PFC News ‘Both Sides Now’: Embracing hope and harsh realities in Canadian philanthropy Jean-Marc Mangin PFC News 3 mins read January 26, 2026 News & Insights PFC News ‘Both Sides Now’: Embracing hope and harsh realities in Canadian philanthropy The following opinion piece (only partially reproduced below) written by our CEO Jean-Marc Mangin, as a philanthropic sector contributor, was published by The Philanthropist Journal on January 12, 2026. You can find the full versions in English here and in French here. What does Joni Mitchell’s famous 1966 song about love have to do with Canadian philanthropy in 2026? Perhaps more than we’d expect. Just as her lyrics reflect the complexity and shifting perspectives of love, the philanthropic landscape has become more challenging and unpredictable. The political and economic grounds have shifted so forcefully that they are now shaking. Long-held assumptions about stability and impact are being tested by forces that disregard the rule of law and even basic norms of behaviour. This is not about naive longing for the good old days; it is about navigating a world that has fundamentally and irreparably changed. While we must deepen our understanding of these harsh and complex realities, our work continues to be guided by what endures: human needs, compassion, empathy, and a profound sense of community. These are the constants that can help us move through uncertainty, or our own “clouds,” toward a future where giving and shared humanity remain powerful forces for good. Yet, challenges to these values are gaining traction, with critics portraying them as weak, fragile, or even the “fatal flaw of Western civilization.” These ideas are not new, but they are increasingly amplified by powerful voices that seek to polarize and divide. Such narratives thrive on fear and resentment, and they must be rejected for what they are: nihilistic and rooted in prejudice. The wide range of approaches and issues supported by philanthropy provides an important foundation for a pluralistic and democratic society. A deep belief that a better world for all is possible remains an essential part of the philanthropic ethos. The wide range of approaches and issues supported by philanthropy provides an important foundation for a pluralistic and democratic society: there are many ways to support the public good, and our understanding of what constitutes the public good will also vary. This diversity is at the heart of our collective contributions. Domestic and international volatility and a US administration that sees us – at best – as a vassal state are reshaping the landscape in ways that strike at the core of Canada’s economy, sovereignty, and security. In this environment, long-standing assumptions can no longer be trusted. For foundations, this reality demands clarity and courage because the cost of inaction will not be abstract. It will be felt in eroded legitimacy and fractured communities. Throughout 2025, our network gathered across the country around one urgent question: What does it mean for Canadian philanthropy to meet this moment? Our conversations identified several shared conclusions, with, as always, many perspectives on how best to address them. Here is what we heard. Read the rest of the article here. Share This Article Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email
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