Podcast Summary: Nonprofit Lowdown Episode #335 - "Celebration + Joy as Resistance" with Yuli Cha
Release Date: April 28, 2025
Hosts and Guest
- Host: Rhea Wong
- Guest: Yuli Cha, Senior Vice President of Research and Policy, Senior Advisor for Embrace Boston
Introduction
In episode #335 of Nonprofit Lowdown, host Rhea Wong engages in an enriching conversation with Yuli Cha from Embrace Boston. They delve into the intersection of equity work, structural racism, and the essential role of joy in movement building within the nonprofit sector. The discussion offers valuable insights for nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and anyone passionate about fostering inclusive communities.
Embrace Boston and the MLK Monument
Overview of Embrace Boston: Embrace Boston, a relatively young nonprofit established officially as a 501(c)(3) organization, gained initial recognition through the installation of a unique MLK monument in Boston Common. This pioneering effort aimed to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy beyond traditional memorials.
Significance of the MLK Monument: Yuli Cha explains that the monument is more than a commemorative statue; it represents ongoing action against structural racism. Designed by artist Hank Willis Thomas in partnership with Mass Design, the monument depicts Dr. King receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, with his partner Coretta Scott holding him up. This imagery emphasizes action, community, and the continuous struggle for democracy.
"Embrace Boston is committed to dismantling structural racism in our country using the tools of arts and culture, research, and policy." [06:21]
Transition from Capital Campaign to Full-Fledged Nonprofit: Originally raised through a capital campaign, Embrace Boston has since expanded its mission to address broader issues of equity, democracy, and inclusion. The monument served as a catalyst for deeper organizational commitment and strategic mission development.
Fundraising and Storytelling in Nonprofits
Yuli's Experience with Fundraising: Yuli reflects on her transition into professional fundraising, highlighting the importance of storytelling. She praises Rhea’s guidance in transforming fundraising from an organic process to a strategic, narrative-driven effort.
"Seeing you with us and workshopping the word choice, the tone, the spirit, and telling it back to us, that was invaluable." [05:22]
Importance of Storytelling: Effective storytelling is pivotal in connecting with donors and stakeholders. Yuli recounts an exercise where Rhea helped craft a compelling narrative tailored to potential donors, underscoring the significance of personalized and strategic communication.
Navigating Political Challenges and Commitment to Mission
Commitment Amidst Adversity: Yuli discusses how Embrace Boston navigates the current political landscape, marked by challenges such as HR 9495 and assaults on civil rights. The organization remains steadfast in its mission, refusing to succumb to "anticipatory obedience" or complacency.
"The worst thing we can do is the anticipatory obedience and giving up and buying into the falsehood that somehow it's too late or that what we might do won't make a difference." [11:11]
Historical Lessons and Current Strategies: Drawing parallels with historical struggles, Yuli emphasizes the importance of collective action and maintaining belief in pluralistic democracy. Embrace Boston leverages historical lessons to inform its strategies in combating structural racism.
Equity, Representation, and the Power of Space
Symbolism of Monuments and Public Spaces: Yuli elaborates on how public monuments and spaces convey societal values and foster a sense of belonging. The MLK monument serves as a counter-narrative to traditional, often white supremacist symbols, promoting inclusivity and representation.
"The power of space, it is real, it can be measured. And therefore there is a close tie to belonging." [16:32]
Impact of Public Events: Embrace Boston's Latino Arts Music Festival in Boston Common exemplifies how intentional design of public events can empower historically marginalized communities and reshape societal norms. The festival not only celebrates Latino culture but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among attendees.
"This starts to bring everyone along on the path and so the physical taking up of space and time and also the physical monuments are all part of how we shape and reshape our norms that then do lead to changes in behavior and attitude." [24:49]
Engaging Young People in Democracy and Civic Participation
Challenges Facing Youth: Rhea and Yuli discuss the disenfranchisement of young people, particularly young men, and the importance of creating spaces where they feel valued and included. The conversation highlights the need for nonprofits to engage youth authentically through digital and grassroots strategies.
"We need to really rewrite some of the old playbooks on what are those headlining mantras or causes because I don't think we are listening or hearing what's really affecting younger folks." [26:21]
Strategies for Engagement: Yuli suggests leveraging social media, hosting inclusive events, and providing meaningful opportunities such as internships to foster youth participation in democracy. Embrace Boston aims to build trust and support among younger demographics by aligning with their interests and communication styles.
Joy as Resistance in Movement Building
Role of Joy in Activism: The conversation shifts to the essential role of joy in sustaining activism. Yuli posits that joy acts as a form of resistance, providing necessary emotional sustenance and fostering resilience within movement-building efforts.
"We have to do both. We have to fight every battle that we can with all the tools as well as live." [35:19]
Creating Joyful Spaces: Embrace Boston intentionally designs spaces and events that celebrate joy alongside activism. These environments offer respite and rejuvenation, enabling activists to maintain their commitment and passion.
Intersection of Joy and Resistance: Yuli emphasizes that joy and resistance are intertwined, advocating for spaces that allow communities to celebrate their culture and achievements while continuously striving for justice and equity.
"Knowing that it's hard to create spaces for yourself... we feel incredible responsibility to intentionally design spaces that really celebrate joy as resistance with a capital R." [35:19]
Conclusion
The episode concludes with a powerful affirmation of the importance of joy in sustaining long-term activism and movement building. Yuli Cha and Rhea Wong leave listeners with actionable insights on fostering inclusive, joyful spaces that resist structural inequities and celebrate diverse communities.
"The business of joy. There's definitely... it's a key part. I think it's the cornerstone of our strategy because things will probably get worse before they get better and we've got to continue to feed ourselves." [35:19]
Key Takeaways:
- Strategic Storytelling: Crafting personalized narratives is crucial for effective fundraising and donor engagement.
- Commitment in Adversity: Organizations must remain steadfast in their missions despite political and societal challenges.
- Power of Representation: Public spaces and monuments significantly influence societal values and foster a sense of belonging.
- Youth Engagement: Authentic and strategic engagement with young people is vital for the future of democracy and social justice movements.
- Joy as a Sustaining Force: Incorporating joy into activism is essential for maintaining resilience and fostering a positive movement environment.
Notable Quotes:
- "We need to really rewrite some of the old playbooks on what are those headlining mantras or causes because I don't think we are listening or hearing what's really affecting younger folks." - Yuli Cha [26:21]
- "The power of space, it is real, it can be measured. And therefore there is a close tie to belonging." - Yuli Cha [16:32]
- "Joy is resistance. We have to do both. We have to fight every battle that we can with all the tools as well as live." - Yuli Cha [35:19]
Additional Resources:
- Embrace Boston: Learn more about their initiatives and upcoming events by visiting their website.
- Nonprofit Lowdown Newsletter: Subscribe for weekly updates on nonprofit strategies, fundraising tips, and more at riawong.com.