Giving Done Right: Julián Castro on Supporting a Diverse Latino Community after Trump’s Win
Podcast Information:
- Title: Giving Done Right
- Host/Author: The Center for Effective Philanthropy
- Episode: Julián Castro on Supporting a Diverse Latino Community after Trump’s Win
- Release Date: December 19, 2024
Introduction
In this episode of Giving Done Right, hosts Phil Buchanan and Grace Nicolette engage in a profound conversation with Julián Castro, the former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President Obama and former Mayor of San Antonio, Texas. Currently serving as the CEO of the Latino Community Foundation (LCF), Castro brings invaluable insights into the dynamics of Latino philanthropy, political engagement, and the challenges faced by the community in the aftermath of the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election.
Julián Castro’s Background and Motivation for Joining LCF
[01:06 - 03:40]
Castro delves into his transition from public service to philanthropy, highlighting his lifelong commitment to impacting others positively. Reflecting on his career, he states:
"[...] what's been so appealing about the Latino Community foundation is that I see that in the same vein. [...] how can you make an impact in the lives of others? And to me, this is one excellent way to do that."
— Julián Castro [03:40]
He contrasts his roles in public service with his current position in philanthropy, emphasizing the shift from direct policy-making to investing in nonprofit organizations and fostering collective impact.
Latino Community and Political Shifts Post-2024 Election
[05:16 - 14:23]
The discussion pivots to the evolving political landscape of the Latino community, especially after the 2024 election where shifts in voting patterns were notable. Castro articulates the critical role of LCF in empowering Latinos to influence their socio-economic and political futures:
"We feel that's vital to the future prosperity of the United States because according to the census, already just over a quarter of the children, quarter of the people under the age of 18 in our country are young Latinas or young Latinos."
— Julián Castro [07:53]
He underscores the demographic significance of the Latino population and the necessity of their empowerment for the nation's overall prosperity. Castro also touches upon the non-monolithic nature of the Latino community and the importance of voter enthusiasm and participation.
Role and Work of the Latino Community Foundation
[14:53 - 28:13]
Castro provides an in-depth overview of LCF's operations, highlighting its role as an intermediary between donors and grassroots organizations. He explains the foundation’s multifaceted approach to fostering Latino empowerment through:
-
Civic Engagement: Investing in organizations that mobilize voters and advocate for community needs.
"We help build power through investing in civic engagement."
— Julián Castro [14:53] -
Economic Power Building: Supporting entrepreneurship and economic initiatives to enhance community quality of life.
"We engage in economic power building by investing in entrepreneurship initiatives..."
— Julián Castro [14:53] -
Giving Circles: Administering a network of Latino philanthropists to pool resources and amplify impact.
"We have 17 different giving circles right now in the state of California, and we're looking to expand that."
— Julián Castro [14:53] -
Advocacy: Leveraging the foundation’s voice to influence policy on critical issues affecting Latinos.
"We do our work through advocacy... on issues like housing, on immigration..."
— Julián Castro [14:53]
Castro emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with grantees, ensuring that investments are strategic and impactful.
Challenges Facing Latino and Nonprofit Communities
[28:13 - 37:54]
The conversation shifts to the formidable challenges confronting Latino communities and the broader nonprofit sector, particularly under the new administration. Castro expresses deep concerns about potential threats to nonprofit organizations:
"I'm very concerned about that because of legislation that just got passed in the House of Representatives. [...] could label nonprofits as terrorists."
— Julián Castro [35:13]
He highlights fears of legislative measures being weaponized against organizations based on political disagreements, stressing the importance of safeguarding the nonprofit sector's freedom to operate. Additionally, Castro discusses internal community anxieties, such as fears of mass deportations and the socio-economic hurdles faced by Latinos.
Advice for Donors Supporting Latino Communities
[37:54 - 43:49]
Castro offers strategic guidance for donors looking to support Latino communities effectively:
-
Research and Identify Impactful Organizations:
"Do research on organizations that are doing great work from advocacy to protecting immigrant communities."
— Julián Castro [26:03] -
Support Infrastructure and Readiness: Emphasizing the need for preparedness against potential policy shifts, Castro advises donors to back organizations that are proactive in their strategies.
"Organizations are not sitting on their hands... they have been doing scenario planning."
— Julián Castro [26:03] -
Engage Beyond Financial Contributions: Encouraging donors to provide not just financial support but also their voices and strategic input to strengthen community resilience.
"Your voice and your thinking and strategizing."
— Julián Castro [37:54]
Phil Buchanan reinforces this by suggesting support for organizations like the Council on Foundations and the National Council of Nonprofits, which protect the sector's integrity and freedom.
Resilience and Leadership
[43:49 - 47:20]
In a reflective segment, Castro shares his personal sources of strength and optimism. Drawing from his family's immigrant background and his professional journey, he conveys a message of resilience and hope:
"I'm very grateful because I feel like I've lived and I've been a part of the story of progress in our country... we're going to get through this moment."
— Julián Castro [45:02]
He emphasizes the collective resolve needed to navigate challenging times and the importance of maintaining commitment to core values to foster continued societal progress.
Conclusion
The episode concludes with heartfelt appreciation for Castro’s contributions and reaffirmation of the podcast’s mission to guide effective philanthropic endeavors. Listeners are encouraged to explore resources on the Center for Effective Philanthropy's websites and to engage with the Latino Community Foundation to support and empower Latino communities effectively.
Notable Quotes:
-
"How can you make an impact in the lives of others? And to me, this is one excellent way to do that."
— Julián Castro [03:40] -
"We feel that's vital to the future prosperity of the United States because according to the census, already just over a quarter of the children, quarter of the people under the age of 18 in our country are young Latinas or young Latinos."
— Julián Castro [07:53] -
"We help build power through investing in civic engagement."
— Julián Castro [14:53] -
"I'm very concerned about that because of legislation that just got passed in the House of Representatives. [...] could label nonprofits as terrorists."
— Julián Castro [35:13] -
"You have to give according to your values."
— Julián Castro [42:18] -
"I'm very grateful because I feel like I've lived and I've been a part of the story of progress in our country... we're going to get through this moment."
— Julián Castro [45:02]
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from Julián Castro’s appearance on Giving Done Right, providing listeners and non-listeners alike with a clear understanding of the vital role philanthropy plays in empowering the Latino community amidst evolving political landscapes.