Should You Put Out a Statement?

The decision to issue a public statement in response to a major news event can be daunting for nonprofit communication professionals, especially when internal disagreements run deep. With divisive issues increasingly dominating headlines and the looming specter of the 2024 presidential election, organizations must navigate these challenges with clarity and intentionality.

Internal Clarity Matters

Before crafting a response, organizations must first establish clarity internally. This involves defining the organization’s stance on the issue at hand, understanding the tolerance range for differing viewpoints, and developing an advocacy strategy. These elements are interrelated but distinct, requiring careful consideration to avoid confusion and circular discussions.

Stance, Tolerance Range, and Advocacy Strategy

Every organization holds a stance on issues, whether explicit or implicit. Additionally, organizations have a tolerance range that delineates acceptable variations of opinion both internally and externally. Finally, organizations must deliberate on their advocacy strategy, determining how and when to engage with the issue at hand. Crafting a deliberate strategy ensures that responses are purposeful and aligned with organizational values.

Normalize Ideological Diversity

To foster productive dialogue amidst ideological differences, organizations must prioritize building a culture of respect and understanding. This requires intentional efforts to promote open-mindedness, empathy, and constructive discourse within the workplace. By practicing respectful engagement across diverse perspectives, organizations can navigate contentious issues with integrity and resilience.

In a landscape fraught with political tensions and societal upheaval, the ability to navigate controversy is essential for nonprofit communication professionals. By fostering internal clarity and embracing ideological diversity, organizations can effectively communicate their values while maintaining cohesion and purpose.

To learn more about how your organization can strategize over responding to polarizing world events, click here.