Philanthropist Melinda French Gates announced a significant donation of $1 billion over the next two years to support women and families, with a focus on reproductive rights and other critical issues. French Gates, who co-founded the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation nearly 25 years ago, is stepping away from the foundation to advocate for women and girls more directly.
Supporting Reproductive Rights
In a New York Times op-ed, French Gates expressed her commitment to advocating for reproductive rights in the United States. She highlighted the need to support organizations that protect women’s rights, particularly in light of recent legislative challenges. French Gates stated, “In the post-Dobbs era, I now feel compelled to support reproductive rights here at home. For too long, a lack of money has forced organizations fighting for women’s rights into a defensive posture while the enemies of progress play offense. I want to help even the match.”
Addressing Critical Issues
French Gates emphasized the urgency of addressing disparities in maternal mortality rates and the lack of national paid family leave in the United States. She noted the alarming rise in mental health issues among teenage girls and stressed the need for comprehensive support systems. “In the United States, maternal mortality rates continue to be unconscionable, with Black and Native American mothers at highest risk. Women in 14 states have lost the right to terminate a pregnancy under almost any circumstances,” she wrote.
Addressing Philanthropic Disparities
French Gates also highlighted the disparities in philanthropic support for women and girls’ organizations. Despite the pressing need, only about 2% of charitable giving in the United States is directed towards organizations focused on women and girls, with even less going to organizations specifically for women of color. “Despite the pressing need, only about 2 percent of charitable giving in the United States goes to organizations focused on women and girls, and only about half a percentage point goes to organizations focused on women of color specifically,” she stated.
A Vision for the Future
The $1 billion investment includes $200 million in grants aimed at strengthening organizations that advocate for women’s rights and reproductive rights. Additionally, $250 million will be awarded later this fall to organizations working to improve women’s mental and physical health globally.
“As a young woman, I could never have imagined that one day I would be part of an effort like this,” French Gates reflected. “Because I have been given this extraordinary opportunity, I am determined to do everything I can to seize it and to set an agenda that helps other women and girls set theirs, too.” French Gates’ donation aims to empower women and families, tackle critical issues in women’s health and rights, and address the disparities in philanthropic support for women’s causes. Her commitment underscores the importance of supporting women’s organizations and advocating for policies that protect women’s rights globally.