FAQs
Why reparations-based wealth redistribution?
What does it mean to be a giving circle member?
Anyone interested in giving, fundraising, and learning can become a giving circle member, regardless of class or race. Giving circle members commit to:
1. making a personally meaningful monetary contribution
2. fundraising their family and friends
3. participating in 6 political education sessions over the course of 3 months
What will the giving circle sessions entail?
Giving circle members commit to participating in 6 political education sessions (2 hours each) over the course of 3 months. Sessions will cover topics such as family money stories, histories of race and class, reparations and divestment frameworks, fundraising 101, organizing your networks, and more. All members will participate in the planning and facilitation of session agendas. Sessions will be held virtually until further notice.
Can I just make a one-time donation without being a giving circle member?
Yes! Anyone can donate at any time without committing to becoming a giving circle member. That said, we encourage folks who have the capacity to join as members, if possible. We also encourage people to consider making a recurring donation each cycle. Reparations-based wealth redistribution is not a one-and-done; it requires active and consistent choices to move money away from the white and wealthy and toward Black communities. Not only does the continuation of racial capitalism mean ongoing racial wealth disparities, but, as those with class privilege likely know, wealth builds on itself. Disrupting these patterns of inequality requires long-term commitments to swim upstream, to move against the way that money otherwise would move.
How do I know how much to give?
There is no "right" amount to give, but there are some guidelines people use to determine an amount that feels personally and politically meaningful. Here are some ideas (source):
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Track your expenses, savings, income, and debt, and then give away what's left. You could even shift your budget to make room for donations.
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Look at the average amount that people in your income bracket give away. Give more!
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Use a religiously significant figure (i.e. multiples of 18, tithe a percentage of your income).
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Use a politically significant percentage (i.e. white people earn 40% more than Black people on average, so give that percentage of your income away).
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Black Agenda Report calculated a minimum amount of monetary reparations that amounts to roughly $300,000 per white American. Aim to meet this goal!
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Give an amount that makes you uncomfortable.
Do I have to be Black to receive?
Yes! Doing wealth redistribution with a reparations lens means giving specifically to Black individuals, communities, and organizations.
Do I have to be white to give?
No! Anyone who feels able and moved to give can and should, though we especially encourage this from white folks, who categorically benefit most from racial capitalism.
I want to give. How do I participate?
People interested in giving can become giving circle members or simply make one-time donations. To learn more about both options, visit the Give page.
I am a Black resident of Santa Cruz County. How do I receive money?