The nonprofit sector has always been the backbone of justice, equity, and community well-being. But today, we find ourselves facing an alarming wave of executive orders that threaten the very values we fight to uphold. Whether it’s attacks on LGBTQ+ rights, immigration, healthcare access, or voting protections, these policy shifts have real, devastating consequences for the communities we serve. At Snyder Strategies , we believe that now is the time for nonprofits to be bold, strategic, and relentless. Advocacy is not just an option—it’s a necessity. Here’s how your organization can prepare, respond, and advocate  in the face of these challenges. 1. Preparing: Fortify Your Organization for the Fight Ahead 📌 Stay Informed & Educate Your Team: It’s crucial to understand the direct impact of new executive orders on your mission and those you serve. Create an internal policy tracker, follow trusted advocacy groups, and host regular strategy meetings to assess risks and opportunities. 📌 Bolster Your Financial Resilience: Executive orders can lead to funding cuts, shifts in grant priorities, or increased demand for services. Now is the time to diversify revenue streams—explore new grant opportunities, strengthen donor relationships, and launch emergency fundraising campaigns. 📌 Engage & Train Your Supporters: Your board, staff, volunteers, and community members need to be equipped to respond. Offer advocacy training, create action toolkits, and build a rapid-response network to mobilize people when urgent action is needed. 💡 How Snyder Strategies Can Help : We provide policy analysis, advocacy training, and funding strategy support to ensure your nonprofit is prepared for turbulent times. 2. Responding: Take Immediate Action When Harmful Policies Hit 📌 Issue Public Statements & Mobilize Rapid Response: Nonprofits must be vocal. Release statements, draft op-eds, and coordinate press outreach to make your position clear. 📌 Provide Emergency Support for Your Community: Whether it’s legal aid, crisis counseling, or emergency assistance, nonprofits need to pivot quickly to meet urgent needs. Collaborate with partner organizations to expand your impact. 📌 Leverage Digital Advocacy & Grassroots Action: Social media, email campaigns, and direct actions are powerful tools. Organize petitions, call-in campaigns, and online advocacy pushes to put pressure on policymakers. 💡 How Snyder Strategies Can Help : We specialize in rapid-response communications, grassroots mobilization, and crisis advocacy planning to help your nonprofit act quickly and effectively. 3. Advocating: Push Back & Demand Change 📌 Build Coalitions & Strengthen Partnerships: You don’t have to fight alone. Connect with advocacy networks, legal experts, and other nonprofits to coordinate strategies and amplify impact. 📌 Engage Lawmakers at Every Level: From city council to Congress, elected officials need to hear from you. Schedule meetings, testify at hearings, and submit public comments to make sure your voice is in the room. 📌 Invest in Long-Term Policy Change: Executive orders can be overturned—but lasting change comes from systemic reform. Push for legislative solutions, voter engagement, and community organizing to build lasting protections. 💡 How Snyder Strategies Can Help : We provide legislative advocacy training, campaign development, and lobbying strategy to turn outrage into long-term policy wins. Now Is the Time to Rise Up The fight is tough, but nonprofits are tougher. We are the advocates, the protectors, the voices for the most vulnerable. And we will not back down . At Snyder Strategies , we stand with you in this battle. Whether you need policy guidance, advocacy training, or campaign support, we are here to ensure that your organization not only survives—but thrives—in this challenging political climate. 💡 Let’s work together to turn outrage into action.  Contact us today to strengthen your nonprofit’s advocacy program. 👉 Get in touch Additional background: Statement from the Iowa Nonprofit Alliance on the Federal Funding Freeze Nonprofits, Public Health Leaders, Small Businesses File Suit to Block OMB Attempt to Halt Essential Services Executive Orders Affecting Charitable Nonprofits , National Council of Nonprofits (regularly updated) Want more smart, actionable advocacy insights like this?  Join my email list for strategies that help your nonprofit build power, influence policy, and actually get things done. No fluff—just tools, tips, and a little tough love.  👉 Sign up here  to stay in the loop. Listen to me discuss fighting back against executive orders on the podcast Nonprofit Nation with Julia Campbell Or watch the webinar recorded on 1-31-25

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have become political flashpoints, especially in light of recent federal actions. The current Administration issued executive orders restricting federal support for DEI-focused programs, and similar efforts continue today to undermine or defund DEI initiatives. The result? Widespread misinformation about what DEI actually is and why it matters. Nonprofits that do not rely on federal funding—and especially those with privilege and influence—must not capitulate in this moment. While some organizations are being forced to strip DEI language from their work to maintain critical funding, others have the freedom and responsibility to speak up, push back, and lead. We cannot allow misinformation and fear to dictate the conversation. Instead, we must proactively educate our communities, clients, donors, and lawmakers about how we define DEI and how we live it out in our work. We need to show—not just tell—how DEI strengthens our ability to serve, ensures fairness, and creates more effective, impactful programs. For many nonprofits, DEI is not a buzzword or a political stance—it is the core of their mission. Organizations working in housing, healthcare, education, and social services know that advancing equity is not an optional initiative; it is fundamental to ensuring marginalized communities have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. DEI is not about performative gestures; it is about dismantling barriers, addressing systemic inequities, and ensuring that all people—regardless of race, gender, disability, or socioeconomic status—have the opportunity to live with dignity and security. Additionally, many federally funded organizations are being pressured to remove these vital words, despite their significance. We recognize the difficult position this puts them in. But for those who are not constrained in this way, silence is a choice—and one that carries consequences. If your organization