Christa Brown
Associate Director for State Policy and Advocacy
Why do you do what you do?
Growing up, I saw how different economic situations led to differing opportunities. Despite enormous wealth and opportunity, there are growing racial and economic divides in our community. Over the course of my career I have seen how government policies and systems can be a driver of these inequities, rather than acting as the catalyst for change that it can be. I believe we can do better, both here in the Bay Area and beyond. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with people and organizations advocating to make these systems work better for everyone.
What drew you to the foundation?
I am excited to work at a foundation that is charting a new course, centering the voices of communities to advocate for policy change. Historically, foundations have shied away from engaging in policy and advocacy, instead relying on funding programs to address structural inequalities. I am grateful to work at a foundation that has such a strong commitment to racial equity and economic inclusion, and that is unafraid to use their voice to challenge and change these structural inequities.
How would you describe your role?
I help the foundation advance policy change at the local, regional, and state levels. Whether that’s helping move forward ballot initiatives to increase affordable housing in the Bay Area, supporting grantees to advance policy change, or lobbying for state bills that advance economic and racial equity that will benefit all. I work with foundation staff and community-based and grassroots organizations to move forward structural change.