By Rita Thapa
In my last blog I argued that philanthropy has no direct relation with wealth.
Now, I want to recognize and emphasize how wealth has, can be, and needs to be used to leverage for societal transformation – for social justice, equity, and for peace. All over the world, the discerning good among the endowed have used their wealth for the well being of the larger good depending on their then felt/seen needs grounded in their own contexts.
If it was about building trails, rest places, schools and temples in Nepal, it was about investing in large foundations to enable and sustain many aspects of the good for humanity in our world. Nepal, transitioning fast for decades has had little institutionalizing of its practice of philanthropy other than those culturally/religiously grounded, whereas in Europe and America the practice is well institutionalized. Whatever leadership changes may occur, or difficulties emerge, those that are institutionalized can carry on over decades, but others not thus grounded do good, get lost, and emerge at some point or the other in may be another form. This they do – because the practice of philanthropy cannot die as long as the good lives within the human race. So although on the one hand institutionalization can further and strengthen the practice of philanthropy, on the other hand, there needs to be a word of caution.
In my opinion, institutionalization of values, systems, goals, and practices can and needs to be grounded. But this needs to happen without marring “philanthropy” itself. Too often I see that we reduce the practice of philanthropy to jobs, contracts, and projects. Our due diligence can estrange values from the act. Unintended hierarchy creeps in, respect is lost, and trust evaporates. There is a contest for money but with corroding understanding of the inextricable values of “philanthropy”.
This is where today we need to glean out how wealth can continue to serve and promote philanthropy. Wealth as a means for promoting and enhancing philanthropy! How can we be mindful today, so that our institutionalized philanthropies are not reduced to just a job or project! How can we continue to use wealth in the practice of philanthropy – and that this practice sows a growing seed of philanthropy in each one of us! Not forgetting that everything political is also personal.
Rita is the founder of Nagarik Aawaz, an initiative for conflict transformation and peace building in Nepal, where she previously founded and led Tewa – Nepal Women’s Fund.