“The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
I have loved this quote since I was a kid. But today, more than ever, I understand that justice doesn’t bend on its own. It takes work, courage and collective action to ensure the arc moves in the right direction.
As we honor Black History Month, I am reflecting on what this moment in history demands of us. With a new administration in power, we are already seeing executive orders that threaten the rights, dignity and well-being of the very communities we stand with and support. Meyer will not be silent in the face of injustice.
So let me be clear: Meyer remains unwavering in our mission and resolute in our commitment to the people and places of Oregon. We are the same Meyer we were before January 20. The election may have shifted the political landscape, but it has not changed our principles. We will not retreat. We will not compromise our values. Instead, we will deepen our resolve, expand our support and accelerate our efforts where they are needed most.
Responding with Urgency
Last month, Meyer committed $1 million in rapid-response funding to organizations that have long been preparing for this moment. Groups like the ACLU of Oregon, Western States Center and Rural Organizing Project are actively working on the front lines to protect civil rights, defend democracy and build coalitions. We will continue to fund and amplify the efforts of those who protect vulnerable and marginalized communities.
We are also streamlining and increasing funding to the Oregon Immigrant and Refugee Collaborative so that critical dollars can flow swiftly to organizations supporting immigrants, refugees and communities under direct threat. We are committed to acting decisively so that the essential work of advocacy, legal defense and community support continues.
Investing in the kind of coalition building, leadership support, community organizing and policy work that will be necessary to protect vital civil rights is fundamental to building a stronger and more resilient Oregon.
We know that federal funding plays a critical role in our community, providing the resources that many Oregonians may not otherwise have access to. The chaotic implementation of executive orders has already resulted in funding freezes for some organizations, disrupting their ability to provide essential services. While local philanthropy doesn't have the ability to provide that same scale of funding, Meyer is committed to finding ways we can support frontline organizations so that their work can continue without interruption.
Planning for the Future: Building a United Front
Beyond immediate response, we are engaging with community leaders, policymakers and philanthropic partners at both the state and national levels to align strategies, leverage resources and ensure long-term resilience. The challenges ahead demand not just funding but coordination, learning and collective action. By strengthening our networks and deepening collaboration, we position ourselves to not only resist harmful policies but to build toward a more just future.
A Call to Action: The Society We Choose to Build
Last week, at the Mark O. Hatfield Lecture in Portland, I had the honor of hearing from Pulitzer Prize-winning author, educator and founder of The 1619 Project, Nikole Hannah-Jones. Among her many powerful insights, one in particular lingers in my mind:
“The society we have is not the one we have to have.”
This moment in history is ours to shape. Philanthropy is just one piece of the puzzle, but Meyer is steadfast in our commitment to leveraging our resources in solidarity with the individuals, organizations and institutions fighting for a just future. Together, we will protect, defend and build the Oregon we all deserve.
We move forward with hope, with determination and with you.
— Toya