FREEDOM FIGHTER’S FUND
“Oluwatoyin was a freedom fighter. We will continue to fight in honor of her legacy. She did not ask to be a martyr for justice. May her death shake up systems on behalf of Black girls everywhere who exist at the intersection of racial injustice and gender based violence. ”
Oluwatoyin ‘Toyin’ Salau was a 19 year old activist from Tallahassee, Florida. Toyin, described as “powerful and strong with a happy soul” was a fierce advocate for the full protection of Black lives. After releasing a series of tweets describing sexual assault, her body was found in Tallahassee June 15th 2020. This fund was created to honor her legacy by protecting other Black girls like Toyin.
ABOUT THE FUND.
The Freedom Fighters Fund is designed to provide monetary relief for Black girl activist, like Toyin, who are on the frontlines. This fund allows Black girls to request grants up to $750 for overnight housing, rent relief, food or other life-sustaining supports. Toyin was fighting for the protection of everyone, but where could Toyin find protection? What we know about oppression and marginalization, is that there is never just one victim. Conversely, there are systems that worked together to ensure that Toyin was rendered powerless to all of the systems she was fighting against. Not anymore- we can’t allow Black girls to put their bodies and minds on the frontlines without protection.
WHO CAN APPLY.
Any Black girl activist who is under 25 and living in the United States
We are excited to offer relief to Black girl activists who embody the fierce commitment to activism Toyin exhibited. You do not have to be tied to any institution or organization.
You do not have to have an established record of protest and organizing, but qualify as long as you are currently participating in grassroots organizing or activism. Submissions who do have an established record of activism will be prioritized.Must be able to receive funds through paypal or venmo
HOW IT WORKS.
To date, the Freedom Fighters Fund has awarded a total of $100,000 to Black girl activists. We are so grateful to each contributor who donated in support of the protection of Black girlhood. Thank you, this would not be possible without you. We hope that this fund continually is a resource for Black girl activists across the nation, who personify Toyin’s revolutionary spirit.
The Freedom Fighters Fund currently offers grant amounts up to $750. Due to the overwhelming amount of support that we've received, we've been able to increase our relief. (originally listed as $250)
Select the amount of relief you are seeking: (1)$250 (2)$500 (3)$750 Provide an overview of your immediate needs that the grant can support. We're asking all requestors to describe how the grant can support your work and your holistic well-being. This fund can also support the materials and resources cost associated with activist projects.