In search of
Fearless, outspoken risk taker willing to fight back against tyranny and strengthen our democracy by speaking truth to power.
Why We’re Here
Democracy needs to be more than a philosophy. More than a set of ideals. Democracy needs to be the default setting of our lives. Equality not as a dream, but as a given. Some would insist we are there, but we are not.
The shining beacon of democracy America often mythologizes does not yet exist. Instead, we remain trapped by systemic injustices. Health care. Criminal justice. Basic human rights. In part, because democracy is not a finish line we cross, or something that, once set in motion, continues merrily on uninterrupted. In part, because democracy must be fought for. Continuously. Vigorously. Relentlessly.
It’s time to find an antidote to that which ails us. A truth teller. A fearless, outspoken risk taker willing to fight back against tyranny and strengthen our democracy by speaking TRUTH TO POWER.
The Award
Truth to Power provides an annual award to help a rising activist further their work.
Formed in honor of the late William S. Goldman (Historian and Philanthropist, 1979–2017), the Truth to Power Award is given to fearless, outspoken risk takers willing to fight back against tyranny and strengthen our democracy by speaking truth to power.
Each year $50,000 is awarded to an individual based on your nominations. Three finalists will also receive $10,000 in award funds.
To learn more about the beginnings of the Truth to Power Award, click here.
What makes an ideal candidate?
An extraordinary person whose bold actions are championing democracy and speaking truth to power.
Someone addressing systemic inequality, and advocating for communities that have been excluded.
Someone early in their journey who has the potential to be a change agent and for whom this award can have a meaningful impact.
Have someone in mind? Please nominate an individual you believe deserves this award by April 30, 2024.
*PLEASE REVIEW OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS.
2024 Award Schedule
April 5 |
Nominations Open |
APRIL 30 |
Nominations Close |
JUNE 17 |
Recipient of the 2024 Truth to Power Award Announced |
May/June 2025 |
The Truth to Power Award Ceremony for the 2024 and 2025 recipients will be held at the 2025 Way Forward Conference. The date and location to be announced by June 2024. |
Our Leadership
Eboni Speight
Eboni leads and shapes Way to Win's organizational strategic direction from an operational and financial perspective, helping to ensure a culture of care, fiscal stability and operational efficiency.
Emily Timm
Emily Timm is a non-profit executive, community organizer, and movement strategist with 24 years of experience in the worker and immigrant rights movements.
Tory Gavito
Tory Gavito is President of Way to Win and is responsible for steering the vision and strategy of the power network of donors and strategists.
Meet the Judges
Anu Khosla
Anu Khosla is a brand strategist and next generation philanthropist who marries analytical thinking and science literacy with empathy-driven decision making to drive social impact.
Jason Berkenfeld
Prior to launching Bluespark Partners, Jason led political giving and investing for former Google CEO Eric Schmidt full-time for five years.
JOE KENNEDY III
Joe Kennedy III has dedicated his career to social and economic justice, and is President at Citizens Energy.
Mimi Marziani
Mimi Marziani has extensive experience in constitutional law, civil rights advocacy, nonprofit management and Texas politics, and is a nationally recognized expert in voting rights and law of democracy matters.
ABOUT US
Truth to Power was founded by Serra Falk Goldman and family in honor of her late husband, William S. Goldman, a 38-year-old professor of International Studies who believed in championing those with the courage to speak the truth in the face of powerful opposition.
“Now is our moment, in our millions, to demonstrate the courage of our convictions, to push back constantly against the waves of darkness.”
