Issues

Why It Matters

An active, knowledgeable citizenry is critical to strengthening democratic practice and securing social justice.

The Focus of Our Work

All of our work supports efforts that help people become participants in the decisions that have an impact on their lives. We do this primarily by supporting robust and inclusive civic organizations that bring diverse people together and give them a voice in the democratic process.

Our global work focuses on strengthening the right of people to assemble and advocate and on promoting greater government transparency and accountability on issues ranging from public spending to the reform of key global institutions that govern the flow of resources.

In the United States, we also focus on reforms that protect every individual's right to participation in the political process, including ensuring an accurate census count, fair redistricting and full access to voting.

Issue Initiative Democratic and Accountable Government

• Increasing Civic and Political Participation
• Promoting Electoral Reform and Democratic Participation
• Promoting Transparent, Effective and Accountable Government
• Strengthening Civil Society and Philanthropy

---

Economic Fairness

• Building Economic Security Over a Lifetime
• Expanding Livelihood Opportunities for Poor Households
• Improving Access to Financial Services
• Improving the Quality of Jobs
• Promoting Economic Stability and Job Advancement
• Promoting the Next-Generation Workforce Strategies

---

Educational Opportunity and Scholarship

• Higher Education for Social Justice
• More and Better Learning Time
• Transforming Secondary Education

---

Freedom of Expression

• Advancing Media Rights and Access
• Advancing Public Service Media
• JustFilms
• Media and Justice
• Religion in the Public Sphere
• Supporting Diverse Arts Spaces

---

Gender, Sexuality and Reproductive Justice

• Advancing LGBT Rights
• Promoting Reproductive Rights and the Right to Sexual Health
• Protecting Women's Rights
• Reducing HIV/AIDS Discrimination and Exclusion
• Supporting Sexuality Research
• Youth Sexuality, Reproductive Health, and Rights

---

Human Rights

• Advancing Racial Justice and Minority Rights
• Internet Rights
• Protecting Immigrant and Migrant Rights
• Reforming Civil and Criminal Justice Systems
• Strengthening Human Rights Worldwide

---

Metropolitan Opportunity

• Connecting People to Opportunity
• Expanding Access to Quality Housing
• Just Cities
• Promoting Metropolitan Land-Use Innovation

---

Sustainable Development

• Climate Change Responses That Strengthen Rural Communities
• Expanding Community Rights Over Natural Resources

---