has the ability to be bold, now is the time to do so. But how do we communicate about DEI in ways that are accessible and compelling, rather than abstract or divisive? Here’s how your nonprofit can approach it. 1. Define DEI in Your Own Terms Before your nonprofit can talk about DEI externally, it needs to have internal clarity. Ask yourself: What does diversity, equity, and inclusion mean for our organization? How do these values show up in our programs, services, and decision-making? How do we ensure that DEI isn’t just a statement on our website but a lived practice? For example, if your nonprofit serves immigrant communities, equity might mean ensuring that all resources are available in multiple languages. If you work in healthcare access, inclusion might mean hiring culturally competent staff who understand the lived experiences of the people you serve. By defining DEI in ways that are directly tied to your mission, you make it easier for your staff, supporters, and community to understand and embrace it. 2. Move Beyond Jargon and Be Pragmatic DEI should not feel like an academic exercise or a corporate checkbox. Instead of relying on broad DEI statements, focus on real-world applications. Instead of saying: 🔹 "We are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for all." Try this:✅ "We recognize that our community members have diverse needs, so we provide materials in multiple languages and partner with organizations specializing in accessibility." Example: 🏠 A housing nonprofit developed the first supportive housing community in its region primarily serving LGBTQ+ seniors. Recognizing that older LGBTQ+ adults face housing discrimination and unique health challenges, they created a housing model that provides not only affordable housing but also culturally competent services. ➡ Real-world application:  Instead of simply stating a commitment to equity, they designed a program specifically to meet the needs of a historically underserved group. Instead of saying: 🔹 "We strive for equitable representation in leadership." Try this:✅ "We have set a goal that at least 50% of our board and leadership team reflect the communities we serve, and we are actively recruiting through local grassroots networks." Example: 🏠 A homelessness services organization set a goal to ensure leadership and board diversity mirrors the communities they serve. They recruit through grassroots networks rather than relying on traditional corporate hiring pipelines, which often exclude marginalized groups. ➡ Real-world application:  Rather than making a broad commitment to equity, they implemented specific hiring practices to diversify leadership in a measurable way. Instead of saying: 🔹 "We support inclusive economic empowerment." Try this:✅ "We reinvest 100% of our profits back into housing solutions for underserved populations." Example: 🏠 A social enterprise real estate agency reinvests all profits into housing solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness. Unlike traditional real estate companies, their model ensures revenue directly funds affordable housing projects. ➡ Real-world application:  Instead of broadly supporting "economic empowerment," they created a business model where every dollar earned directly benefits marginalized populations. 3. Make DEI Relatable to Different Audiences Your board members, donors, volunteers, and community members may all have different levels of understanding about DEI. Tailor your messaging accordingly: For donors and funders  → Show how your efforts improve impact and outcomes. Example: “Our new outreach strategy led to a 30% increase in engagement with historically underserved communities, like .” For staff and volunteers  → Focus on practical ways they can integrate DEI into their roles. Example: “We provide annual training on cultural competency so that every team member can better serve our diverse community, for example ” For the general public  → Use storytelling to illustrate DEI in action. Example: Share testimonials from those impacted by your inclusive programs. The key is making sure DEI feels relevant and personal to each audience. 4. Show, Don’t Just Tell People believe what they see more than what they hear. Instead of only talking about DEI, demonstrate it in action: Feature stories of diverse community members and how your programs impact them. Share behind-the-scenes examples of how your nonprofit is making internal changes to promote equity. Use images and videos that authentically represent the communities you serve. If your organization values DEI, it should be reflected in your hiring practices, program design, and leadership representation—not just in your messaging. 5. Be Transparent About Challenges and Progress No organization has a perfect DEI track record, and that’s okay. What matters is a willingness to improve and communicate openly. Instead of portraying your nonprofit as having DEI “figured out,” share your learning journey. For example: “We recognized that our leadership team didn’t reflect our community, so we launched a mentorship program to develop diverse leadership from within.” “Our initial DEI efforts lacked accessibility considerations, so we are now partnering with disability advocates to improve.” Being honest about your progress builds trust and credibility with your audience. 6. Invite Engagement and Feedback DEI shouldn’t be a one-way message—it should be a conversation. Encourage your community to share their thoughts, experiences, and ideas: Include a feedback form on your website. Host listening sessions with your stakeholders to understand their needs. Create opportunities for staff and volunteers to contribute to DEI efforts. By making DEI a participatory process, your nonprofit can continuously evolve and improve in ways that are meaningful to the people you serve. Final Thoughts: Make DEI Real and Practical In an era when DEI is being misrepresented and politicized, nonprofits must be clear and confident in communicating what it really means. We must not allow misinformation to define the narrative. Instead, we should proactively show how DEI is about ensuring fairness, expanding access, and making our programs more effective. By defining DEI in your own terms, using plain language, demonstrating real impact, and inviting feedback, your nonprofit can make DEI a lived reality—not just an abstract ideal. Want more smart, actionable advocacy insights like this?  Join my email list for strategies that help your nonprofit build power, influence policy, and actually get things done. No fluff—just tools, tips, and a little tough love.  👉 Sign up here  to stay in the loop.

