Blog

Justice is not illegal, and advocacy for ideas and reforms to elevate the human condition and spirit are protected by the U.S. Constitution. We will not allow the fog of injustice to impair our sightlines in the pursuit of fairness.

Nathan Cummings Foundation has long partnered with institutions and individuals on a justice journey to improve unfair systems. Acceptance of the status quo would legitimize a view of our nation where ongoing economic disparity is considered acceptable. Data shows that far too many people lack access to opportunities and must navigate a path littered with obstacles. As a foundation, we have the duty and privilege to invest in solutions to address these longstanding problems.

We made an informed decision in November 2017 to allocate 100% of our endowment to mission-related and impact investments. In doing so, we rejected the false choice between quality financial returns and using capital to achieve positive societal outcomes. As a fiduciary of capital and a stakeholder in this world, we see the benefits of investing with purpose and what this means for people and the planet. And the results have been positive and measurable.

Justice Never Stands Still

In November 2022, we adopted a strategic plan to guide our efforts. We embraced a “Totality of Assets” approach that leverages all financial and people capital to advance Racial, Economic, and Environmental Justice. This North Star guides our actions, from grants and lending to communications and our endowment, and more.

Today, our humble journey continues unabated by words, distractions, and distortions. We do what we do not as a response to any point of view but because of our values, which are not seasonally adjusted. They endure!

Nothing we do is a solo endeavor, and we continue to seek partners and ideas. We embrace the interdependence that creates new pathways of opportunity creation and solutions.

Along the way, we know that we will not always agree with how they see the world, but our eyes clarify our sightlines, and the data informs our minds enough to know that we have not reached justice for all. We will keep working until then.

Justice requires a journey, and for the sake of all, it must – and shall – continue.

Rey Ramsey
President & CEO
Nathan Cummings Foundation