philanthropy (n.) c. 1600 from Late Latin philanthropia, from Greek philanthropia from phil- "loving" + anthrōpos "mankind"
FACT: A philanthropist is someone who seeks to promote the welfare of others by giving gifts of time, talent, money, and influence.
MYTH: Philanthropy is a privilege of wealth and act of the elite 1%.
FACT: Black Americans give $11 billion annually and donate 25% more of their income to charitable causes.
MYTH: Black people make small contributions and are recipients of charity rather than a source of generosity and agents of change.
Black Houstonians listening to philanthropy presentation. Credit: David "Odiwams" Wright
Suggestions to Increase Race Equity in Houston Philanthropy
A group of colleagues contributed to this piece with the hope of increasing the local philanthropic commitment to achieve race equity in Houston. These ideas are presented as starting points for action.