The Ford Foundation has always realized that social justice is not attainable without the engagement of people with disabilities. In adherence to the principle "nothing about us without us," the foundation collaborates with the disability community to inform both its strategies and projects.
This collaboration ensures that those with lived experience are at the forefront, guiding the foundation in its advocacy for disability rights.
Strategic Programs and Initiatives
The Ford Foundation's commitment to disability rights is evident in a range of key activities:
1. Disability Rights Program of the USA
In October 2021, the foundation launched its first-ever grantmaking program focused on advancing the rights of people with disabilities in the United States. With a $10-million annual budget, this program is directed towards:
- Encouraging Economic Empowerment: Introducing policies and designing programs that expand economic opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
- Strengthening Disability Organizations: Providing multi-year, core funding to bolster the infrastructure of disability rights organizations.
- Developing Diverse Leadership: Establishing a pipeline of leaders from social justice organizations as well as disability-led organizations.
- Counteracting Disability Stigma: Challenging and reshaping social perceptions to eliminate stigma toward disabilities.
This program was crafted following consultations with around 200 disability leaders across the nation, ensuring it addresses the most pressing issues in society.
2. Disability Inclusion Initiative
Initiated in 2016, the Disability Inclusion Initiative sought to integrate disability considerations into all aspects of the foundation's operations and grantmaking. By setting specific targets and providing resources to incentivize disability-inclusive grantmaking, the foundation successfully tripled its disability-related funding between 2018 and 2021.
3. Disability Futures Fellowship
In partnership with the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the Ford Foundation established the Disability Futures Fellowship in 2020. This program awards $50,000 annually to 20 disabled artists, writers, and performers, recognizing and supporting their contributions to the arts and culture.
Shared Activities and Partnerships
The Ford Foundation acknowledges that progress in disability rights is best achieved through partnerships:
- National Education Association (NEA): The foundation partnered with the NEA to launch a project aimed at raising awareness and eliminating structural discrimination impacting individuals with disabilities.
- President's Council on Disability Inclusion in Philanthropy: The foundation played a leadership role in forming this council, with a vision of shaping the philanthropic sector to prioritize disability inclusion in both grantmaking and operations.
Impact and Future Directions
Through its dedicated programs and collaborations, the Ford Foundation has significantly advanced disability rights, fostering a culture of inclusion and equity.
By integrating disability considerations into its core operations and building strong coalitions, the foundation remains a leading advocate for the rights and well-being of people with disabilities.
To learn more about the Ford Foundation's disability rights initiatives, visit their official website.
