SNYDER STRATEGIES

Do protests create change? Sometimes, but not by themselves. This post looks at what protests are actually good at, where advocacy picks up the work, and how nonprofits can build real pathways from moments of resistance to durable policy change.

About 90% of the time, when I ask organizations how they engage their grassroots, the answer is, “We have a lobby day.” That answer tells me a lot. Lobby days matter, but they cannot carry your entire advocacy strategy. Here’s how to turn one day at the capitol into something that actually builds momentum.

As we head into 2026, advocacy that works is built on clarity, not constant urgency. The most effective nonprofits are focused, intentional, and clear about what actually moves policy.