News from the Frontlines
Hear from the voices of the movement and our partners fighting for justice and equity in Los Angeles.
September 2026
In this month’s issue of News from the Frontlines, we share breaking news, inspiring insights, and take you behind-the-scenes of local movements driving real social change. Read on for a powerful reflection on Liberty Hill’s 50-year legacy from President & CEO Shane Murphy Goldsmith, learn about the powerhouse Community Funding Board behind our 2026 Fund for Change grantmaking cycle, and get the latest updates from the STAND-LA coalition on the fight to end neighborhood oil drilling in L.A. All this and more in this month’s issue!
[WATCH] 50 Years of Social Change: Civic Leaders Reflect on Liberty Hill’s Half-Century Fight for Justice
The Los Angeles City Council recently presented Liberty Hill Foundation with a special proclamation at City Hall to honor our 50th anniversary. Experience the celebration firsthand! Watch the presentation recap video to hear inspiring words and reflections from key civic leaders, Liberty Hill’s President & CEO, and our co-founder.
[WATCH] From Extraction to Opportunity: Frontline Communities Are Building What Comes Next
A historic win for frontline LA neighborhoods is within reach! Thanks to STAND-LA and Liberty Hill partners, Los Angeles is on the verge of a historic phase-out of urban oil drilling. Watch our new video to hear what this pivotal moment means for frontline communities.
Building the Future Together: The Community Funding Board’s Impact on Fund for Change
Guided by our Community Funding Board, Liberty Hill’s Fund for Change grants support emerging movement leaders advancing justice across Los Angeles. This year’s board members brought vital lived experiences, community knowledge, and philanthropic perspectives to the grantmaking process. Read on to learn more.
[OP-ED] Moving Nonprofits Forward Without Holding Them Back
Imagine what frontline organizations could achieve if they were given the same financial security, stability, and generational freedom that an endowment provides. Liberty Hill President & CEO Shane Murphy Goldsmith challenges funders to move away from outdated practices and eliminate the exhausting demands placed on organizations on the ground. Read the full article.
[Op-Ed] Beyond Extraction: Funding the Fight Against Oil Drilling in Los Angeles and the Future Communities Are Building
In a powerful new SoCal Grantmakers Op-Ed, Senior Director of Environment & Climate Justice Angelo Logan reflects on the fight to end neighborhood oil drilling, the future of sites like the Inglewood Oil Field, and why philanthropy must invest not only in stopping harm, but in building what comes next.
New Episodes of Conversations from the Frontlines Out Now!
Season 5 is officially here! Liberty Hill’s award-winning podcast, Conversations from the Frontlines, is back with bold, powerful conversations featuring frontline leaders, visionaries, and changemakers turning possibility into action and shaping what’s next for Los Angeles. Read on to learn more!
Activate Your Impact: Join the National DAF Day Movement on 10/8
Join changemakers across the nation on October 8, 2026, for the third annual DAF Day! This national day of action mobilizes Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) to support grassroots movements and social justice. Read on to learn how you can leverage your DAF to build a more equitable Los Angeles.