Grant will give Black activists time to heal and recharge

Mothers Against Community Gun Violence led marchers through North Minneapolis during a rally in 2020. Photo by David Pierini

By David Pierini, Editor

Black activists are powered by a “will-not-rest” bearing in hopes of ending discrimination and injustice in their communities. The pursuit can sap the energy of the most determined leaders. 

The Cultural Wellness Center and the Pohlad Family Foundation are launching a first-of-its kind grant to give Black activists resources and support to rest, reflect and recharge. 

The Black Legacy and Leadership Enrichment Initiative will select seven activists for each of the next three years to receive an unrestricted $55.000 grant for their own self-care. Each winner will receive an extra $15,000 for their specific community work. 

The deadline for applying for the first round of grants is Jan. 30 (Click the link above to learn about the application). 

“What we want to do is create a space, the kind of space for people to consider ‘What is it going to take for me to rest, What will it take for me to feel revitalized,,’ ” said Elder Atum Azzahir, executive director of The Cultural Wellness Center. “We’d like to be there to support, to create the space But other than that, when we say unrestricted, we mean unrestricted.

“The history of where activists are and what activists have had to do is you’re an activist, healer, an artist, all of those things. It can be physically, spiritually and emotionally exhausting. It’s a calling. You don’t expect to get anything in return.”

Black activists from a variety of fronts, such as anti-violence, police brutality, youth work, food insecurity and housing justice, are encouraged to apply. 

Judges want grantees to consider taking 12 months to themselves to refresh and recover so that can continue to make a difference in their communities.

The money could be used for anything, including retreats, resources, travel,  living expenses and family and childcare to name a few. There will also be invitations to take part in group reflection, check-ins with care guides as needed and learn from cultural elders.