Charitable Giving:  Consider the Gift of Democracy

The Tuesday after Thanksgiving has traditionally been the start of giving season.  Many people make charitable donations this time of year, for benevolence and an added benefit of tax deductions.  The good news:  many non-profits have two entities, one tax-deductible and one not.  Both types of funds do the essential work that shores up our democracy.   Read about the different actions these types of donations will support.

American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU):  You can give directly to the ACLU or you can make a tax deductible donation to the ACLU Foundation.  If you do not need a tax deduction, please give to the direct fund, for the most flexible use of your money.  Some fun items in their shop too!

Democracy Forward: A national legal organization that advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy and public education, and regulatory engagement.  Donations are tax deductible. You can also buy gifts at their store.

Lawyers Defending American Democracy: Unites members of the legal profession in enforcing and upholding principles of democracy and law, demanding accountability from lawyers and public officials, and calling out attacks on legal norms and prescribing redress.  Donations are tax-deductible.  They also have great webinars and a community discussion guide to Ken’s Burn’s American Revolution Documentary.

Public Citizen: A nonprofit consumer advocacy organization that champions the public interest in the halls of power. They defend democracy, resist corporate power, and fight to ensure that government works for the people – not big corporations.  You can choose to donate directly or to their tax-deductible foundation.

BIJAN/”Beyond“: A network of volunteers in eastern MA that supports people in immigration detention in New England. They are closely affiliated with LUCE. They also host the Beyond Bond and Legal Defense Fund (BBLDF) that pays immigration bonds for people with a connection to MA. Donations to the Bond Fund are tax-deductible.

LUCE:  Immigrant Justice Network: Neighbor to Neighbor MA Education Fund, a 501c3, is collecting contributions to the LUCE hotline on behalf of the LUCE Immigrant Justice Network of MA. All contributions will be used to support the LUCE hotline and other LUCE initiatives. You will receive a tax receipt from Neighbor to Neighbor MA Education Fund. Support the LUCE hotline and network.

Massachusetts Access to Counsel Initiative (MACI): A joint effort between MIRA Coalition, CPCS, and a statewide network of legal organizations. Together, we’re building a centralized intake and referral system for individuals in Massachusetts facing Immigration Court proceedings. Through a single intake line, detained and non-detained individuals from Massachusetts will be able to request help and be connected with an available legal service provider for potential representation.  Donate to support their work.

Defending Our Neighbors Fund: A nationwide initiative hosted by the United We Dream Network, the ACLU, and the Abundant Futures Fund. It is a historic, national effort to make sure our immigrant neighbors have fair access to legal representation. The Defending Our Neighbors Fund moves quickly to meet the needs of immigrant families. They make grants to trusted legal service providers and, when possible, community bond funds nationwide. These organizations work near detention centers, in areas where lawyers are scarce, and in communities with large immigrant populations. Donations are made through the Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, and are tax-deductible. Donate

GBH or WBUR: Trump removed all Federal funding for PBS and public media stations. Now, more than ever, we need accessible, truthful media.  Your donation helps shape the future of public media.  GBH and WBUR are independent news organizations with an unyielding promise: to speak to your head, your heart and your humanity. Your contribution today makes you a partner in keeping our community informed with vital, thoughtful and trustworthy reporting.  Bonus:  You get Passport to watch programs on demand!  Your donations to GBH and WBUR are tax-deductible.