It was the opening of Astraea's overwhelmingly successful Giving & Activism Retreat, and eighty-five people from around the world were engrossed in conversation. They sat knee to knee, shoulder to shoulder. For four dynamic days in November, activists and donors shared stories, strategies and transformative moments. Many of them met as strangers, but by the time they returned to homes in Zimbabwe, China, Chicago and New Mexico, they had become friends and allies.

"At the Retreat, rather than seeing obstruction in difference, we rejoiced in our mutual inspirations and encouragements." CHEN Yurong, Gender/Sexuality Rights Association of Taiwan

Conceived and hosted by Astraea, the Retreat was the second in a series for women and trans people committed to supporting global LGBTI social justice organizations. This year's theme of global activism mirrors Astraea's grantmaking focus -- just this year, grants totaled $1.3 million to 168 organizations in 93 cities and 42 countries. As the world's only lesbian-led, feminist foundation focused on both U.S. and international LGBTI human rights, the Retreat series is an organic component of Astraea's mission.

"No one else is doing the work that Astraea does in the way that it does it: directing financial resources where they are needed most and where they will be used to affect real change in queer people's lives." Kris Hermanns, Donor

"We wanted to give donors and activists the opportunity to connect in a unique and visceral way," said Katherine Acey, Astraea's Executive Director. "And by all accounts, we succeeded. People left Dallas infused with new ideas and energy, feeling invigorated and inspired. They also came away with the critical understanding that philanthropy is not a goal, but rather a tool of social justice -- something they can participate in fully."

With plenaries (see below) and workshops ranging from Countering the Right: Mobilizing Our Communities to Socially Responsible Giving, participants explored that powerful tool by sharing personal and collective giving practices, and examining the state of LGBTI activism worldwide.

Spirited dialogue filled the day sessions, and celebration and culture filled the evenings. The Dallas Women's Foundation co-sponsored a special opening reception with Astraea; and there was a surprise recognition of colleague, friend and founding donor of Astraea's International Fund which was celebrating its tenth anniversary. Participants enjoyed an array of film screenings by Astraea grantees, and a powerful performance from poet Sharon Bridgforth. So moved were participants by the Retreat that they organized a surprise tribute to Astraea, speaking from the heart and publicly pledging to support Astraea -- for some, indefinitely.

Advisory Board

Retreat Sponsors

THE STRATEGIC GIVING CIRCLE including:

Katherine Acey, Carol Alpert, Chela Blitt, Mai Kiang, Tucker Farley, Kathleen Russell and Karen Zelermyer