Melinda French Gates stated that following the 2022 Dobbs decision by the US Supreme Court, which allowed individual states to determine abortion rights, she felt compelled to provide financial support for Americans’ reproductive freedoms.
She noted that while she had previously focused on improving contraceptive access overseas, she now intended to support reproductive rights domestically as well.
In an op-ed published in the New York Times, French Gates expressed her desire to level the playing field for organizations fighting for women’s rights, which she believes have long been underfunded compared to their opposition.
She announced her plan to donate $1 billion through 2026 to advance women’s rights globally through her organization, Pivotal Ventures, including $200 million in grants specifically for women’s reproductive rights.
As part of her efforts, French Gates will also provide $250 million in awards to organizations working to improve women’s mental and physical health.
In a move inspired by MacKenzie Scott, she plans to grant $240 million to a group of 12 advocates and influential leaders to distribute to organizations they believe are doing important work in women’s health.
French Gates emphasized her commitment to bringing a wider range of perspectives into philanthropy and to addressing issues such as America’s high maternal mortality rate and the absence of national paid family leave.
She expressed her determination to use her resources to empower women and girls globally, setting an agenda that supports their aspirations.
