Drawing on the principles of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all; respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are all a part; justice, equity, and compassion in human relations; and the right of conscience as we search for truth and meaning, Liz Moore will offer reflections on financial giving. Why are philanthropy, giving, and sharing needed? Who gives? Who receives? Who benefits and who is hurt by taboos and cultural beliefs about money? What can we do when we give, for others, for society, and for ourselves? We assert our values into the world through our actions, including our decisions about when and how to give. All contributions can be meaningful at every level. Giving can mean shifting white wealth and power to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities; supporting lifeline services; fueling movement building; helping pay medical bills because of the torn safety net; or take so many other forms. With facts and data, analysis, humor, and reflections, Liz will share her experience and perspective as a social justice organizer and fundraiser, a Blue Bird selling Camp Fire candy, a girl growing up in a union dues-paying household, and a donor who now loves to give, and will share how she has developed her own philosophy on giving. 

Liz (she/her) began her activism in PJALS’ youth group as a Deer Park high school student after looking up “peace” in the phone book. She worked as an organizer and educator in unions and community groups on issues including marriage equality, racial justice, and worker rights before returning to the organization that helped shape and define her work as a young activist. She is passionate about grassroots leadership development and supporting youth as leaders. In all that she does, Liz holds fast to the belief that everyday people have the power to build a just and nonviolent world. Liz has acted as PJALS director since 2009.