film, television, and news organizations to reshape the way immigrants and communities of color are portrayed in media.
7. Prioritize Leadership Sustainability
Sustainable movements require sustainable leaders. Burnout is real, and those who carry the weight of systemic failures on their shoulders need rest and replenishment. We must prioritize well-being, sustainability, and leadership development so that those fighting for justice can continue the fight without sacrificing themselves in the process.
Leader-Centered Sustainability in Action:
The Transgender Law Center invests in leadership development for transgender and nonbinary advocates.
Black Feminist Future creates networks of support for Black women and gender-expansive leaders in the social impact sector.
A Call to Purpose-Driven Leaders
This work needs people willing to hold the line, challenge the new status quo, and shape the next era of social impact. If you are searching for where you belong in this moment, know this: There has never been a more urgent time to step into leadership. Our advice to you:
Seek Organizations with Integrity – Align with institutions that have demonstrated a real commitment to justice, not just rhetoric.
Tap into Networks of Change-Makers – Engage with professional groups, coalitions, and movements that are actively shaping the landscape.
Invest in Your Own Growth – Build the skills, relationships, and resilience needed to sustain a career in impact-driven work.
At P.S. 314, we are committed to connecting values-aligned professionals with opportunities that matter. If you’re seeking a place where your work can have meaning, explore our Social Impact Job Dashboard—a resource for those looking to lead in this time of transition.
We are here as a resource, an ally, and a force for strategic action. Whether you are a leader seeking guidance, an organization looking for support, or an advocate in need of community, we invite you to connect, strategize, and build with us.
It is the latest chapter in a long history of transformation and breakthrough.
We have been here before. And each time, movements have emerged stronger and more innovative.This time is no different.
Together, we will continue the work of justice, equity, and systemic change.
In solidarity…Onward!
This bi-weekly PSA is written by Pi-Isis S. Ankhra, speaker, writer, executive coach and business strategist. She is the founder and president of P.S.314, a consulting practice supporting social impact organizations in building power, sustainability and authentic partnerships.