Advocacy is one of the most powerful tools nonprofits have to drive change, yet many organizations hesitate to engage in it. Some worry about legality, others fear they don’t have the resources, and many simply don’t know where to start. But advocacy isn’t just for professional lobbyists or massive national organizations. Every nonprofit—no matter its size—already possesses 4 powerful advocacy superpowers  that can influence policy, shape public opinion, and strengthen communities. Let’s explore these 4 Nonprofit Advocacy Superpowers  and how your organization can use them to create meaningful change. 1. Subject Matter Expertise – You Know the Issues Best Nonprofits are the go-to experts  on the challenges they address. Policymakers, government officials, and even the media rely on nonprofits for accurate, credible, and up-to-date information about pressing community issues. Why it matters: Lawmakers often lack deep subject-matter knowledge and look to nonprofits for guidance . Decision-makers need clear, fact-based recommendations  on policy solutions. Your organization’s expertise makes you a trusted resource  in policy discussions. How to harness this superpower: Be proactive—don’t wait for lawmakers to ask for your input. Provide policy recommendations  and expert testimony. Offer briefings or fact sheets  that explain the issue and propose solutions. Position your nonprofit as a thought leader —write op-eds, hold educational events, and engage with the media. Advocacy Tip:  Meet with legislators and their staff regularly to offer your expertise. If they see you as a trusted advisor , they’ll turn to you when they need information. 2. Localized Data and Information – Make the Issue Real Big-picture statistics are helpful, but localized data  is what truly moves decision-makers. Lawmakers care most about what’s happening in their own districts —and nonprofits can provide that on-the-ground insight . Why it matters: Localized data connects policy to real-world impact . Decision-makers are more likely to act when they see the effects in their own communities . It helps tailor policy solutions that actually work at the state and local levels . How to harness this superpower: Collect and share data specific to your city, state, or community . Use infographics and visuals  to make statistics easy to digest. Partner with research institutions or universities  to strengthen your data. Advocacy Tip:  When meeting with lawmakers, bring district-specific numbers —for example, “In Senate District 20 , child care shortages impact 2,500 families .” That’s the data they need to take action. 3. Stories from People with Lived Expertise – Put a Human Face on the Issue Facts and figures are important, but stories are what truly inspire action. Real people’s experiences  make policy issues tangible, urgent, and impossible to ignore . Why it matters: Lawmakers and the public connect with personal stories  more than abstract policy discussions. Stories help decision-makers understand the real impact  of laws and policies. They add emotion and urgency  to advocacy campaigns. How to harness this superpower: Gather stories from people directly affected  by the issue. Train advocates to confidently share their experiences  with legislators and the media. Create a story bank —a collection of written or video testimonials to use in advocacy. Advocacy Tip:  Pair a personal story  with compelling data  for maximum impact. Example: “In Iowa , 43% of LGBTQ youth report feeling unsafe at school. Let me introduce you to Alex, a student in your district who experienced this firsthand… ” 4. Access to People Who Care and Are Motivated to Act – Mobilizing Your Network Nonprofits have a built-in advocacy army —staff, board members, volunteers, donors, and community partners—all of whom care deeply about the cause  and can be mobilized to take action. Why it matters: Lawmakers pay attention to their constituents —the more voices they hear, the stronger the impact. People are 5x more likely to open advocacy messages  than fundraising emails. Engaged advocates are 7x more likely to donate  to an organization. How to harness this superpower: Organize email campaigns, petitions, and calls to lawmakers . Use your social media and newsletters  to keep supporters engaged. Train your supporters on how to advocate effectively —provide scripts, talking points, and action alerts. Advocacy Tip:  Lawmakers want to hear from their own voters . Help your supporters contact their legislators directly , whether through email templates, social media toolkits, or in-person advocacy days. Ready to Activate Your Advocacy Superpowers? Your nonprofit already has  the tools it needs to be a powerful advocate. The key is using them strategically and consistently . ✅ Use your expertise  to guide policy discussions. ✅ Provide localized data  that makes issues real for lawmakers. ✅ Share stories  that inspire action. ✅ Mobilize your supporters  to amplify your advocacy efforts. Advocacy isn’t just an option—it’s a responsibility.  The health and strength of our democracy  depend on nonprofits being engaged. It’s time to step into your power and make your voice heard. Need Help Strengthening Your Nonprofit’s Advocacy? At Snyder Strategies , we help nonprofits unlock their full advocacy potential —whether you’re just starting out or ready to scale up your efforts. ✅ Advocacy training  for staff, board members, and supporters ✅ Strategic planning  to build powerful campaigns ✅ Messaging and storytelling guidance  to make your advocacy more effective ✅ Policy research and relationship-building strategies  to engage lawmakers Let’s work together to turn your nonprofit into an advocacy powerhouse.  Contact Snyder Strategies  today to get started! Want more smart, actionable advocacy insights like this?  Join my email list for strategies that help your nonprofit build power, influence policy, and actually get things done. No fluff—just tools, tips, and a little tough love.  👉 Sign up here  to stay in the loop.

This morning, I received an advocacy email with three acronyms in the subject line. Three. Before I even opened it, I had to stop and decode what the sender was trying to tell me. That’s a problem. If your advocacy or policy email requires a decoder ring, people aren’t going to take action. They’re going to delete it. We work in complex policy spaces. Health care, education, environmental policy, and countless other issue areas are full of specialized terminology. But if we want people—especially new supporters—to engage, we need to stop speaking in a language only insiders understand. Here’s why acronyms don’t work in advocacy and what to do instead. 1. Acronyms Create a Barrier to Engagement When someone sees a string of unfamiliar letters, they immediately have to decide: Do I already know what this means? Do I care enough to figure it out? If the answer is “no” to either question, they’re gone. Using acronyms makes people feel like they aren’t “in the club,” and no one wants to feel excluded. 2. Acronyms Kill Urgency Advocacy emails, social media posts, and action alerts need to be clear and compelling. If people have to pause and translate an acronym, you’ve lost precious seconds—and possibly their attention. Compare these two subject lines: ✅ Tell Congress: Protect LGBTQ+ Iowans from Discrimination ❌ Urge Your Senator to Oppose HF 123 and Support SJR 45 The first tells you exactly what’s at stake. The second? Who knows. 3. Acronyms Are Impersonal Your audience isn’t a group of policy wonks sitting around a committee table. They’re real people who care about the issues but don’t live and breathe legislation every day. They need messages that speak to them in human terms, not government-speak. What to Do Instead Say what you mean.  If you’re talking about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, say “food assistance” first, then add the acronym (SNAP) if necessary. Write for a non-expert.  If someone unfamiliar with your issue can’t understand your subject line, rewrite it. Make it about the people, not the process.  Legislation, rulemaking, and funding streams matter, but what matters most is how policies impact people’s lives. Focus on that. Bottom Line: Clarity Wins If you want people to act, make it easy for them. Ditch the acronyms. Speak plainly. And always, always put people first. Want more smart, actionable advocacy insights like this?  Join my email list for strategies that help your nonprofit build power, influence policy, and actually get things done. No fluff—just tools, tips, and a little tough love.  👉 Sign up here  to stay in the loop.

