On the latest episode of GBH's Basic Black, host Callie Crossley is joined by two of the founding members of the New Commonwealth Racial Equity and Social Justice Fund, as well as two recipients. The fund, sparked by the killing of George Floyd, was created by executives of color to help stem racism, and aid nonprofits focused on communities of color. The conversation will also discuss Black philanthropy. Guests include Marquis Victor, Founding Executive Director of Elevated Thought; Romeo Romero Sigle, Assistant Director of Pa’lante Restorative Justice; Quincy Miller, Vice Chair and President of Eastern Bank; and Pam Everhart, SVP of Regional Public Affairs and Community Relations at Fidelity Investments.

In some previews from this episode show, Everhart recalls one of the most exciting moments of her career, when she was able to announce support for nonprofits to strengthen communities of color.

“This is one of the most exciting things I think I have ever done," she says about the grants from the New Commonwealth Racial Justice and Social Equity Fund. "I remember being on the Zoom call with the 20 grantees to present them the $50,000. It was wonderful to see the expressions on their faces.”

Victor, a grant recipient, discusses the “beautiful” moment he found out he would receive support, and how important the funds will be to support his nonprofit Elevated Thought in Lawrence, which develops spaces for BIPOC youth and communities to engage and understand art's liberating power. He says the application process bypassed the “capitalistic view” that often comes with philanthropy.

“This first thing that crossed my mind – is this a scam?” he says. “It doesn’t happen too often… It was a totally unique experience in the funding process.”

Miller of Eastern Bank says he’s been inspired by Black leaders of the past who made a difference, and says it’s his generation’s turn to hold corporations and the community accountable and take advantage of the momentum of today’s civil rights movement.

“If we’re sitting here 20 years, 10 years from now having the same conversations, then we would have failed,” he says.

Watch the latest Basic Black on Facebook.