Ideas at Ford

A conversation series that dives into complex social justice issues of our time.

Hosted at the Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice by New York Times columnist Charles M. Blow, each episode features dynamic conversations on topical issues, including those connected to the Foundation’s central mission to fight inequality. Speakers include industry experts, policymakers, social justice leaders, key commentators, and authors with bold visions for the future.

Upcoming Ideas at Ford Conversations:

Equity in Women’s Sports

with Billie Jean King and Clara Wu Tsai

“Everyone watches women’s sports” is a slogan that has captured the growing momentum of women’s sports in the American zeitgeist. But as more audiences are tuning into both collegiate and professional games, more conversations about racial and trans equality are arising. How can both athletes and fans work to ensure an equitable future for women’s sports?

The Heartland: Elevating Forgotten Voices of Rural America

with Kevin Bacon

Rural communities across America have increasingly seen less money and more problems. With access to broadband, quality medical care, and good jobs dwindling the heartland of America is in urgent need of attention. Who are the changemakers in these areas and what are the opportunities we can’t afford to miss?

The Courage Fund

with Ta-Nehisi Coates, Salamishah Tillet, and John Legend

The #MeToo moment took the world by storm. Seven years later, we are examining what we can do as a culture to not only call out abuse but empower female and queer leaders to continue the work of enacting positive change for women, girls, and the queer community going forward?