Tides Advocacy Announces Romilda Justilien as Chief Executive Officer, Launches Healthy Democracy Action Fund
Leading Progressive Advocacy Organization Focuses on Building Political Power for an Equitable Democracy
SAN FRANCISCO, April 30, 2020 --
Romilda (Romy) Justilien has been appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Tides Advocacy, one of the largest 501(c)(4) infrastructure organizations serving progressive movement leaders and funders across the United States.
In its first major action under Romy’s leadership, Tides Advocacy is launching the Healthy Democracy Action Fund, a 501(c)(4) philanthropic fund with an initial $1 million seed investment, to support the development of a permanent political infrastructure that tangibly increases movements’ influence over elections and policymaking.
Romy previously served as Deputy Director from 2017 to 2019, and then as Interim CEO, until being appointed CEO by the Tides Advocacy board of directors on April 20, 2020. In her three years of leadership, she has solidified the strategic direction, financial health, and operational foundation of the organization, and deepened its commitment to and partnership with movement leaders at the leading edge of progressive advocacy.
“As a Black womxn and first-generation Caribbean immigrant, Romy brings great passion for creating a radical future of justice and liberation,” said Tides Advocacy Board Chair Shareen Punian. “Her policy acumen and determined, enthusiastic energy have made her an exceptional leader for our organization, and I have no doubt that she will continue to grow Tides Advocacy’s impact in the years to come.”
With over 25 years of history working in progressive issues, Tides Advocacy is now a $50M organization and the second-largest 501(c)(4) fiscal sponsor in the nation with a $3M operating budget to provide movement infrastructure, capacity building, and funding support to build political power and achieve policy wins.
“The COVID-19 health crisis is exacerbating inequities and disproportionately impacting people of color, incarcerated people, and marginalized communities,” said Romy Justilien, CEO of Tides Advocacy. “While we need to center the safety and well-being of those at the margins, now is not the time to stop fighting for our communities to be counted in the Census, pushing progressive ballot measures and policy, and engaging our communities in candidate races at all levels. We cannot let this crisis stop our fight for an equitable democracy.”
The newly launched Healthy Democracy Action Fund will provide general operating, multi-year funding to existing and new advocacy groups seeking to build political power in underrepresented communities. More information on the fund is available at https://tidesadvocacy.org/healthy-democracy-action-fund/.