For too long, systemic racism has denied too many Californians the freedom and opportunities that should be available to all. Despite the challenges, nonprofit and philanthropic organizations serving communities of color, and those most impacted by discrimination, have worked tirelessly to reshape our state into one where every person can reach their full potential, regardless of race.

The recent anti-affirmative action ruling by the Supreme Court in Students for Fair Admissions v. President and Fellows of Harvard, and Students for Fair Admissions v. University of North Carolina (SFFA), drastically restricted the consideration of race in college admissions, starting a domino effect that is now reverberating through foundations and organizations on the frontlines of racial justice. Additional legal challenges now target programs promoting diversity in law firms, funding for Black women entrepreneurs, and guaranteed income for underserved communities.

If left unchallenged, this domino effect could undermine our decades-long collective efforts to undo structural racism and discrimination in every sector. Without coordination and immediate action, we will continue to see a growing ”chilling effect” among philanthropy that may discourage and hinder racial justice.

It is more important than ever before for all of us to double down on our fight for racial equity throughout California. Over the past decade, we have seen increased and courageous commitment by philanthropic institutions to the cause of undoing the harm of structural racism and achieving racial justice.

We can’t stop now. Instead of retreating, we need to redouble our commitment to bolster the movement to build a California where everyone belongs and thrives.