Recently, I heard about a nonprofit association that faced a serious challenge: a major source of their funding was on the chopping block during their state’s budget negotiations. They had a lobbyist on retainer. They activated their own members to speak out. On the surface, it looked like they were checking the right boxes. But there was a major gap in their strategy: They didn’t engage the broader nonprofit sector or their coalition partners. When I asked the organization’s leadership why they had made this decision, their answer was simple: "We didn’t want to bother anyone." While understandable — none of us want to be seen as a nuisance — this was a huge missed opportunity. Worse, it could have long-term consequences that extend far beyond this year’s budget cycle. Why Not  Engaging Coalition Partners Is a Risky Strategy Advocacy doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Every funding source, every policy battle, and every legislative conversation is influenced by broader narratives and power dynamics. By deciding not to engage sector allies and coalition partners, this organization: Limited their reach.  Their immediate membership could only get them so far. Sector partners could have broadened their message across regions, sectors, and issue areas, building more political pressure. Missed the chance to educate.  Advocacy isn’t just about this year’s budget. It’s about laying groundwork. By educating a wider audience now, they could have built stronger champions for the future — and made future challenges much harder for opponents to justify. Isolated themselves politically.  When a policy battle happens in isolation, it signals to policymakers that the issue might not be that important or urgent. Coalition and sector engagement shows broad support and adds weight to your advocacy. In other words: The decision not to engage partners didn’t just make it harder to win this time. It made it harder to win next time, too. "Bothering" People Isn't the Problem — Poor Engagement Is I often tell my clients: You’re not bothering people when you invite them to stand up for something important. You’re giving them an opportunity to lead, to act, and to make a difference. The real issue isn’t asking for help. It’s how  you ask for help. Smart, respectful partner engagement doesn’t overwhelm people — it empowers them. It’s about: Framing the issue clearly: "This funding supports X critical services — and losing it would harm our entire sector." Offering turnkey actions: "Here’s a simple sign-on letter," "Join this virtual meeting," or "Make a quick call." Showing respect for their time and priorities: "We know you’re juggling a lot. Here’s exactly how you can help — and how it advances all our work." And here’s the key: You should always ask. They can say no — and that’s okay. But if you don’t ask, you’re not just missing tactical support. You’re missing the chance to invite people into your work, into your vision, and into a shared sense of ownership over your mission's future. Invitation is leadership. It shows you value your partners as part of the solution — not just as an afterthought. The Forward-Thinking Approach: Building a Stronger Advocacy Ecosystem Here’s the truth: The most effective advocacy isn’t transactional. It’s transformational. It’s about weaving together relationships, credibility, and shared interests long before (and after) a crisis point. When the nonprofit sector is interconnected, informed, and activated: Policymakers see a stronger, unified front. Funders recognize investment-worthy leadership. Communities are better protected from policy threats. The lesson from this nonprofit’s experience is clear: Next time, don't fight alone. Build the ecosystem now. Engage your partners early and often — even when it feels a little uncomfortable. Especially then. At Snyder Strategies, we help organizations move from reactive to strategic — and from isolated to influential.If you’re ready to rethink your advocacy approach and build the partnerships you need to thrive, let's talk. Ready to build your advocacy muscle? Contact Snyder Strategies today. Want more smart, actionable advocacy insights like this?  Join my email list for strategies that help your nonprofit build power, influence policy, and actually get things done. No fluff—just tools, tips, and a little tough love.  👉 Sign up here  to stay in the loop.

Back in January, I shared the five big advocacy trends to watch  in 2025. And guess what? It’s already time for a mid-year upgrade. Because if you’re still trying to use January’s playbook in April, you might be missing the moment. The landscape is shifting fast — and effective advocacy means staying nimble, bold, and a little bit scrappy. So, consider this your power-up: five advocacy moves that pack a punch and will keep your mission in motion for the rest of 2025. 1. Discover and Harness Your Advocacy Superpower Every organization has a unique advantage. Maybe you’re masterful storytellers. Maybe you have compelling, untapped data. Maybe you have a super-engaged base that just needs a spark to ignite. Whatever it is, name it and use it. Your advocacy superpower is what makes you memorable in a crowded policy space — don’t waste it trying to imitate someone else. 🔗 Read more: The 4 Nonprofit Advocacy Superpowers , Every organization has a unique advocacy superpower — the key is knowing how to spot it and use it strategically. Discover how to pinpoint your most valuable asset and capitalize on it for optimal policy impact. 2. Reframe Advocacy as Mission Work Still treating advocacy like a side hustle? Stop. It’s not extra. It is  the work. Whether you’re fighting for more funding, pushing for policy change, or protecting hard-won progress, advocacy is what makes your mission sustainable and scalable. Your board, your staff, and your supporters need to see it that way, too. 💡 Service: The   Advocacy Roadmap  helps you embed advocacy into your organization’s DNA — aligning it with your mission, clarifying your goals, and building a clear, strategic plan to make real impact. 3. Build Relationships Before You Need Them Advocacy is relational, not transactional. Don’t wait until your bill drops or a crisis hits to start showing up. Build authentic connections with legislators, community partners, coalitions, and journalists now . These relationships are your scaffolding — they’ll hold you up when it counts. 🔗 Training : “Advocacy 101: How Nonprofits Can Grow Their Influence and Power” breaks down the basics of nonprofit advocacy, shows you how to tap into your community’s power, and gives you the tools to start making real policy change — starting with a legislator research worksheet you can use right away. 4. Turn Your Email List into an Advocacy Engine That list you built for fundraising? It’s also your grassroots firepower. Stop sending passive newsletters and start activating your people. Segment your list. Give them bite-sized, doable actions. Make them feel like insiders. And if you're only using email for end-of-year asks, you’re leaving major advocacy potential on the table. 💡 Service : The Advocacy Communications Audit helps you unlock the full power of your email list. Through a strategy session and detailed memo of findings, Snyder Strategies will analyze your advocacy communications and deliver actionable steps to turn passive subscribers into active change-makers. 5. Pair Data with Real Stories Numbers matter, but stories move people. The most persuasive advocacy blends head and heart: the stat that makes you stop, paired with the story that makes you care. If you can show both the scale and  the stakes, you’re going to win more hearts, minds, and policy fights. 🧰 Training : Our "Spill the T: Storytelling as a Powerful Advocacy Tool" workshop is all about helping you find and tell the real stories that move hearts, change minds, and make your advocacy efforts hit harder — and you’ll walk away with one ready to share. These aren’t just nice-to-haves — they’re power moves. In a year when the stakes are high and the nonsense is higher, your advocacy strategy has to be mission-driven, audience-ready, and built for impact. At Snyder Strategies, I help nonprofits like yours cut through the noise, raise their visibility, and win real change. If you're ready to level up — with smarter messaging, bolder strategy, and the kind of support that doesn’t flinch when things get messy — let’s talk. Because business as usual won’t cut it. But powerful, unapologetic advocacy? That just might. Want more smart, actionable advocacy insights like this?  Join my email list for strategies that help your nonprofit build power, influence policy, and actually get things done. No fluff—just tools, tips, and a little tough love.  👉 Sign up here  to stay in the loop.

