Diving Deep on Equity and Power: Exploring Shifts in Philanthropic Practice With the Iceberg Model

Abstract

Confronting questions of systemic racism and the fallout from a pandemic requires a look inward at the practices, policies, structures, mindsets, and cultural norms that govern how foundations operate. The experience of The California Endowment and the James Irvine Foundation shows what can be learned from this period of crisis and disruption. This article illustrates how each funder used the iconic iceberg model as a tool to move beyond surface-level responses to explore eight tangible, equity-focused changes in the way they practice philanthropy. This article also reflects on what it takes to shift norms, structures, and power in ways that lead to equitable outcomes and embed equity throughout an organization - and what gets in the way.