The Myth and Reality of a Neutral Stance on Divisive Issues

Advice from a communications pro about public statements on controversial matters. Plus, July 4 reading and movies [Philanthropy Today Logo]( This is a special weekly edition of Philanthropy Today featuring stories and content from [The Commons](. You can also [read this newsletter on the web](. If you no longer want to receive the Philanthropy Today newsletter, [unsubscribe](. Visit [The Commons]( for our latest content, sign up for [The Commons LinkedIn newsletter]( and join the conversation in our [Commons LinkedIn group](. Special note: The Commons weekly newsletter will be on break next week for the July 4 holiday. From The Commons COMMUNICATIONS [Can Your Group Stay Neutral on Controversial Topics? 5 Things to Know]( By Seth Chalmer [STORY IMAGE]( A communications prof offers tips for nonprofits considering whether to publicly take a stand on divisive issues Of the Moment Noteworthy news and items: - Michael Wines of the New York Times [looks at measures on state ballots]( in November that aim to reduce partisanship. These include legislation to overhaul redistricting and give voters a greater voice in choosing candidates. - The Vox podcast Today, Explained [explores the upcoming 250th anniversary of America’s founding]( and examines the complexities of commemorating national milestones in a diverse and evolving society. Also, philanthropy-backed documentaries that explore solutions to partisanship and the country’s divides are screening nationally. - [Join or Die]( follows what it calls “the half-century story of America’s civic unraveling.” The life and research of renowned social scientist Robert Putnam (author of Bowling Alone and the subject of a Commons [interview]( drives the exploration of the decline in community and possible solutions. Appearing in the film are big names such as David Brooks, Pete Buttigieg, Hillary Clinton, and Glenn Loury. - Veteran political documentary filmmaker AJ Schnack (Caucus, Convention) is out with [Majority Rules](. It follows Alaska’s first-of-its-kind elections in 2022 when it eliminated traditional party primaries and allowed voters to rank their candidates by preference. Nick Troiano, head of Unite America, produced the film. - [Undivide Us]( looks at toxic polarization in national politics, the media, and social media and how local communities view the country’s divisions. Anchoring the film, directed by Kristi Kendall, are focus groups in three cities. SUBSCRIBE TO THE CHRONICLE [Chronicle of Philanthropy Subscription] Enjoying the newsletter? [Subscribe today]( for unlimited access to nonprofit news and analysis. Webinars [July 18 at 2 p.m. ET | Register Now]( [STORY IMAGE]( It isn’t easy to create holiday appeals that capture donors’ attention during the busiest fundraising time of the year. To get a jump on these critical campaigns and a handle on what to expect this year, join us for Planning a Year-End Fundraising Strategy in the Current Giving Climate. You’ll learn from Skyler Reep of KSPS PBS and Seth Rosen of The American LGBTQ+ Museum as they share real-world appeals, proven approaches, and tips for planning ahead while staying flexible. Editor's Picks OPINION [Progress Is Won by Pursuing Justice, Not Waiting Patiently in Line]( By Nwamaka Agbo [STORY IMAGE]( Philanthropy that aims to save democracy says calls for justice are too divisive. But organized resistance led by Black Americans forged democracy’s greatest advancements. ADVICE [6 Ways a Volunteer Program Can Burst the Bubbles We Live In]( By Drew Lindsay [STORY IMAGE]( One tip from a charity leader with a 25-year track record of success: Ask those on the receiving end of charity to help, too. FOUNDATIONS [Major Funders Bet Big on Rural America and ‘Everyday Democracy’]( By Drew Lindsay [STORY IMAGE]( Takeaways from a new $50 million venture with national grant makers investing in philanthropy-starved rural America: “No one is coming to do this work for us.” [Chronicle of Philanthropy Logo]( This newsletter was sent to {EMAIL}. [Read this newsletter on the web](. [Manage]( your newsletter preferences, [stop receiving]( this email, or [view]( our privacy policy. © 2024 [The Chronicle of Philanthropy]( 1255 23rd Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20037