The Ford Foundation announced it is providing more than $4.2 million in grants to support 59 documentary film projects that explore the themes of social injustice.
The grants are generated by JustFilms, one of the largest documentary funds in the world and a part of the Creativity and Free Expression (CFE) program. Now in its thirteenth year, JustFilms is one of the few philanthropies making direct grants for independent documentary content. Among the subjects of the films being supported focus are women’s rights (particularly at the intersection of land rights and reproductive justice), environment/natural resources, Latin American history and culture, disability justice and accessibility, the U.S. education system, LGBTQ rights and criminal justice system.
“Our grantees represent a diverse tapestry of narratives, reflecting deeply ingrained societal concerns and cultural legacies shaping our collective consciousness. Each documentary helps to illuminate the multifaceted experiences that define our present era.” said Jon-Sesrie Goff, program officer for JustFilms at the Ford Foundation. “In a world increasingly filled with misinformation and polarization, it’s critical to support artistic works that help to counter this and offer nuanced views of our society.”
Ford Foundation also announced its Spring open call for documentary film production grants will open on Feb. 22 and close on April 1. More information on the next grant cycle is available online.