Black Lives Matter Grassroots is unaffiliated with the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation which is reportedly under investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice.
By Black Lives Matter Grassroots —
Black Lives Matter Grassroots is unaffiliated with the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation which is reportedly under investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. In fact, Black Lives Matter Grassroots filed a lawsuit against the BLM Global Network Foundation (GNF) in 2022. Our claim, then and now, is that the resources, platforms, and “Black Lives Matter” name were built by and intended for the work of Black Lives Matter Grassroots, our chapters, and frontline organizers, not the consultants who control the BLM Global Network Foundation. Sadly, we were blocked from receiving our day in court and forced to pay GNF’s legal fees. We did not have the resources to pursue an appeal and, instead, chose to focus our efforts on doing the necessary work to make Black lives matter.
While the federal investigation into GNF might appear to be further validation of our claims, as an abolitionist organization Black Lives Matter Grassroots takes no delight in possible criminal repercussions, even for those that we deem to be frauds and thieves. We are unclear on what the findings might mean in terms of assets. We maintain that all resources under GNF’s control should be immediately provided to Black Lives Matter Grassroots.
We are also aware that the Trump regime is actively targeting and investigating Black-led organizations and organizers who dare challenge racism and oppression. Black Lives Matter Grassroots has not been directly named in the criminal investigation or recent Presidential Memorandum (NSPM-7); that does not mean that we are safe from the witchhunt. We have done all that we can to operate with integrity and move righteous work that is so urgently needed. We will continue to fight for the liberation of our people and for justice in the world – especially in these perilous times. We are honored to struggle in the names of those who have been stolen by police and white-supremacist violence alongside our “Justice Families,” and grateful that thousands of Black Lives Matter Grassroots organizers around the world have committed their lives to fighting for Black freedom. We stand in solidarity with all who are doing good work for Black liberation and building a free and just world.
