Arcus Foundation

Social Justice Strategy

The Foundation’s social justice strategy is driven by its mission to enable individuals and families of every sexual orientation and gender identity, race, and ethnicity to live their lives with dignity and respect, and express their love and sense of self wherever they are in the world. 

In achieving this mission, each of the three principal program areas outlined below is underpinned by the belief that changes in culture and in laws and policies are mutually reinforcing and must be pursued together to advance LGBT freedoms and protections.

Learn More: How to apply for Arcus funding. 

International Human Rights

Arcus focuses on support to the development of a global movement around sexual orientation and gender identity that is able to drive national reforms and integrate these issues into international human rights mechanisms.

We work closely with organizations in or close to countries where these rights and protections are most urgent and we continue to engage with the United Nations as one of the major forums that convenes nations to debate human rights issues and set international standards.

United States

Arcus focuses on two intersecting groups that will have a critical impact on the future of LGBT freedoms and protections in the coming decades: youth and people of color. By growing the ability of youth and communities of color to be effective advocates for LGBT equality – particularly in support of LGBT youth of color  – we aim to increase awareness of emotional and physical violence, strengthen dialog and cultural acceptance, and expand social and economic protections.

Global Religion

Arcus focuses on those within major faiths worldwide who hold the political and moral authority to challenge policies that bar LGBT people from assuming equal rights.

We aim to mobilize those religious leaders who support LGBT freedoms and protections to use their power in shaping our cultures by forming partnerships between international human rights agencies, religious bodies and U.S.-based grassroots organizations that are facing similar battles, including around religious exemptions.

Special Opportunities

From time to time, the Arcus Foundation may support organizations and projects that do not fall within the guidelines of the Arcus LGBT Program. Such opportunities are limited and occur only at the initiation of the Foundation.