Decolonizing Wealth: A Conversation with Edgar Villanueva at the Chicago History Museum

What if we could use wealth to heal rather than cause harm? What if money was spent trying out concepts that challenge or shatter the structures and systems that have created inequity and disparity? This is the core argument explored by author and nationally-recognized philanthropy expert Edgar Villanueva in his new book "Decolonizing Wealth: Indigenous Wisdom to Heal Divides and Restore Balance." Using his own personal experiences as a Native American grant-maker and foundation executive (along with field data and dozens of funder interviews) Villanueva reveals the racial and colonialist dynamics at play in philanthropy and finance, including banks, investment funds, and aid organizations. This special 'Decolonizing Wealth' book event featured an in-depth conversation between Villanueva and representatives from Raise the Floor and Shriver Center about the book and how institutions that control access to money can advance racial equity and better serve the needs of communities of color. The event also highlighted stories about both of the organizations’ journey to lead with racial equity. Speakers include: Panelist: Edgar Villanueva Panelist: Sophia Zaman, Raise the Floor Panelist: Gavin Kearney, Shriver Center Moderator:Tracie Hall, Joyce Foundation Emcee: Mary Morten, Morten Group, LLC The event begins with a special performance by the American Indian Center of Chicago. This event is hosted by Arabella Advisors, Crossroads Fund, Erikson Institute, The Lloyd A. Fry Foundation, Iris Krieg & Associates, Forefront, Goodman Theatre, Morten Group, LLC, Polk Bros. Foundation, TRHT Greater Chicago, Woods Fund Chicago, Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy Chicago, Chicago Latinos in Philanthropy, and Chicago African Americans in Philanthropy.