by Marie Ellis, MCN public policy director, appearing in Fall 2024 issue of Nonprofit News
Communicating with elected officials can be extremely impactful in setting or changing public policy (the laws and rules we all have to follow). Nonprofits communicate with volunteers, donors, partners, clients, customers, and the public everyday, but are often hesitant to share those same messages with elected officials. Here are some common misperceptions about talking to legislators, with important reality checks.
Misperception 1: I’m not an expert, I don’t have anything to tell a legislator.
Reality: Imagine you stop ten people randomly at the Minnesota State Fair. Would all ten of them perfectly understand the work you do, why it is important, and how things are going in the communities with whom you work? If not, don’t assume your legislators do either! Your lived experience and knowledge of your organization’s work make you an important resource for legislators. They cannot be everywhere and rely on you to share information on what’s happening in their district. Keep in mind that it’s always okay to say, “I don’t know, but I’ll find out and follow up,” then actually do it. This shows you are a great resource for information, and provides another connection point after the meeting.
Misperception 2: There’s no reason to talk to a legislator, if I don’t have a specific ask for them.
Reality: You may hear this from many seasoned advocacy professionals, but I disagree. When legislators think of nonprofits, top-of-mind for many are the nonprofits at the center of large-scale, heavily-reported on fraud. This skewed perception is harming the entire nonprofit sector, leading to unnecessary and burdensome regulations and decreased public trust. It’s crucial to share that your nonprofit does vital, honest work for your community. You have a unique opportunity — and responsibility — to help legislators see the many positive sides of the sector.
Misperception 3: Advocacy isn’t part of our mission.
Reality: Even if public policy advocacy isn’t explicitly part of your nonprofit’s mission, engaging with lawmakers can help remove barriers and create opportunities that directly impact the people and issues you serve. By influencing public policy, you can create a stronger foundation for fulfilling your mission in the long run.
Misperception 4: My nonprofit will get in trouble if we talk to a legislator.
Reality: Nonprofits can legally lobby, as long as we follow IRS guidelines (IRS information on lobbying and nonprofits) and Minnesota’s rules (MN information on lobbying), and there are no limits on how much we can educate elected officials! If you’re not sharing an opinion on specific legislation or asking the elected official to take a position legislation, what you’re doing is called advocacy, and is not lobbying. Share stories, data, and other information to your heart’s content.
Misperception 5: Only people who donate money have any influence.
Reality: It has been my experience over the last 20 years that most legislators are genuinely interested in talking to nonprofit staff and learning about their work. They rely heavily on our expertise to understand the real-world impact of policies on their constituents.
Misperception 6: I don’t have the time.
Reality: You know your time constraints best, but legislative advocacy can be easier and more impactful than most people realize. There are ways to engage that can be scaled to your organization’s abilities, such as signing on to coalition letters, emailing legislators, or inviting a lawmaker to tour your site.
Misperception 7: I don’t know how to do a legislative meeting.
Reality: If you have ever communicated with another person, you’re all set. There’s no special formula for conversations with legislators!
Are there other reasons you’re hesitant to connect with your lawmakers? Please contact Marie Ellis, MCN public policy director, at mellis@minnesotanonprofits.org.