Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the difference between advocacy and lobbying?

Answer: Advocacy and lobbying are both integral parts of democracy in action. Advocacy encompasses arguing for a cause, sharing facts and information with elected officials and building public understanding about the importance of an issue. Lobbying is encouraging the passage or defeat of a specific legislative bill. Nonprofits have an essential role to play in both lobbying and advocacy, and each is essential for the development of public policy that encourages cultural and artistic development in American communities.

For More Information: To become familiar with advocacy responsibilities and restrictions, see the NASAA Advocate editions “Advocacy by Arts Organizations: Tax Laws and Lobbying” and “Advocacy and Lobbying: Speaking Up for the Arts”.