Nonprofits play a critical role in a healthy democracy, but they must do so ethically, legally, and in alignment with their missions, especially given 501(c)(3) restrictions. Combating authoritarianism and fascism is not about partisan politics; it is about protecting democratic norms, human dignity, and community resilience. 

* Revisit an old blog: How Nonprofits Can Safely and Legally Organize a Protest

Advocacy is often misunderstood in the nonprofit sector. Many organizations either avoid it entirely out of fear or attempt it without adequate preparation. In reality, advocacy is not optional for nonprofits committed to mission, equity, and long-term impact. It is a core responsibility. The question is not whether your organization should engage in advocacy, but whether it is ready to do so effectively, legally, and sustainably.

Below is a practical framework to help nonprofits assess their advocacy readiness.

Clarity of Mission and Values

Authoritarianism thrives when institutions weaken and public trust erodes. Advocacy should never feel bolted-on. The strongest advocacy efforts flow directly from an organization’s mission and values. Ask:

• Can we clearly articulate why advocacy matters to our mission?
• Are there specific issues or policies that directly affect the people we serve?
• Do our values guide how we engage, not just what we advocate for?

If advocacy feels vague, reactive, or disconnected, readiness likely starts with mission clarity, not messaging.

Understanding of Legal Boundaries

One of the biggest barriers to advocacy is fear, which is often driven by misinformation about what 501(c)(3)s can and cannot do. While 501(c)(3)s cannot engage in partisan activity, they can and should advocate. Advocacy readiness requires:

• A basic understanding of nonprofit advocacy rules
• Clear internal guidelines distinguishing advocacy from partisan activity
• Leadership and board comfort operating within those boundaries

Silence in the face of harm is not neutrality—it often reinforces the status quo. Nonprofits do not need to be silent to be compliant. They need to be informed.

Leadership and Board Alignment

Advocacy without leadership alignment creates risk and confusion. Readiness depends on:

• Executive leadership willing to name issues publicly
• A board that understands advocacy as mission protection, not political exposure
• Shared agreement on risk tolerance and decision-making authority

If staff are more willing to speak than leadership, or if leadership is more willing than the board, this misalignment will surface quickly under pressure.

Organizational Capacity and Infrastructure

Advocacy does not require a full-time policy team, but it does require capacity. Consider:

• Who is responsible for advocacy strategy and coordination?
• Do we have systems for tracking issues, relationships, and actions?
• Can we communicate consistently and clearly with stakeholders?

Under-resourced advocacy often leads to burnout or reactive messaging. Readiness includes being realistic about what you can sustain.

Community and Constituent Voice

Fascism depends on dehumanization. Effective advocacy centers the people most affected by decisions. Ask:

• Are we listening to our community regularly and intentionally?
• Do we have permission and trust to amplify their experiences?
• Are we advocating with people, not just for them?

Build a thriving community around your nonprofit cause. Organizations that speak without grounding in lived experience risk misalignment and harm, even with good intentions. This work must be grounded in facts, evidence, and lived experience. Not rhetoric.

* Revisit an old blog: Building a Community of Advocacy: Turning Passion Into Action

Relationships and Coalitions

Authoritarian movements gain traction where people feel isolated, economically insecure, or unheard. Advocacy is rarely effective in isolation. Readiness includes:

• Existing relationships with peer organizations or coalitions
• Willingness to collaborate rather than compete
• Understanding where your organization adds unique value

Strong, connected communities are far less susceptible to fear-based or exclusionary ideologies. Coalitions distribute risk, strengthen credibility, and increase impact, especially for smaller organizations.

Communications and Narrative Readiness

Authoritarianism thrives when reality is obscured. Advocacy requires telling the truth clearly and responsibly. Assess:

• Can we explain complex issues in accessible language?
• Are our messages consistent across audiences?
• Do we have protocols for responding to backlash or misinformation?

If your organization avoids public communication during tension, advocacy will be difficult to sustain.

Staff Support and Internal Culture

This is a time of moral stress for nonprofit leaders and staff. Advocacy can be emotionally demanding. Readiness includes:

• Psychological safety for staff
• Clear expectations around roles and boundaries
• Support for learning, reflection, and rest

Resilient organizations are better positioned to act with courage and clarity. Organizations that ignore internal impact often lose the very people doing the work.

Is Your Nonprofit Ready for Advocacy?

Authoritarian systems often target nonprofits, journalists, educators, and advocacy groups first. Nonprofits should:

• Support peer organizations facing harassment, censorship, or intimidation
• Collaborate through coalitions rather than operating in isolation
• Document and speak out—within legal limits—when civil society is threatened

* Revisit an old blog: Advocacy Guides

Solidarity among nonprofits is a protective strategy, not a political one. The sector’s role is not to choose sides in elections, but to stand firmly for democracy, equity, human rights, and the common good. History shows that authoritarianism advances when institutions retreat out of fear. It is resisted when institutions act with integrity, solidarity, and courage. Advocacy is not a leap. It is a progression. Readiness is where it begins. Advocacy readiness is not about perfection. It is about intentionality, alignment, and preparedness. Nonprofits that assess their readiness honestly are better equipped to protect their mission, serve their communities, and uphold democratic and human values, especially in volatile times.

The Nonprofit Snapshot can help organizations take this first step by offering a clear view of organizational health, capacity, and risk as critical foundations for effective advocacy. Please share your questions and comments on our Nonprofit Snapshot page on LinkedIn.