Rodney Foxworth: Community—The Driving Force Behind Economic Inclusion

Rodney Foxworth says the racial “wealth gap” is a misnomer because it implies something that’s achievable to close. “Wealth chasm” is more on the nose since we’re talking about disparities created by centuries of oppression. Growing up in Baltimore, Rodney witnessed firsthand what many Black and brown communities face in America—systemic racism, over policing, economic dislocation. Now, as CEO of Common Future, he draws on that lived experience to create a network of organizations across the country that builds relationships and economic power in historically exploited communities.  

In the wake of the pandemic and the death of George Floyd, Common Future redistributed 10 percent of its operating budget—in one week—into a rapid COVID response fund. Meanwhile larger, deep-pocketed foundations struggled to spring into action. What can wealthy, predominantly white organizations learn from Common Future’s community-based approach? Rodney talks with Courtney about the “duty to community” that guides everything from his moral compass to his work building an inclusive economy.

For show notes and transcripts, go to https://skoll.org/2021/04/21/solvers-episode-one-rodney-foxworth-community-the-driving-force-behind-economic-inclusion/
On social media: @skollfoundation #solverspod
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