The Perils of Advocacy
How to Advance Your Cause in Difficult Situations| Hilton Baltimore, Holiday 5 | Posted: Tuesday, 2:00-3:15 p.m.
Successful Main Street programs derive strength from bringing together diverse stakeholders to focus on a common goal. But what happens when advocating for downtown's interests brings you into conflict with an important funder or major supporter? It can be difficult to maintain a broad-based coalition while taking a stand on controversial issues. Using case studies, this session will provide several practical strategies for navigating "the perils of advocacy" while maintaining your collaborative approach.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the value of advocacy to accomplishing their organization's mission
- Understand that broad, diverse collaborative efforts create space for conflicts
- Identify potential conflicts and issues that may arise as a result of their organization's advocacy efforts on behalf of downtown
- Employ four practical strategies before, during and after a crisis



