As we head into the final stretch of 2025, we're back on the mic to tackle some of the most common questions we hear about accountability advocacy. Whether your organization is calling out broken promises, uplifting community voices, or demanding action from those in power, this episode is all about giving nonprofit organizations the clarity, confidence, and tools to hold public officials accountable boldly and legally. 

Attorneys for this episode 

Natalie Ossenfort 

Monika Graham 

Victor Rivera 

Shownotes

1. Can 501(c)(3) organizations participate in protests or rallies that are critical of the current administration without jeopardizing their tax-exempt status? 

Yes, 501(c)(3) organizations can legally participate in protests or rallies that are critical of the current administration or its recent decisions as long as the advocacy connects to the organization's charitable purpose and the activities remain nonpartisan. 

What's Allowed: 

• Protesting specific policies, laws, or actions taken by elected officials or government agencies 

• Organizing or participating in rallies that align with the organization's mission (e.g. immigrant rights, environmental justice, LGBTQ+ protections) 

• Naming elected officials and holding them accountable for their actions taken in their official capacity 

• Consulting with counsel about applicable laws and best practices 

What's Not Allowed: 

• Endorsing or opposing a candidate running for office, including incumbents up for reelection, even implicitly like connecting a stance on a specific issue and a political party or candidate (e.g. "Vote Pro-Choice") 

• Participating in protests that are clearly organized by or for/in coordination with candidate campaigns or parties 

• Timing a protest to coincide with an election with the intent to influence the outcome 

• Violating any federal, state, or local laws, engaging in criminal activity such as unlawful assembly, disorderly conduct, obstruction of law enforcement, or inciting or aiding illegal acts 

1. As the new Supreme Court term begins, are 501(c)(3)s allowed to educate the public about pending cases? What about organizing social media campaigns in response to recent decisions? 

Yes, 501(c)(3) organizations are absolutely allowed to educate the public about Supreme Court cases, including pending decisions, and to organize social media campaigns in response to recent rulings.