Nonprofit Leadership
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** Is It Time to Unmuzzle the Nonprofit Sector?
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September 30, 2025
The nonprofit sector’s relationship with political power has never been more complex—or more consequential. As recent developments underscore the vulnerability of progressive organizations to government scrutiny, fundamental questions emerge about how the sector can effectively advocate for change while protecting its independence and mission integrity.
Tom Tresser’s provocative call for a nonprofit version of the Powell Memo ([link removed]) speaks directly to this challenge. Five decades ago, corporate America organized strategically to counter what it perceived as growing threats from civil rights and labor movements. Today’s nonprofit leaders face their own moment of reckoning, one that may require similar coordination and strategic thinking to defend democratic values and the communities they serve.
The regulatory landscape adds another layer of complexity. Ann Lehman’s examination of the Johnson Amendment ([link removed]) reveals a paradox at the heart of nonprofit advocacy: the very rules designed to protect organizations from political interference may also constrain their ability to engage meaningfully in the democratic process. This tension becomes particularly acute when political forces target the sector itself.
Yet effective advocacy requires more than regulatory navigation—it demands sustained relationship-building and strategic communication ([link removed]) . Rhea Wong’s insights on cultivating major donor relationships across different personality types offer practical guidance for maintaining the financial partnerships that enable advocacy work.
Meanwhile, on the frontlines of information integrity, Chinese American organizations are pioneering approaches to combat disinformation, as Piyaoba details—work that exemplifies how nonprofits can shape public discourse and democratic participation within their communities ([link removed]) .
In solidarity,
Coty Poynter
Managing Editor
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** Must-Read Articles
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The Case for a Nonprofit Version of the Powell Memo
by Tom Tresser
Over 50 years ago, a lawyer’s memo helped set the tone for a corporate reaction to perceived growing civil rights and labor union power. Could nonprofit advocates for a more just society organize a memo of their own today?
Read Article ([link removed])
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Unmuzzling Nonprofits: Is It Time for the Johnson Amendment to Go?
by Ann Lehman
For many, the Johnson Amendment is seen as a vital tool to shield nonprofits from political interference. But the rule also has served to politically weaken the sector.
Read Article ([link removed])
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Building Relationships with Major Donors, from Hot Shots to Cool Cucumbers
by Rhea Wong
In this installment of Ask Rhea, Rhea offers advice on working with major donors, emphasizing taking the time to build relationships.
Read Article ([link removed])
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Fighting Disinformation on the Chinese American Front Lines
by Piyaoba
False narratives are proliferating across Chinese-language media. Fortunately, new in-language nonprofit digital publications are helping to contain disinformation.
Read Article ([link removed])
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Nonprofit Leadership offers timely civic news, equity-centered insights, and innovative frameworks for leaders building a just and thriving civil society. This newsletter delivers field wisdom, leadership strategies, and practical tools to help you lead with intention and create sustainable impact in your organization and community.
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