Dear Friends, Last year was the first time Maine recognized Indigenous People’s Day as an official state holiday in replacement of Columbus Day. This was an important shift, but not enough to ensure that Indigenous communities are recognized and respected as sovereign nations. It is our responsibility not to think of this as a day […]

Dear Friend, Our systems are broken. The lack of charges against Breonna Taylor’s murderers is another painful reminder of the way racism is baked into the laws and policies of our country. This denial of justice reflects a pattern of incalculable harm done to Black and Indigenous communities over many generations, and still today. Meanwhile, […]

Announcing the The Immigrant-Led Organizations Fund’s Newest Grantees! Dear Friends: If there’s one thing I know for certain, it’s that getting money directly into the hands of those most impacted by this pandemic isn’t just good, it’s necessary. That’s why we’re making $270,000 in grants to support 32 immigrant-led and immigrant-serving organizations on the frontlines of the […]

Maine students have returned to school this fall and while classes range from virtual, to in-person, to some combination of the two, it’s clear that there’s no magic solution to the challenges that COVID-19 presents. Existing inequities within the education system will be exacerbated without the support that community-based organizations provide to ensure that students’ race, class, […]

If you would like to support organizations working on education equity, consider the following organizations: Indigo Arts Alliance Indigo Arts Alliance’s purpose is to build global connections by bringing together artists from diverse backgrounds of the African Diaspora to engage in their creative process with an opportunity to serve as both mentors and mentees. An integral aspect […]

Dear Friend, What has put a smile on your face lately? For us, it’s been the sweet notes we’ve received from community members like you. Just a few weeks ago, an “almost 11 year old” named Lily from Brunswick baked and sold cookies, bars, and cupcakes to raise funds to help those in need during […]

SPOTLIGHT TAKEOVER: Amjambo Africa! Maine Initiatives grantee, Ladder to the Moon Network, runs a free newspaper publication called Amjambo Africa, an incredible source of news, information, and community for New Mainers and the broader community alike. This week, we are turning over the COVID-19 Issue Spotlight to Amjambo Africa’s Editor-in-Chief, Kit Harrison, who brings to us a sample of their […]

Dear Friend, How is it nearly August?! We hope you’ve been able to enjoy these summer weeks (despite the chaos of the world), and that this July newsletter provides you with some important updates about the ongoing justice work happening across the state. In solidarity, The Maine Initiatives Team IMPORTANT UPDATES: Nonprofit Relief Fund On […]