I may be wrong, but it's been my understanding that 501c3s certainly may (and should) engage in political speech... you just can't campaign or get involved in partisan elections. Many non-profits are releasing political statements right now, and non-profits can be an important platform for voices of dissent to be heard. I think as long as you stay away from elections it's fine. 

Can anyone chime in on the legal nuance here? It certainly would be good to know.

bud

On Fri, Feb 10, 2017 at 7:29 PM, Jimmy Hallyburton <jimmy@boisebicycleproject.org> wrote:

We simply reenforced the principals we already stand by in a written pledge on our Annual Report. Our board and staff signed onto the pledge and we'll be pushing it all throughout the year. Some people may view it as political, but it is really no different from the values we put in place from the beginning. We do think it is important to be broadcasting these values to the public in regard to recent policies. 

A Pledge, a Promise, and A Commitment

It has always been part of BBP’s Mission to create an educational workspace in a diverse and non-threatening atmosphere. In our tenth year, we are doubling down on that commitment and ensuring that our new shop is an inclusive and safe space for all. When you enter our doors, you are entering a place of love, empathy, and community. While inside you will be treated with the same amount of respect and regard as everyone you’re sharing the shop with. When you leave our building we hope to send you with the tools and confidence to connect to your next opportunity on two wheels. This is our pledge, promise, and commitment to the community.

 

Ride On!

Jimmy Hallyburton
Founder / Executive Director
Boise Bicycle Project
(208)-429-6520
1027 Lusk St Boise, ID 83706

www.boisebicycleproject.org

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On Fri, Feb 10, 2017 at 5:01 PM, Sarah Schaan <sarah.schaan@gmail.com> wrote:

I agree- and thanks for the irs link!

I think if the statement was phrased as a support document rather than a dissent document- such as highlighting the support of immigrants and refugees, we could stand behind our mission statement without violating the non-political requirement. 

I believe that the document would be useful, not just as a feel good sentiment, but as proof of a unified group with a message.

On Feb 10, 2017 3:55 PM, "mpattisall" <mike.pattisall@velocitycoop.org> wrote:

Be careful, if you are a 501c3 it could affect your non profit status and whether or not donations are tax deductible. 

https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/charitable-organizations/the-restriction-of-political-campaign-intervention-by-section-501-c-3-tax-exempt-organizations

On Fri, Feb 10, 2017 at 4:40 PM, Sarah Schaan <sarah.schaan@gmail.com> wrote:

Greetings everyone!

I am curious to know if any bikebike members/organizers have discussed making a collective statement about the recent political issues that USA has been dealing with?

 Several policies and many statements made by the White House and co. directly contradict our mission statement. As a multinational organization I believe we may have a greater impact if we could unite our voices in some manner. 

I have been bad at keeping up with social media/ email threads so if this has already been addressed, I would thank you for catching me up!

As always, keep your rad souls burning bright :)

Sarah Schaan, FMCBW 

Fargo

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--

Mike Pattisall
http://velocitycoop.org/
VéloCity Bicycle Cooperative
2111 Mt. Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301

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