June is here, and that means the rainbow logos are rolling out. But in 2025, we need to talk about what Pride isn’t —because queer folks, especially our trans siblings are under siege. Again. This isn’t just a celebration. It’s a crisis. This year alone, over 800 anti-LGBTQ+ bills  have been introduced across the country—most aimed at trans and nonbinary youth, healthcare bans, speech restrictions, and legal protections. In Iowa, we suffered one of our greatest political losses in years: the removal of gender identity from the state’s civil rights code . It’s devastating—and it’s a signal of what’s to come if people with power and privilege stay silent. And yet, every June, businesses and organizations drape themselves in rainbows while staying silent or absent the rest of the year. This is called performative allyship  (also known as “rainbow-washing”). It’s not just lazy—it’s dangerous. So before you throw on that rainbow tee or snap a selfie at Pride fest, ask yourself: Are you showing up in ways that matter? What Not to Do This Pride Month For Businesses Rainbow merch is not a strategy. If you didn’t speak up during legislative attacks, if you haven’t supported LGBTQ+ employees, or if you only show up in June—it’s time to change course. Do this instead: Join or create an LGBTQ business coalition in your community. Publicly oppose anti-LGBTQ+ legislation—not just when it's convenient. Audit your policies and workplace culture. Fund local queer-led groups doing year-round work in hostile environments. For Organizations Don’t just call your local LGBTQ+ nonprofit asking for a speaker or a Pride Month tabling opportunity. They’re already doing triple-duty—running community events, managing volunteers, and holding the line against dangerous policies. If you haven’t supported them before June, don’t add to their burden. Do this instead: Reach out in July and ask, “How can we build something real together?” Use your June programming to educate the public about the threats facing queer people. Leverage your organization’s power to spotlight LGBTQ+ stories year-round. For Individuals Yes, Pride is joyful. But it’s rooted in protest. Before you change your profile pic or stock up on rainbow gear, reflect: Have you shown up for your queer and trans friends this year? Ask yourself: Did I check in on my LGBTQ+ friends and family, especially those in hostile states? Did I speak out or contact lawmakers about anti-LGBTQ+ legislation? Did I donate to local and state-based queer orgs doing the real work? If not—don’t just show up at Pride. Step up. What You Can Do Right Now Donate to LGBTQ+ organizations—especially those on the frontlines in states like Iowa. Here are a few I personally support: Family Equality  – The only national org solely focused on LGBTQ+ families. One Iowa Action  – We stopped more than 40 anti-LGBTQ+ bills this session. But we lost gender identity protections. Help us elect pro-equality lawmakers in November. Iowa Trans Mutual Aid Fund   – Providing small, life-saving grants to Iowans seeking gender-affirming care. Their support is critical in the wake of Iowa’s care ban. Pride is not a vibe. It’s a responsibility. It’s a commitment to fight, to care, and to act—even when there aren’t rainbows everywhere. Let’s make this June more than just colorful. Let’s make it count. Want more smart, actionable advocacy insights like this?  Join my email list for strategies that help your nonprofit build power, influence policy, and actually get things done. No fluff—just tools, tips, and a little tough love.  👉 Sign up here  to stay in the loop.

Remember that blog post I wrote— "Don’t Go It Alone: Why Engaging Your Allies Is Critical to Advocacy Success" ? Well, consider this the real-world sequel. An organization I watched closely did exactly what I warned against: they went it alone. They hired a lobbyist, shut the door behind them, and assumed that was enough. Spoiler: it wasn’t. Here’s the thing—they had a compelling mission, real community impact, and important policy goals. But instead of bringing their allies along, activating their network, or showing legislators their broad base of support, they relied solely on their lobbyist to make the case. No coordinated messaging. No grassroots push. No visible movement behind the scenes. And lawmakers noticed. Or rather, they didn’t. The absence of visible, vocal support made it easy for decision-makers to assume this issue just wasn’t urgent. And without public pressure, sector backing, or constituent voices, the effort stalled. Don’t get me wrong—lobbyists are valuable. A good one can open doors, translate policy jargon, and help you navigate complicated systems. But a lobbyist is not a strategy. They’re a tactic. One part of a much bigger whole. When nonprofits sideline their most powerful assets—their people, partners, and public voice—they cut themselves off from their true source of power. Policy change doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It happens when lawmakers hear from trusted allies, when they see sector-wide alignment, and when they feel public accountability. And frankly, a lobbyist who doesn’t encourage you to engage your broader network? That’s a red flag. Your community is your power. Your coalition is your credibility. And your collective voice is what moves policy. So please—use lobbyists. But don’t hand them the keys and walk away. Advocacy only works when you bring your whole village. Lean on Snyder Strategies for Expert Support At Snyder Strategies, I help nonprofits build advocacy strategies that actually work—grounded in coalition power, community voice, and strategic policy engagement. Yes, I’ve worked with lobbyists (some great ones! and I was one!), and I also know the magic happens when your people show up, your allies speak out, and your mission is impossible to ignore. Whether you're starting from scratch or rethinking a stalled campaign, I can help you design a strategy that lifts your whole ecosystem— not just one hired gun. Let’s build something stronger, together. Want more smart, actionable advocacy insights like this? Join my email list for strategies that help your nonprofit build power, influence policy, and actually get things done. No fluff—just tools, tips, and a little tough love. 👉 Sign up here  to stay in the loop.

