Historical Preservation
Read the latest news about Robert F. Smith’s philanthropy as well as events and news concerning his thought leadership, philanthropic partners and charitable initiatives.

Rosa Parks Statue Honors Enduring Power of Courageous Leadership
Rosa Parks was a courageous leader who inspired others to take action. Her statue will allow others to reflect on what it means to lead boldly.

Rosa Parks Statue Honors Enduring Power of Courageous Leadership
Rosa Parks was a courageous leader who inspired others to take action. Her statue will allow others to reflect on what it means to lead boldly.

Restoring the Siloam School: One of the Last Remaining Rosenwald Schools
Siloam School is one of the last Rosenwald Schools standing today. Learn more about how these wooden schoolhouses helped provide educational opportunities to Black students.

Honoring 60 Years: The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom
The 60th Anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom took place at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on August 28, 2023.

35th National Equal Justice Awards: Recognizing Philanthropic Leaders
In May 2023, the Legal Defense Fund hosted its 35th National Equal Justice Awards Dinner, honoring many incredible individuals.

The NMAAHC and Landmarks Illinois Preserve the Ebony Test Kitchen to Protect and Promote Black History
Black history is American history — and preserving Black historical and cultural sites is vital to expanding knowledge of the triumphs and tribulations of Black Americans.

Mansa: A Hub for Curated Black Cultural Content
Mansa, founded by David Oyelowo, Nate Parker, Chiké Okonkwo and Zak Tanjeloff, introduces global Black cultural content to diverse audiences.

New Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument Erected in Mississippi
Learn more about the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument and Robert F. Smith’s and Fund II Foundation’s continuous support to advance racial equity.

Measuring Progress: The Mount Sinai Robert F. Smith Mobile Prostate Cancer Screening Unit
The Mount Sinai Robert F. Smith Mobile Prostate Cancer Screening Unit has made significant progress in helping people across New York City detect prostate cancer.

How Black Salons and Barbershops Are Revolutionizing Healthcare Outreach
Black-owned beauty and barber shops use their spaces to provide healthcare outreach to the Black community through initiatives.

Southern University Breaks Black Male Nursing Student Enrollment Record
In 2024, Southern University’s College of Nursing and Allied Health welcomed 33 Black male nursing students into their cohort, the largest in its history.

Melinda French Gates Donates $1 Billion to Support Women’s Rights
Melinda French Gates, business owner and philanthropist, has pledged $1 billion to organizations and individuals advocating for women’s issues and rights.

Detecting Breast Cancer With the Conformable Ultrasound Breast Patch
The invention of more groundbreaking medical technology, known as the Conformable Ultrasound Patch, is helping to detect cancers early.

Addressing Healthcare Inequities and Breast Care Treatment for Black Women
Robert F. Smith is dedicated to helping address inequities in women’s healthcare, including breast cancer treatment. Learn about the organizations he supports.