At Borealis Philanthropy, we aren’t just envisioning a world where Black trans femmes thrive; we’re actively co-creating it. It is with immense pride and gratitude that we announce the launch of the Flower Crown Project—a labor of love, and justice from Borealis Philanthropy’s Fund for Trans Generations (FTG).
Meet The Flower Crown Project Cohort
Named in honor of Marsha P. Johnson—a queer and trans liberation activist, whose iconic flower crowns symbolize unapologetic beauty and strength—The Flower Crown Project transcends traditional leadership development initiatives. Created in alignment with Borealis’ commitment to supporting leaders shifting our social, economic, and cultural systems toward greater equity and justice, the project nurtures the wisdom and leadership of Black trans femmes; and curates a sacred and healing space for these leaders to exist in fellowship; and bolsters and aligns Black trans femme strategies for our collective liberation.
Anchored in the pillars of Compassionate Care (for self and others), Cultivation of Self, Cultural Perpetuity, and Unbridled Joy, the Flower Crown Project is structured to kindle transformation and impact, beginning with its cohort. Even in its earliest stage, the project has empowered The Tenacious Ten—its members are brilliant activists, agitators, and visionaries organizing at the intersections of housing accessibility, reproductive justice, legal advocacy, and Black mental health and wellness—to grow as leaders, and tend to their lives in necessary, fundamental ways.
Now more than ever, in the wake of intensified attacks against trans lives following the 2024 election, we know that funding grassroots organizers in these expansive, comprehensive ways requires bold and intentional partnership. Despite the growing visibility of trans folks and the movements for justice that they lead, only 4.6 cents of every $100 awarded by U.S. foundations specifically supports trans communities. This inequity directly impacts the ability of trans leaders—especially Black trans femmes—from driving policy change, developing life-saving resources, and building networks of care that sustain their transformative work.
Since its inception in 2016, the FTG is proud to have moved over $12 million dollars to trans-led efforts to build safe, thriving, and resilient communities. To join the FTG and its national network of donors for justice, co-creating beautiful new possibilities for the future, please connect with us at FTG@borealisphilanthropy.org.