America is a land of diverse races and faiths, but not all communities have experienced equal protection or justice as guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. In particular, Muslim, Arab and South Asian communities frequently experience acts of anti-Muslim bigotry and xenophobia as well as structural and societal barriers designed to sideline these growing and influential communities. Nevertheless, Muslim, Arab and South Asian communities are rising together locally and nationally to build community power and resilience, to diversify the media coverage of Muslim, Arab and South Asian communities, and to advocate for the rights of their communities and all those impacted by racism and xenophobia.
As the only national donor collaborative dedicated to supporting Muslim, Arab, and South Asian communities, the RISE Together Fund bolsters the critical work of Muslim, Arab, and South Asian individuals, organizations and communities to defend and uphold the Rights of their communities, leading to Inclusion in a just, multi-racial democracy. Our name reflects our understanding that we must build relationships and Solidarity within the Muslim, Arab and South Asian field and with allies across social and racial justice movements in order to realize Equity and justice in America. We will achieve Rights, Inclusion, Solidarity, and Equity (RISE) Together. As we do this, our role goes beyond traditional grantmaking. We intentionally direct our grants toward building long-term, sustainable movements, and then also work alongside our grantees and others in the Muslim, Arab and South Asian field to help them grow, connect, and develop a collective voice.