Across Latin America, thousands of grassroots, Indigenous, and rural organizations continue to be excluded from international funding due to deep-seated racism, colonialism, and structural inequalities. In a recent webinar organized by Kuja Platform, an initiative of Adeso, representatives of philanthropy networks gathered to discuss how they are actively challenging these barriers by creating more just, participatory, and community-driven philanthropic models.

Throughout the conversation, all speakers agreed on several key principles necessary to transform philanthropy:

1. Shift Power to Communities:
   Communities must lead decision-making processes, not just be recipients of aid. Funding models must be co-designed with grassroots organizations.
2. Recognize and Respect Local Knowledge:
   Traditional practices of mutual aid, barter, and collective labor are valuable tools for resilience and should be honored, not dismissed.
3. Trust Over Control:
   Grantmaking should be flexible, allowing communities to define their priorities without paternalistic conditions.
4. Language Matters:
   Terms like “philanthropy” often feel alien or colonial to communities. Many prefer terms like solidarity, mutual aid, or collective care that resonate with their lived experiences.
5. Work Beyond Projects—Strengthen Relationships:
   Philanthropy should foster long-term relationships rooted in trust and shared learning, not just short-term transactions.
6. Listen First, Act Later:
   Donors and Global North institutions should listen deeply before acting, recognizing that solutions are already alive in communities.

Any other ideas and suggestions?