NYCON Update: Federal Follow Up
March 4, 2025 –We have a few updates and resources to share, as NYCON continues to monitor federal actions:
2025 State of the Sector: Thank you to everyone who responded to NYCON’s annual member survey, which we held open longer than usual so it could reflect members’ views on the impact of federal changes. The full report is now available on our website. Please use this data-filled resource in your advocacy work, grant applications … or anywhere it is helpful. And as always,
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for future reports.
Save The Date: On Wednesday, April 9 from noon-1 pm NYCON is hosting a virtual “Federal EOs: Member Conversations,” part of NYCON’s free monthly webinars for members. We will begin with brief updates, then attendees will self-select breakout rooms for smaller facilitated discussions. There remains much unknown, but we hope this will give members a chance to share what they are hearing and doing. Register here
Free DEI Webinar: On Tuesday, March 11, New York Lawyers for the Public Interest and other legal groups are presenting “DEI Insights and Practical Guidance for Nonprofits Following Recent Executive Orders” at noon. Register here
U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer Recap: More than 750 individuals participated in Schumer’s webinar last week for nonprofits. A few of Schumer’s comments: Share Your Story: He said stories of how federal actions are impacting nonprofits are important, and encouraged nonprofits to share such information with your communities, with your local congressperson and with his office. He noted that even anonymous stories are helpful. I would also encourage you to continue sharing such stories via the National Council of Nonprofit’s online form, which has already been completed by more than 800 nonprofits.
Courts: He noted that the courts are the best way to stop changes detrimental to nonprofits. (I recently read that more than 100 lawsuits have been filed!)
DEI: He advised not to take language around diversity, equity and inclusion off websites, saying that the federal government is focusing on large corporations, not nonprofits. NYCON continues to recommend nonprofits not ‘over-correct,’ but every nonprofit also needs to make its own call, as federal actions remain inconsistent and unclear.
Gratitude: Schumer also thanked nonprofits for all the good they are doing, despite the challenges. “History shows … we can win these fights, just don’t give up,” he said.
I will keep in touch; in the meantime, take care everyone -
Regards,
Megan
Megan Allen | she/her/hers
Chief Executive Officer
New York Council of Nonprofits, Inc. (NYCON)
