Ms. x Groundswell

As Reproductive Rights Collapse, Funders Are Disappearing. Why?

Grassroots organizations are on the frontlines of defending human rights at this moment. Yet, it’s alarming that major funders are leaving the field right when groups working to defend bodily autonomy and democracy need them most. 

In the 2024 presidential election, we saw the consequences of what happens when donors abandon grassroots organizations—where a billion dollars were raised for the Harris campaign at the expense of movement organizations in key battleground states. In a presidential election lost to low voter turnout, the decision to underfund grassroots groups—those best equipped to knock on doors and mobilize voters—proved dangerously short-sighted.

(This essay is part of a collection presented by Ms. and the Groundswell Fund.)

Democracy, Divestment and the Power to Choose Liberation: On Cultivating ‘the Menopausal Multiverse’

It’s time we reimagine menopause as an expansive, intersectional journey through radical divestment and collective empowerment for all marginalized voices.

Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that nobody’s menopause experience is overlooked or left behind, and that requires us to break from the mainstream “landscape” and forge an empowering community of our own.

(This essay is part of a collection presented by Ms. and the Groundswell Fund.)

Knowing Our Neighbors: A Crucial First Step to Organizing in Times of Despair

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Whether it’s lending or borrowing a cup of sugar, or providing others bare necessities when the power goes out on your block for two weeks, it is essential that we break our prolonged isolation and build relationships across differences. 

Building face-to-face relationships across differences is the first act of resistance—and the foundation for community defense, disaster response and democratic revival in the South.

(This essay is part of a collection presented by Ms. and the Groundswell Fund.)

In Montana, Native Women Are Reshaping Politics and Reclaiming Civic Space

Amid political uncertainty, Native American women in Montana are leading social justice movements and shaping public policy. Historically marginalized in policymaking, Native voices are now gaining equitable representation at the state level, driving impactful change. In 2024, Montana had twelve Democratic Native legislators, including five women: Sen. Susan Webber, Rep. Jade Sooktis, Rep. Shelly Fyant, Sen. Jacinda Morigeau, and Rep. Thedis Crowe. These leaders advocate and take action, transforming Montana’s policy landscape and inspiring future generations.

(This essay is part of a collection presented by Ms. and the Groundswell Fund.)

Liberation, Family Style: Latina Voters Advance the Fight for our Freedoms

Solidarity has always been at the heart of Latina and Chicana liberation movements. Its thread binds the spirit of our community’s diversity, uniting us in pursuit of a democracy where all individuals and their families can lead safe, healthy, self-determined lives.

As men of color find their corner in the fight for abortion, and recent survey findings show that most Latinos support abortion access, families can continue fostering understanding around the importance of reproductive freedom. These conversations help dismantle stigma, encourage empathy, and promote a culture of respect for one’s own choices.

The Majority of People Are Caregivers. How Do We Invest in a Care Economy?

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Over 90 percent of Americans view themselves as caregivers—whether child, parent or neighbor. We need public investment in the care economy to build a culture rooted in rest, mental health, and caring for a neighbor without risking your income.

People are hurting in so many ways that I no longer expect kindness or joy. The U.S. demonstrates what we care about through the policies it enacts and retracts, and we don’t seem to have the capacity to invest in care. 

(This essay is being re-spotlighted, part of an ongoing essay collection presented by Ms. and Groundswell Fund featuring the voices of grassroots organizers building power at the intersections of gender and racial justice. As national attention once again turns to the urgent need for investments in childcare, paid leave, and the broader care economy, the writers reminds us that building a truly gender-just democracy starts with valuing care work—and the people who do it.)