Racialized neoliberal philanthropy: Examining arts for social change grantmaking

Saifer explores how neoliberal logics shape racialized arts funding, highlighting how philanthropies promote arts for change while maintaining elite interests. He argues that grantmaking often prioritizes marketable narratives and short-term outcomes, neglecting deep social justice aims. Saifer calls for grantor reflexivity and strategies to unsettle neoliberal frameworks, urging a re-evaluation of how philanthropic practices can genuinely support deep social justice initiatives rather than perpetuating existing power structures. The article underscores the importance of critical self-reflection within philanthropic organizations to ensure their efforts truly align with transformative social change rather than superficial or market-driven outcomes.