Darren Walker Profile picture
President of @FordFoundation. Hope is the oxygen of democracy. #socialchange #philanthropy
Sep 28, 2020 4 tweets 1 min read
In a recent interview, I used the term “tone deaf” inappropriately & out of context from its literal definition. I am deeply sorry for using this ableist language & apologize to the millions of people with disabilities and the disability community. Since becoming the president of the Ford Foundation, we have committed to advancing justice and dignity for all people. Through this process, I have been on my own change journey to learn & understand more about the critical nature of justice and disability.
Jun 3, 2020 5 tweets 3 min read
The murders of #GeorgeFloyd, #BreonnaTaylor, #AhmaudArbery, #TonyMcDade & many others are tragedies that have played out time for over four centuries in America--the result of generations of inhumane treatment, oppression, racism & injustice. bit.ly/justice-for-Ge… (1/5) It’s long past time to address the deep, systemic, and structural inequalities faced by black and brown people. My @FordFoundation colleagues and I are in solidarity with those calling for safety, dignity, opportunity, reform, and justice. (2/5)
Feb 26, 2020 4 tweets 4 min read
Two years ago, @FordFoundation piloted @africanofilter to learn how to best support the amazing storytellers, culture makers, and truth finders in Africa breaking negative narratives across the continent. #AfricaNoFilter @africanofilter (1/4) Today, we're excited to announce the next stage for @africanofilter starting with its new executive director @mokymakura. africanofilter.com/anf-announces-… @africanofilter (2/4) Image
Feb 26, 2020 5 tweets 4 min read
Today we are addressing narrative change at #AfricaNoFilter Summit. A barrier that keeps Africans from reaching their full potential is the dominant narratives that unfairly portray Africa, affecting the way the continent is perceived by those outside it. @africanofilter (1/5) We’ve heard how Western perspectives or views from the Global North can overshadow and undermine the local narratives and lived experiences that should inform our understanding of Africa. #AfricaNoFilter @africanofilter (2/5)
Jan 8, 2020 4 tweets 4 min read
I had the pleasure of talking to @NickKristof of the @nytimes about privilege, philanthropy and justice. Growing up in a small town in Texas, I have always been confronted by the recognition of where I had privilege and where I didn’t. @NickKristof @nytimes In order to address injustice, we cannot be afraid to grapple with the privilege we have. For me, that has meant using the privilege I have as the President of @FordFoundation as we strengthen institutions and make change.
Sep 19, 2019 6 tweets 3 min read
In the current age of extremes, the all or nothing approach prevents us from solving the challenges we face today. Here's the case for nuance and complexity. fordfoundation.org/ideas/equals-c… (1/6) Without nuance and complexity, we cannot build bridges. Common goals are framed as coercive demands; potential partners & experts unnecessarily cast as victims or enemies. Oppositional, nuance-averse posture rewards ideological purity & public shame. fordfoundation.org/ideas/equals-c… (2/6)
Jan 9, 2019 4 tweets 3 min read
#Philanthropy was crucial in creating the blueprint for social progress in the 20th century. Today, we have an obligation to continue to listen and do better. Here's how—a vision for philanthropy in the new year. #FromGenerositytoJustice fordfoundation.org/ideas/equals-c… (1/4) As our system falters under the inequality it has produced, those of us who have benefitted from it need to look in the mirror and ask why—and how we can fix it, with justice as our objective. #FromGenerositytoJustice. fordfoundation.org/ideas/equals-c… (2/4)