Feminist News and Information

WEEKLY NEWS // FEBRUARY 5, 2026

// FROM THE DESK OF ADA WILLIAMS PRINCE, CHAIR OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, WOMEN'S FUNDING NETWORK

Trust is the Future

In recognition of Black History Month, WFN Board Chair, Ada Williams Prince, reflects on Afrofuturism, trust, and what it will take for philanthropy to fully resource Black women’s leadership.

Dear Colleagues,

Black History Month calls us not only to remember, but to imagine—and to design what comes next.

As an Afro-futurist, I believe the future is built at the intersection of memory, truth, and possibility. Afrofuturism is not fantasy; it is a practice of reclaiming the past, interrogating the present, and insisting that Black communities—especially Black women—are trusted architects of the future.

Today, the data is clear: Black women lead with vision and innovation, yet remain deeply underfunded and under-trusted. At Women’s Funding Network, we are learning what becomes possible when trust replaces gatekeeping—and when leadership is resourced, not questioned.

👉 Read the full Opening Letter [[link removed]] to explore how trust, data, and imagination can shape a more just philanthropic future.

Ada Williams Prince

Chair, Board of Directors

Women’s Funding Network

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News from WFN WFN NEW MEMBERS & 2026 MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

Our network thrives on the strength and diversity of our members. Please join us in welcoming to the network new WFN members:

Geaux Girl Giving CollectiveTamieka AtkinsWomen's Economic Ventures

Please also join us in appreciating WFN members who have renewed 2026 membership since our last newsletter:

Fondo SemillasFrontline Women's FundTexas Women's FoundationVermont Women's FundWNY Women's FoundationWomen's Foundation for a Greater MemphisWomen's Fund of OmahaWomenStrong InternationalWorking for Women

If you are interested in joining as a new member or renewing your current membership, please let us know [mailto:[email protected]].

CALL FOR WFN BOARD OF DIRECTORS NOMINATIONS

The Women's Funding Network seeks [[link removed]] nominations [[link removed]] of qualified candidates to serve on our volunteer governing body. The board seeks nominees who are deeply committed to gender justice, energized by complexity, and ready to leverage their influence, networks, and resources in service of collective action. Nominations will begin being considered on March 1, 2026, but interested candidates are encouraged to apply at any time. Learn more here [[link removed]].

WFN EVENTS

Join this 4-part virtual series [[link removed]] to understand why building transnational solidarity and grounding in internationalism is essential in the present global moment of political crisis and rising authoritarianism. Hear from movement and philanthropic leaders around the world on how they have continued to advance their visions under challenging conditions. While live, online participation is encouraged. This series is hosted by Thousand Currents and co-hosted with The Donors of Color Network, Solidaire Network, Resource Generation, EDGE Funders Alliance, Women Moving Millions, Women's Funding Network, Women Donors Network, and The Human Rights Funders Network.

March 3-12, 2026 | 1:00 - 4:30 p.m. CST | Register here [[link removed]]

WFN MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

WFN launched the Member Spotlight Campaign last month to celebrate the diversity and impact of our network while building stronger connections across our community. This month, we are pleased to introduce a new member, African Women for Change Network (AFNet) [[link removed]], based in Columbus, Ohio.

African Women for Change Network (AFNet) supports women leaders around the globe through programs that empower and foster their efforts in helping the underprivileged while developing their communities. Founded in 2023, AFNet is dedicated to reshaping women’s lives through education, networking, and economic empowerment. They support women who are giving back to their communities in a positive way. We welcome Mercy Dahn Blyden, Executive Director, and her team to the network.

News from WFN Members MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS

Justice + Joy National Collaborative released their Envisioning New Structures Fellowship Research Report [[link removed]]. The Envisioning New Structures (ENS) Research Fellowship was created to center the voices, leadership, and expertise of girls and gender-expansive young people of color as researchers, storytellers, and advocates for mental health justice. This report focuses on the findings from their fellowship.

The W.K. Kellogg Foundation announced the semifinalists [[link removed]] to its "How We Heal: Films that connect us, stories that renew us" -- a nationwide short film lab elevating powerful stories about racial healing. It highlights how cinematic storytelling can build understanding and strengthen connection because while our lived experiences may differ, our futures our linked. The 10 semifinalists were selected by a group of respected film industry leaders.

The Haitian Women’s Collective announced its new Fund for Haitian Women, the very first feminist fund dedicated to supporting women-led organizations working to ensure the safety, dignity, education, and livelihoods of women and girls across Haiti. They invite grantmaking institutions and individuals to support a grassroots Haitian women-created, community-led fund as the country continues to grapple with an ongoing humanitarian crisis. If you are interested in partnering or learning more about their work, contact them through this online form [[link removed]] or visit their website. [[link removed]]

MEMBER EVENTS

Join Elluminate's upcoming Elluminating Conversations Webinar with Lori Cohen (Pact, CEO) on "Turning Awareness into Action: Protecting Children from Sexual Exploitation & Trafficking." [[link removed]] Human trafficking is not a distant or rare crime—it is happening in our communities, evolving rapidly with technology, and demanding informed action. From high-profile cases dominating the headlines to the hidden realities affecting children and families, the need for education, prevention, and survivor-centered solutions has never been more urgent.

February 12, 2026 | 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. EST | Register here [[link removed]]

Join the Women's Foundation of Minnesota's Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota [[link removed]]as they uplift, speak truth to power, and champion causes identified by the governor-appointed YWI Statewide and Mankato Cabinets. Join for YWI’s young women’s rally in the Capitol Rotunda, as they raise their voices, influence policy, and advocate for a better, more equitable future.

March 4, 2026 | 1:00 - 4:30 p.m. CST | Register here [[link removed]]

Join I Be Black Girl for Legislative Day 2026 [[link removed]]—a powerful day of advocacy, learning, and community. This event is designed for everyone—whether you're stepping into advocacy for the first time or have long been using your voice for change. Help build collective power to push for policies that center community needs and create a Nebraska where Black people can live wholly and freely.

March 4, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. CST | Register here [[link removed]]

What We're Reading

National Women in Sports Day Honors 40 Years of Advocacy with DC Action — Just Women's Sports [[link removed]]

Women in tech and finance at higher risk from AI job losses, report say — The Guardian [[link removed]]

What We're Watching

As Black History Month kicks off, NBC News' Zinhle Essamuah looks back the creation of the official observance, which dates back to 1926, and recounts famous moments in Black American history.

Have a story to share?

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