Education to Electioneering: The Advocacy Continuum

The word ‘advocacy’ is regularly misinterpreted for concepts ranging from education to electioneering. Here, we break down each step on the continuum for you and explain the legal limits that apply at each stage.

Education

Increasing public understanding about the arts

Education at Work

  • Sharing information on the impact of the arts
  • Giving credit for public funds
  • Inviting elected officials to attend free arts events

Legal Limits

No limits for nonprofits (board or staff) as long as activities are nonpartisan

Advocacy

Expressing support for the arts as an important public policy issue

Advocacy at Work

  • Urging public officials to prioritize the arts
  • Describing a desirable policy direction
  • Explaining past and future impact of decisions

Legal Limits

No limits for nonprofits (board or staff) as long as activities are nonpartisan

Lobbying

Attempting to shape votes on pending legislation related to the arts

Lobbying at Work

  • Asking public officials to support or oppose a bill
  • Asking the public to contact public officials to influence votes
  • Organizing a rally

Legal Limits

Permitted for nonprofits (board or staff) within expenditure limits set by IRS

Electioneering

Making the arts an issue in political campaigns for elected office

Electioneering at Work

  • Making a campaign contribution
  • Endorsing a candidate or expressing opposition to a candidate

Legal Limits

Prohibited for 501(c)(3) nonprofits

Category: Know the Rules for Organizations