The results of the 2024 elections mark a critical inflection point for the future of our democracy and for California. We at The California Endowment recognize that the national and state election results and the surrounding socio-political climate require a deepening of our commitment to advancing health equity and justice.

We share the deep concerns of our community partners about the rising vitriol and hate against the most vulnerable and marginalized communities, the attacks on democratic principles, and the backlash against California’s progress toward health and racial justice. We understand the root causes lay in historic and structural forces of racism that perpetuate health inequities and, therefore, recognize that bolstering a strong, multiracial democracy is critical to our health mission.

We are also deeply inspired by our grantee partners’ courage and vision for a just and inclusive California. California has made tremendous progress toward racial justice and health equity over the last few decades due in large part to our state’s robust organizing that builds community power for change. Our partners and those most marginalized should have full faith that we will continue to walk this path with them.

We want everyone to know:

We stand firmly with communities fighting to transform our systems so all Californians can thrive.

We see both the promise and demonstrated impact of efforts to remove structural barriers to health equity and the bold reimaging of life-affirming systems, which has resulted in improved health and wellness for millions of Californians. We will not be deterred by efforts to undermine this progress.

We remain committed to racial justice and power-building.

While there are those who attack California for its diversity, values, and progress on racial justice and inclusion, we know these are our strengths and that California represents the future of our nation. We are steadfast in our commitment to fueling power-building in Black, Indigenous, immigrant, and other communities across the state most impacted by health injustice and inequality. We know it is the most effective way to accomplish lasting change.

We will center trust-building with our partners.

Our ability to achieve our mission relies heavily on the trust and relationships we have with our partners and community. TCE believes that those who are closest and most impacted by the problems also have the solutions. We stand ready to listen, learn, and partner with our grantees and to resource solutions and strategies that work best for marginalized communities. In addition to our core grantmaking, TCE has committed $10 million over the next year to protect the health, safety, and sustainability of vulnerable communities.

We face this critical moment with an unwavering commitment to improving health outcomes for all Californians. We will continue to stand alongside our partners to push for transformative change that promotes equity, justice, and health.