Losing a big policy campaign is tough. It can feel disheartening, frustrating, and even overwhelming. After investing so much time, energy, and passion, it’s natural to wonder: What now?  While a setback like this is difficult, it’s not the end of the fight. In fact, it’s an opportunity to regroup, learn, and strategize for what comes next. We’ve seen devastating policy losses before, and we’re seeing them now. Just last week, the Iowa Legislature and Governor removed gender identity  from Iowa’s Civil Rights Code—a cruel and unprecedented move. This marks the first time a state has stripped an entire protected class from its civil rights protections. This wasn’t just a policy loss; it was an attack on the fundamental rights of transgender Iowans, and its impact will be felt for years to come. Other movements have faced similar painful setbacks. Gun control advocates have fought for stricter regulations after mass shootings, only to see common-sense reforms stall in legislatures. Immigration advocates have battled against policies that tear families apart, such as harsh border restrictions or rollbacks of DACA protections . Those fighting for SNAP benefits  and other safety-net programs have seen eligibility cutbacks, leaving vulnerable families struggling to put food on the table. These moments hurt. But history has shown us that advocacy doesn’t stop after a loss. The movements that make lasting change keep going, even when the road gets harder. 1. Acknowledge the Loss and Thank Your People First and foremost, recognize the hard work that went into the campaign. Advocates, volunteers, donors, and community members dedicated their time and energy, and they deserve to hear that their efforts mattered. Even though the policy didn’t pass, the movement built along the way has value. Just as important, acknowledge and thank the lawmakers who stood with you . In a tough fight, it’s easy to focus on those who worked against you, but it’s critical to lift up those who voted the right way, spoke out, and stayed firm —even if they were in the minority. If they took a political risk to support your cause, let them know it was worth it. They’ll remember that support the next time this issue comes up. Send a message to your supporters acknowledging the loss, thanking them for their contributions, and reminding them that change doesn’t happen overnight. Assure them that this setback was not due to a lack of effort but rather part of a larger, ongoing fight for progress. 2. Give Your Team and Volunteers Time to Process A loss takes an emotional toll. Before jumping into the next steps, allow staff and key volunteers some time to process and recover. This could mean a few days of reflection, a team debrief where people can express their feelings, or simply encouraging self-care. Taking this time prevents burnout and ensures that people come back with renewed energy for what’s ahead. Taking this time prevents burnout and ensures that people come back with renewed energy for what’s ahead. 3. Evaluate What Worked—and What Didn’t (Even When Nothing Could Have Worked) Once emotions settle, it’s important to take a hard look at the campaign’s strengths and weaknesses. What messages resonated? Where did opposition gain traction? Did outreach efforts connect with key audiences? But sometimes, nothing would have changed the outcome . In Iowa, the numbers simply weren’t there. No amount of messaging, organizing, or last-minute lobbying would have prevented the removal of gender identity protections from the civil rights code. When an opposition majority is determined to pass or repeal something, sometimes the best campaign in the world still won’t be enough. That doesn’t mean the effort was wasted. Advocacy isn’t just about winning individual fights—it’s about building movements . The passion, stories, and energy from this campaign will carry into future fights, whether on the same issue or another. The relationships built and skills honed will matter down the road. This evaluation shouldn’t be about finger-pointing or dwelling on mistakes. Instead, it’s a way to learn and improve for the future. Document these insights, not just for your team but also to share with advocates in other states who might be working on similar issues. The movement is bigger than one campaign, and sharing lessons learned helps strengthen advocacy efforts nationwide. 4. Consider Next Steps: Legal, Enforcement, or Future Legislative Avenues Just because the policy didn’t pass or you didn't stop a harmful bill doesn’t mean the issue is over. Consider: Legal Avenues  – Are there legal challenges that can be pursued? For example, when states have passed anti-immigrant legislation, organizations have sued to block enforcement. In Iowa, civil rights advocates are already exploring legal options to fight the removal of gender identity protections. Enforcement Strategies  – If the policy involved an existing law, are there ways to ensure better enforcement? For instance, when federal protections for SNAP benefits were rolled back, state and local governments worked on alternative support programs. Future Legislative Efforts  – If this isn’t the right time or political landscape for your policy, when might it be? Gun reform advocates, for example, often build long-term strategies that prepare for future legislative windows when momentum shifts. Thinking strategically about next steps keeps the movement alive and focused. 5. Keep the Community Engaged One of the biggest risks after a policy loss is losing momentum and engagement. People who were deeply involved in the campaign might feel discouraged or unsure of what to do next. It’s essential to maintain communication and keep them engaged. Some examples include: Hosting community meetings or debriefs to discuss what’s next. Providing clear ways for people to stay involved in advocacy efforts. Highlighting small wins along the way to keep morale up. Shifting efforts to other related policy work to keep people connected to the broader mission. For example, in the wake of Iowa’s rollback of gender identity protections, LGBTQ+ organizations are focusing on mutual aid, legal advocacy, and building support for future legislative action. Similarly, when SNAP benefits have been cut, food security advocates have doubled down on local solutions like expanding food pantries and state-level policy changes. The community impacted by this policy still needs support, and keeping people engaged ensures that the movement doesn’t fade. 6. Look Ahead: The Fight Isn’t Over Every major policy victory is built on a history of setbacks, lessons learned, and resilience. The repeal of gender identity protections in Iowa is devastating, but it’s not permanent. Gun control advocates didn’t stop after the failure of federal background check legislation. Immigration rights activists didn’t quit when DACA was rescinded. While this loss may sting, it’s part of a longer road toward meaningful change. The most important thing is to keep moving forward. Take time to reflect, appreciate the work done, and then refocus on what’s next. Whether it’s reintroducing the policy later, shifting to a new strategy, or strengthening your organization for future fights, the work continues. Your efforts matter. The movement isn’t over. And together, we will keep pushing for a better future. How Snyder Strategies Can Help If your organization is navigating the aftermath of a tough policy loss, Snyder Strategies  can help you move forward with clarity and purpose. With deep expertise in advocacy strategy, coalition building, and post-campaign recovery, we provide tailored support to help you analyze what worked, strengthen relationships with stakeholders, and develop a roadmap for next steps . Whether it’s crafting effective messaging to keep supporters engaged, identifying new legislative or legal strategies, or ensuring your movement stays strong for future fights, we work alongside you to turn setbacks into opportunities for long-term impact. A loss doesn’t mean the fight is over—let’s build what’s next, together.  Reach out today to see how we can support your advocacy work.

