Critical race theory and nonprofits: Rethinking leadership and governance

Nonprofit organizations, through their missions, are typically in existence to improve the lives of the communities they serve. However, the motivation to become more like for-profit businesses has reinforced a divisiveness that renders nonprofits unresponsive to the social, economic, and political realities of community members. Minimizing the lived experience, the lack of shared decision-making authority, and the hoarding of resources ultimately makes nonprofit organizations anchor institutions that are only performatively interested in leveling the playing field for impacted communities. This chapter uses critical race theory to reimagine the ways nonprofit organizations can engage in ethical and responsive ways to advance organizational missions and support the communities they serve.