What we're reading, watching, and listening to in June 2024

"Risky Business, with Deborah Barron (New Left Accelerator) and Alex Tom (Center for Empowered Politics)" | Block & Build Podacast | Convergence Magazine | Hosted by Cayden Mak | May 24, 2024
In this weekly show examining the current balance of political forces in the United States from a movement perspective, host and Convergence Magazine Publisher, Cayden Mak, welcomes NLA's own Deborah Barron, and our partner Alex Tom, of Center for Empowered Politics, to discuss risk. Get an insider’s perspective on how to calculate and accurately assess risk in the movement, as well as distinction between types of risk – and how staying ahead of the game, knowing the rules, is the best way to go! But you have to stay ready because when you’re doing good, powerful work, there are more eyes on you trying to find weak spots – don’t let those be compliance mistakes! There are many tools and systems out there to protect you and allow you to lead bold work safely and compliantly. Check it out!

“Labor Militancy and Beyond, with Bob Master” | Block & Build Podacast | Convergence Magazine | Hosted by Cayden Mak | April 19, 2024
On another great recent episode, Bob Master joins Cayden on the latest ep of the Block & Build podcast and they dive deeper into his new piece, Militancy–and Beyond, co-published by Convergence and Jacobin. In the article, Bob lays out the need for political strategy and education in the labor movement so it can build working-class governing power from the recent wave of militant strikes. Give it a listen!

Democracy Donors Rally to Fund Election-Related Work Well Before November | By Sarah Henry | Inside Philanthropy | May 08, 2024
We’re a big fan of the ‘All by April’ campaign! This campaign launched by the Democracy Fund led to $127 million in commitments, giving nonprofit groups across the country an opportunity to gear up for election-related work this summer and fall. Check it out!

The Coming Attacks on Nonprofits | By Rachel Kleinfeld | The Chronicle of Philanthropy | April 1, 2024 
“Today, the space in which U.S. civil society operates is closing in — thanks to polarization, not a ruling party. Illiberals on the far right and far left have decided that it’s not enough to persuade: They must eliminate undesirable ideas — and organizations — using whatever power is at hand, their tactics pulled straight from those used by anti-democratic regimes abroad,” says Rachel Kleinfeld in her article. Drawing parallels with tactics used by semi-authoritarian regimes abroad, she highlights increasing legal and regulatory pressures on nonprofits. As polarization grows, philanthropy's piecemeal responses may not suffice. Learning from global experiences, collective action is needed to protect America's civil society and its democratic values. “Liberals — whether conservative or progressive — should join the effort to protect the national treasure that is America’s vibrant civil society.”

“Campaign Strategy Workbook” | Training for Change | April 25, 2024
Training for Change recently launched this Campaign Strategy Workbook resource for campaign organizers and coaches. This workbook offers practical strategy tools, including around cutting the issue, identifying targets, crafting demands, choosing tactics, and more, pulling from many traditions, organizations, and resources in the field. It has two components: an online guide with brief theory, case studies, and further resources on various strategy topics, and worksheets to fill out online or as print-outs, for each topic. Browse the workbook and check out our short video walkthrough.

‘Management in a Changing World: How to Manage for Equity, Sustainability, and Results’ | By Jakada Imani, Monna Wong, and Bex Ahuja | The Management Center
In ‘Management in a Changing World: How to Manage for Equity, Sustainability, and Results’, authors Jakada Imani, Monna Wong, and Bex Ahuja share The Management Center’s tried-and-true tools and advice but with new approaches, strategies, and stories for effective management. It’s packed with tools and techniques to help managers in nonprofits and educational organizations. This is the book every manager needs. Whether you’re a new or seasoned manager, this book helps you develop the mindsets and skills to manage equitably and sustainably to get great results.

Social Justice Nonprofits Facing Multiple Threats Need Solidarity and Support | By Deepa Iyer | Building Movement Project | May 22, 2024
Deepa Iyer's article for Building Movement Project highlights the growing threats facing social justice nonprofits, from physical and digital safety concerns to government scrutiny and reduced funding. As organizations advocating for reproductive justice, immigrant rights, race equity, LGBTQ rights, and Palestinian solidarity come under attack, solidarity and support from philanthropy and nonprofit partners are crucial. To protect these vital groups, it’s essential to provide legal, financial, and infrastructure support, ensuring their resilience and continued advocacy.

Fundamentals of Digital Strategy Nonprofits, Advocacy, and Campaigns 2.0 | The Center for Digital Strategy
The Center for Digital Strategy course offers six comprehensive lessons on digital strategy for nonprofits, including strategic planning frameworks, advocacy, core tactics, and budgeting. Learn the latest digital strategies through an interactive curriculum with live sessions and direct access to expert Brad. Gain practical tools and templates, master engagement and marketing essentials, and ensure your digital efforts are sustainable. Engage with peers and enhance your organization's digital capabilities.

Cultural Organizing 101: Train the Trainers Series | Highlander
Highlander cultural organizers and cohort members have released a Cultural Organizing Train-the-Trainers curriculum to support groups in developing strategies to build people power and fight fascism in their communities. A series of summer workshops to build a trainer cadre is now full, but we invite you to check out the curriculum and deepen skills with your community!