(and one thing Allies can do) The political climate is shifting, and not in our favor. With a wave of anti-LGBTQ+ executive orders and legislative attacks rolling out at both the state and federal levels, LGBTQ+ families across the country need to take proactive steps to protect themselves. We’ve been here before—those of us who lived through the pre-marriage equality days know the drill. Back then, we had to create legal safeguards for our families because the government wouldn’t recognize us. Now, we must take those same steps again to ensure our rights aren’t stripped away. While families in red states like Iowa, Texas, and Florida face particularly urgent threats due to aggressive anti-LGBTQ+ legislation , no state is entirely safe. What happens at the federal level—through executive orders, judicial rulings, and potential policy rollbacks—could impact queer families nationwide. This is a moment for action—not panic, but preparation. Legal experts are already warning LGBTQ+ families to prepare for potential changes in federal protections. Organizations like Family Equality  ( familyequality.org ) and Lambda Legal  ( lambdalegal.org ) have outlined essential actions to take now, including securing legal relationships, getting documentation in order, and ensuring that loved ones know and can enforce your wishes. Here are five critical steps LGBTQ+ families across the U.S. should take right now to secure their futures. 1. Protect Your Family: Legalize and Secure Your Relationships For decades, LGBTQ+ families have fought for every scrap of legal recognition. Before marriage equality, we cobbled together wills, power of attorney documents, and second-parent adoptions just to ensure basic rights. We hoped those days were behind us—but the reality is, legal recognition can be taken away. We must prepare accordingly. Marriage Matters  – If you are in a long-term relationship but haven’t legally married, now is the time to consider it. Marriage offers crucial legal protections, including inheritance rights, medical decision-making authority, and spousal benefits. If marriage equality is challenged at the federal level, those already married may have stronger protections than those who wait. Second-Parent Adoptions  – If you are a non-biological parent, you need more than just your name on a birth certificate. Courts in hostile states have ruled that birth certificates alone do not establish legal parenthood. A court-approved adoption or parentage judgment provides stronger protection. Parental Rights for Trans Parents  – Trans parents should take extra precautions, as legal recognition of gender identity is under attack. If your legal gender marker differs from when your child was born, consult an attorney to ensure your parental rights are secure. Take action now while legal mechanisms are still intact. Family Equality  offers excellent legal guides for LGBTQ+ parents navigating these issues ( familyequality.org ). 2. Get Your Documents in Order Even if you are legally married or have secured parental rights, you need documents that clearly outline your wishes—because if the legal landscape shifts, those documents could be your strongest line of defense. Wills and Estate Plans  – Without a will, your assets may not go to your spouse or partner, depending on how courts interpret intestacy laws. Secure your legacy now. Power of Attorney & Medical Directives  – If you become incapacitated, who will make decisions for you? Don’t leave that up to the courts or hostile family members—have clear documents that legally grant your partner, spouse, or chosen family the authority to act on your behalf. Parenting Agreements  – If you are co-parenting outside of a traditional legal structure, put your agreements in writing. This is especially crucial for LGBTQ+ families navigating shared custody arrangements. Legal advocacy organizations like Lambda Legal  provide resources on securing these documents ( lambdalegal.org ). 3. Follow and Engage with Your State LGBTQ+ Organizations National organizations play a critical role in LGBTQ+ advocacy, but your state-level LGBTQ+ organizations  are on the front lines, fighting state-specific attacks and providing critical resources to families. Find Your State LGBTQ+ Organization  – Many states have LGBTQ+ advocacy groups like Equality Florida  ( eqfl.org ), Equality Texas  ( equalitytexas.org ), One Iowa  ( oneiowa.org ), and more. Check Equality Federation’s directory  to find your state’s organization ( equalityfederation.org ). Look for Legal & Advocacy Resources  – Many state LGBTQ+ organizations provide guidance on legal protections, legislative updates, and community support. Sign Up for Action Alerts  – Stay informed about threats to LGBTQ+ rights in your state and learn how you can help push back. State-level LGBTQ+ organizations are some of our strongest defense lines—make sure you're engaged with them. Check Equality Federation’s directory  to find your state’s organization ( equalityfederation.org ). 4. Contact Your Lawmakers—Tell Your Story We are facing an unprecedented wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in state legislatures and at the federal level. Many lawmakers pushing these policies claim they “don’t know any LGBTQ+ families.” It’s time to change that. Make It Personal  – Share who you are, what your family looks like, and how these policies affect you. Lawmakers need to hear that we are their constituents, their neighbors, and their community members. Be Specific  – Whether it’s parental rights, healthcare access, or discrimination, name the issues that matter most to you. Don’t Let Them Ignore You  – Call, email, and attend local events. If lawmakers refuse to listen, organize and make noise. Look to your state-level LGBTQ+ organizations for their action alerts and legislative resources. Check Equality Federation’s directory  to find your state’s organization ( equalityfederation.org ). 5. Build and Strengthen Your Community Now, more than ever, we need to lean on one another. The LGBTQ+ community has always been strongest when we come together, and this is no exception. Join LGBTQ+ Family Networks  – Organizations like Central Iowa Rainbow Families, Family Equality  ( familyequality.org ), PFLAG  ( pflag.org ), and local LGBTQ+ centers  provide essential support and advocacy. Know Your Legal Resources  – Groups like Lambda Legal  ( lambdalegal.org ), the ACLU  ( aclu.org ), and the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR)  ( nclrights.org ) can help with legal concerns. Take Care of Each Other  – Offer support to families who may be struggling, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. For Allies: Now is the Time to Step Up If you are an ally, now is the time to support LGBTQ+ families with your voice, your vote, and your wallet . Donate to Your State LGBTQ+ Organization  – These groups are leading the fight against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and supporting families on the ground. Find yours at   equalityfederation.org . Support National Organizations on the Front Lines  – Groups like Lambda Legal  ( lambdalegal.org ), Family Equality  ( familyequality.org ), and the ACLU  ( aclu.org ) are fighting for LGBTQ+ rights nationwide. Now is the time for action. Whether you are LGBTQ+ or an ally, standing together is how we win.

