The Weingart Foundation is a private grantmaking foundation advancing racial, social and economic justice in Southern California. Founded in 1951 by Ben and Stella Weingart, the Foundation has provided over $1 billion in grants and loans to thousands of organizations across the region. By strengthening organizations focused on providing critical services and building power in communities of color, the Weingart Foundation is demonstrating what is possible when we invest and trust in our partners.

Mission

The Weingart Foundation partners with communities across Southern California to advance racial, social, and economic justice for all.

Yesterday was a day of deep reflection as we processed the results of the 2024 elections and the implications for our communities. Today, we rise with an unwavering commitment to our racial justice mission undeterred by efforts to slow us down or take us backward by those who do not share our values of equity, justice, and dignity for all people.

We are acutely aware of the challenges before us, and we will speak boldly and truthfully about our history and the reality of who we are as a nation. It is not the truth that divides us; rather, it is truth itself that will liberate us, paving the way for the thriving multiracial democracy we are determined to build.

To our community partners on the frontlines working towards a just future for all who face marginalization, we see you and stand with you inspired by the courageous work you do in the face of great challenges. We will continue to work alongside you, deepening partnerships and fostering true solidarity across communities to grow the multi-racial movement for a stronger and more unified Southern California where everyone truly thrives.

Now is the time for us to be bold and lead from the heart, with love for humanity, resolute in advancing our vision of the beloved community we know is possible for all of us. We will collaborate with our philanthropic partners across sectors to leverage our voices and resources to invest in movement building while firmly denouncing the racist and hateful rhetoric that seeks to divide us.

We stand for belonging—for all those who have been marginalized and oppressed. The future we envision is grounded in justice and equity for Black and Indigenous people, for our Latino, Asian, and Pacific Islander communities, for our Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim, and South Asian (AMEMSA) neighbors, for our immigrant families, our queer and trans siblings, and our disabled communities.

Together, we will remain a driving force for transformative change across California and beyond. Our work will shine as a beacon of hope and resilience, illuminating the path toward a fully inclusive democracy for all.

Warm regards,