On August 14, 2021, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit Haiti. Hundreds have been deeply affected and thousands are injured while others will be left homeless or jobless. It can be tricky to determine how to sift through the information to prioritize philanthropic action. Our colleagues at Hispanics in Philanthropy and the Center for Disaster Philanthropy have both compiled lists of trusted resources to help philanthropy bring attention and aid to affected communities. We encourage you to review these resources and share your generosity by making donations to affected residents of the island.

The Declaration of Independence, written 245 years ago, inspired a revolution that helped birth a nation. The power of the Declaration’s “self-evident” truths also inspired global movements for human rights and democracy that remain powerful today, by declaring that all “are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” As we emerge from a tumultuous year—of pandemic, racial strife, and party polarization—it is worth returning to these fundamental truths, and to reflect on how they might help us heal and rebuild our incredibly diverse nation. This 4th of July weekend, a group of funders, thinkers, creators, and community leaders are launching the New Declaration campaign, which invites every community to join in reflection and creative expression. Our goal is to strengthen the foundations of our nation in advance of the Declaration’s 250th anniversary in 2026.