How woke is GoFundMe?

Introduction

GoFundMe, the leading online crowdfunding platform, has made a name for itself by helping people raise money for all sorts of causes. It supports campaigns for medical bills, community projects, and social justice movements. GoFundMe claims to be all about “helping people help each other.” But how woke is GoFundMe? Let’s take a closer look at their financial contributions, DEI policies, support for LGBTQ+ initiatives, and more to see where they stand.

Financial Contributions to Progressive Causes

GoFundMe has certainly shown its commitment when it comes to supporting progressive causes. For instance, they helped raise $24.2 million for the Time’s Up Legal Defense Fund during the #MeToo movement and $15.1 million for the March for Our Lives campaign advocating for gun control. The platform is also a popular choice for fundraisers related to climate change, immigration, and racial justice. These examples show that GoFundMe plays a significant role in backing social justice initiatives​​.

Prioritization of DEI Policies

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are big deals at GoFundMe. They’ve made it clear that these principles are essential to their company culture. They have employee resource groups to support diversity and even created a position for a DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) Director. 

GoFundMe also supports numerous fundraisers that promote social justice and diversity. In fact, it has a dedicated section on its website for justice and equality causes, reflecting their commitment to these values​​. “Donate now and support people and organizations focused on systemic reform and racial justice. Now is the time to stand together for peace, justice, and a brighter future. Inaction isn’t an option.,” their Justice and Equality page reads.

Mandatory Training Sessions

GoFundMe does not appear to have mandatory training sessions specifically focused on social activism. However, the principles of social activism are deeply embedded in their processes and programs. The company’s supportive time-off policies, including volunteer days, encourage employee engagement in social causes. The Gives Back Program allows employees to nominate a fundraiser weekly for a company donation, further encouraging involvement in social activism.

Support for LGBTQ+ Initiatives

GoFundMe is a major supporter of LGBTQ+ causes. They have a special section for verified LGBTQ+ fundraisers, where they encourage support “during Pride and beyond.” GoFundMe also backed various grassroots fundraising efforts providing direct relief to LGBTQ+ individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing issues like loss of employment and income. 

Additionally, GoFundMe supports LGBTQ+ artists by creating opportunities for their stories in art, media, and entertainment, and helps save LGBTQ+ venues at risk of closing due to financial strain​​. These efforts demonstrate GoFundMe’s strong support for the LGBTQ+ community, providing both financial assistance and advocacy​​.

Marketing and Branding

GoFundMe’s marketing and branding are all about social activism. They position themselves as “the giving layer of the internet.” GoFundMe often highlights successful social activism campaigns and partners with organizations like Classy to better connect supporters with causes they care about. “With fundraising for all, we are creating the giving layer of the internet: a space where individuals, teams, organizations, and nonprofits can champion causes that matter and raise money to make a lasting difference,” GoFundMe states.

Conclusion

GoFundMe’s commitment to progressive causes, DEI policies, and support for marginalized communities positions it as a key player in social activism and undoubtedly, a woke brand. Significant financial contributions to movements like #MeToo and March for Our Lives, along with strong support for LGBTQ+ initiatives, underscore their role in promoting social justice, and in the criticism of traditional values. However, the platform faces criticism for perceived political bias, particularly in handling fundraisers for conservative causes.