In today’s rapidly shifting state and federal landscape, nonprofits are under more pressure than ever to mobilize communities and drive change. With a heightened focus on advocacy and grassroots engagement, many organizations find themselves well-prepared in policy expertise but lacking the specialized skills needed to inspire and activate their supporters. As legislative agendas evolve and new challenges emerge, the ability to not only understand complex policy issues but also to translate them into compelling, actionable messages has become a critical factor for success. The Realm of Policy Expertise Policy experts are the architects of systemic change. They immerse themselves in the intricacies of issues, delving deep into the research, impacts, and legislative processes. Their role is to ensure that every policy recommendation is backed by rigorous analysis and evidence. These professionals build the foundation of knowledge that underpins effective reform. However, their strength lies in understanding the mechanics of an issue—not necessarily in mobilizing support or inspiring action. The Art of Advocacy Advocacy is where ideas meet action. Advocacy professionals specialize in mobilizing people, crafting resonant messages, and building the collective power necessary to drive change. Their work is about more than just understanding an issue—it’s about communicating it in a way that inspires and motivates. Even when tackling policy issues outside their subject-matter expertise, advocacy experts excel by focusing on what they do best: energizing stakeholders and translating complex policy details into clear, actionable steps. They empower advocates with the confidence and information needed to engage with lawmakers and influence public opinion. Why the Distinction Matters Many nonprofit organizations boast a strong policy team, but without dedicated advocacy expertise, the potential for real-world impact is often limited. Policy experts provide the critical backbone of knowledge and strategic insight, yet it is the advocacy professionals who convert that insight into action. They are the ones who rally communities, create compelling narratives, and ultimately turn policy ideas into tangible outcomes. Snyder Strategies: Your Partner in Advocacy Excellence At Snyder Strategies, we recognize that successful change requires more than just expert policy analysis. We bring a forward-thinking approach to advocacy, ensuring that your organization’s message resonates and mobilizes your target audience. Drawing on 25 years of nonprofit advocacy expertise, Bethany excels at bridging the gap between complex policy challenges and grassroots action. We design strategies that not only educate but also inspire—because every campaign deserves an expert leader who can translate deep insights into tangible influence. Conclusion In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving landscape, the roles of policy and advocacy are both indispensable. Policy experts build the case for change, while advocacy professionals bring that case to life by engaging and empowering communities. With Snyder Strategies, your organization can harness the full spectrum of expertise needed to create lasting impact. Take the next step—partner with Snyder Strategies and transform policy insights into action that truly makes a difference.

I am fired up. Furious, even. But beneath the fire, I feel an overwhelming sense of disappointment. The nonprofit sector is in crisis. We are being squeezed from every direction – harmful federal policies that dismantle progress, shrinking budgets that stretch us to the breaking point, and a deafening silence from donors who have seemingly disappeared when we need them most. Funders, this is not the time to retreat. This is your moment to rise, to lead, and to demonstrate the courage we know you possess. Yesterday, I sat on a call with nonprofit advocacy professionals – warriors who fight every day for their communities. Funders were present, too. I asked them directly: “What are you hearing? What is holding you back?” One response knocked the wind out of me: “We want to speak up, but some of our donors don’t want us to.” Are you serious? This is not a time for silence or complacency. If you allow a handful of hesitant donors to dictate your voice, you abandon the very organizations you pledged to support – especially those serving LGBTQ communities, trans folks, immigrants, refugees, and countless others on the frontlines. These nonprofits have shown up, fought fiercely, and stood tall through adversity. Now they need YOU. As usual, Vu Le captures this urgency perfectly in his latest blog , warning that if current trends continue, endowments will be worthless in a fascist state.  What will it take for you to break the silence, to demonstrate bold leadership, and to be BRAVE? The nonprofits you support have risked everything for years.  Now is the time for you to match their bravery with your own. My disappointment runs deep. My anger is giving way to a profound sadness. Funders, you have the chance to make history. This is your defining moment. We are waiting. And we are watching. During the same call, nonprofit leaders made their needs clear: they requested a public education campaign to highlight the vital role of the nonprofit sector in our state. Funders don’t even need to fund this campaign – they have the influence, connections, and platforms to lead it themselves. So why the hesitation? The time for action is now. Nonprofits are not asking for the impossible – they are asking for solidarity, courage, and leadership. Funders, history will remember those who stood up in times of crisis. Will you be remembered as a champion of justice and equity, or as a bystander who stayed silent? The choice is yours.