Democracy and Rule of Law

Upholding the rule of law, the premise that we all play by the same rules and get equal opportunity in return, is a shared responsibility. We support the people, ensuring everyone can access and shape the laws governing their lives.

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Featured Stories

A wedding invitation card for "Patrice & Gary" features a photo of their ceremony in a garden gazebo. Gary, who uses a wheelchair, and Patrice, in a peach gown, hold hands, illustrating the event's theme of illuminating disability rights and inclusive celebrations.
Stories

The Cost of “I Do” in the Disability Community

Patrice Jetter and Garry Wickham cannot afford to marry due to the disability marriage penalty, a discriminatory benefits structure that would cause them to lose SSI and Medicaid. Their story is told in the documentary Patrice: The Movie, showcasing their advocacy for marriage equality and higher SSI asset limits for…

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Stories

A Living Legacy of Social Justice at a Global Scale

Marking 90 years, the Ford Foundation has evolved from a local trust into a global catalyst for justice. By investing in institutions, individuals, and ideas, Ford empowers local leaders to solve systemic challenges and build a more dignified, equitable world.

Collage image of conductor of Detroit Symphony Orchestra alongside a man in a wheelchair working in welding shop alongside an image of a man on the set of Sesame Street.
Stories

Made in the Heartland: 90 Years of Partnership and Progress

Born in Detroit, Ford Foundation remains dedicated to the American Heartland. Through stewardship, civic architecture, and democratic wealth-building, Ford empowers local leaders to drive regional growth. By strengthening institutions and expanding ownership, the Foundation ensures a resilient, inclusive future.

Two women, Maribel Pérez Wadsworth (left) and Heather Gerken (right), engage in a fireside chat at the Knight Media Forum 2026. Seated in grey armchairs against a vibrant blue backdrop with the "KF" logo, they discuss the future of journalism and media leadership.
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ICYMI: Ford Foundation’s Heather Gerken and Knight Foundation’s Maribel Pérez Wadsworth Discuss Philanthropy’s Role In Safeguarding Democracy at Knight Media Forum 2026

At a moment when the First Amendment is under threat, Knight Foundation President and CEO Maribel Pérez Wadsworth sat down with Heather Gerken, president of the Ford Foundation, for a timely conversation on the state of democracy, civic engagement and the role of philanthropy in this critical moment.

A stylized, blue-tinted image of the U.S. Supreme Court building set against dramatic black and white halftone clouds. The graphic illustrates the judicial branch, constitutional law, and legal rulings, representing the Ford Foundation's analysis of critical court decisions impacting democracy.

Why the Ford Foundation Has Committed $60M in New Funding to Protect Elections

 Learn how our new grantmaking defends the rule of law, fortifies voting rights, and boosts civic participation.

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Big Ideas

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People-Powered Solutions: Connecting Local Communities and Global Challenges

Ford Foundation is building a people-centered global order. We support local leaders creating a more just and equitable world. Their solutions, powered by Global South voices, break down silos to create lasting global change.

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Make It Count

“Make It Count” features notable grantee leaders in Ford’s network sharing their numbers to know for ending inequality.

 Ford Foundation at 90

Across nine decades, the Ford Foundation has invested in innovative ideas, visionary individuals, and frontline institutions advancing human dignity around the world.

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