Nonprofits play a vital role in a democracy by empowering communities to advocate for their needs, organize around shared goals and serve vulnerable populations. They often fill gaps in services where government and private sector efforts fall short, amplifying the voices of the marginalized and fostering innovation that addresses society’s toughest challenges.

But nonprofits - and their essential role in our communities - are under threat. 

H.R. 9495, a bill currently moving through Congress, poses an unprecedented danger to the nonprofit sector and, by extension, to the democratic freedoms we all rely on.

You might read the title of H.R. 9495, the Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act, and think it’s focused on combating terrorism and aiding hostages—a noble cause. But beneath this misleading language lies a dangerous provision granting unchecked power to label nonprofits as “terrorist-supporting” without evidence—silencing critical voices and dismantling civil society.

If passed, this bill would grant the executive branch to label nonprofits as ‘terrorist-supporting’ without due process, allowing them to shut down organizations they disagree with—no evidence required.

This bill isn’t about protecting against terrorism—it’s about silencing dissent. It’s an anti-First Amendment weapon wrapped in anti-terrorist packaging, and it sets a dangerous precedent.

H.R. 9495 poses a grave threat to the core freedoms that define our democracy—freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and the freedom to advocate. If passed, it could allow any administration to:

Shut down organizations fighting for LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice or labor unions

Target religious congregations, universities or community nonprofits over ideological differences

Seize nonprofit assets, intimidate future advocacy and deter dissent

This bill doesn’t just affect one side of the aisle. It endangers all nonprofits, from food banks and faith-based organizations to environmental groups and educational institutions. Imagine a world where political agendas silence critical community services and voices.

What’s at Stake for Nonprofits and Communities

Nonprofits play a vital role in building healthier, more just communities. They provide essential services like healthcare, education, and housing. They amplify the voices of marginalized groups and hold those in power accountable.

This bill threatens to strip nonprofits of their ability to serve and advocate. Without the nonprofit sector, our communities lose a crucial mechanism for civic engagement, innovation and change.

The ripple effects would be devastating—impacting individuals and entire communities who rely on nonprofits for advocacy, resources and support.

The fight to stop HR 9495 has moved to the Senate. Here’s how you can take action right now:

Call your Senators. Urge them to reject H.R. 9495. Vu from Nonprofit AF has linked to this helpful document with detailed explanations, scripts and lists of elected officials who voted for or chose not vote at all on this dangerous bill: LINK

Spread the Word. Share this post or write your own to raise awareness, then use your social and offline personal networks to ensure people know what’s at stake.

Support Advocacy Efforts. Donate to or volunteer with organizations leading the fight against this bill, such as the NAACP and ACLU. Your contributions help field legal challenges, public education campaigns and direct advocacy with lawmakers.

Nonprofits are more than service providers—they are defenders of democracy. They are the lifeblood of civil society, and defending them is defending democracy. 

Now is the time to act to ensure our communities continue to have a voice and protect the freedoms that allow nonprofits to serve and advocate for the public good. We stand with our nonprofit clients and friends; let’s do this. 

H.R. 9495 is a dangerous bill that threatens nonprofit organizations and core democratic freedoms. Learn how this bill could silence civil society and what actions you can take to help stop it.

Defend Nonprofits, Defend Democracy: Take Action Against H.R. 9495

Why This Dangerous Bill Threatens Free Speech and Civil Society—and How You Can Help Stop It

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These are the issues that stir us up and move us forward—areas where we’re choosing to go deeper instead of trying to do it all at once. They give shape to our research, creative work and client collaborations, helping us stay grounded in what matters most.

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We believe joy is fuel for change. It connects us, uplifts us and reminds us what we’re fighting for. From LGBTQ+ rights to building more inclusive workplaces, we’re elevating the moments that make us feel seen, celebrated and free.

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These themes aren’t limits—they’re launchpads. Inside each one lives a network of vital, interconnected issues: from LGBTQ+ rights and work culture to gun safety, reproductive healthcare, mental health and climate justice. We’ll be writing, building, reflecting and co-creating throughout the year, and we’d love to have you in the mix.

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Finding Focus in a Noisy World: Our Social Impact Areas

Finding Focus in a Noisy World: Our Social Impact Areas

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