Melinda French Gates has pledged to donate $1 billion over the next two years to support women and families worldwide, with a focus on reproductive rights. French Gates emphasized her commitment to advocating for women and girls, particularly in the face of increasing abortion restrictions in many states. She highlighted the financial struggles of organizations fighting for women’s rights and expressed her desire to help level the playing field.
Motivated by the racial gap in women’s mortality rates and the rise in political violence against women, French Gates has committed $200 million to enhance the efforts of organizations protecting women’s rights. Additionally, she plans to partner with 12 global leaders, including Jacinda Ardern, Allyson Felix, and Shabana Basij-Rasikh, each receiving $20 million to improve women’s health both in the U.S. and internationally.
French Gates recently announced her decision to step down from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to focus on her new philanthropic efforts. She expressed pride in the foundation’s achievements and reaffirmed her dedication to addressing global inequities. The foundation, launched in 2000 by Melinda and Bill Gates, has been a significant force in global health, with Bill Gates donating approximately $35.8 billion in Microsoft stock since its inception.
In 2021, Melinda and Bill Gates ended their 27-year marriage but remained committed to the foundation’s mission.