top of page


Black philanthropy collaborative reflects on five years, state of philanthropy today
The field of philanthropy lacks diversity, and there aren’t enough Black people on foundation boards or serving as senior executives. That was the message from Susan Taylor Batten, president and CEO of ABFE: A Philanthropic Partnership for Black Communities and one of the speakers at the annual convening of the Arkansas Black Philanthropy Collaborative. “The importance of what we call ‘affinity groups’ in the field of philanthropy is absolutely necessary, because we have to


What Post-Election Narratives Reveal About the United States
Since the election, the media has been full of thought pieces from liberal outlets and progressive commentators critiquing the Democratic Party’s emphasis on “identity politics” and subsequent alienation of the working class. This election was indeed all about identity politics: a coded, intentional, and strategic effort orchestrated by conservatives over multiple decades. Race (Whiteness) was front and center—and the people have spoken. Now, those of us working toward the


Choosing Celebration in this Holiday Season: A “Thank You’ to Dr. Sherece West-Scantlebury for her Gift of Leadership in Philanthropy
Hello ABFE members and supporters! As we wind down the year, I am reaching out to wish each and every one of you a safe and joyous holiday season. It is almost impossible to put into words what kind of a year this has been. What I do know is that bold, courageous leadership is the only way forward, trusting that we as a people will be okay. It is with this sentiment that I chose celebration over fret as I write this message. And there is no better way to celebrate courageou
bottom of page

