Updated February 10, 2025
This page will be updated regularly as new information becomes available. Please email indyarts@indyarts.org if you have any questions or would like to share a resource.
Please note: These resources have been compiled solely for informational purposes and are not intended to be legal advice.
What’s happening?
Executive orders by the White House are undergoing legal review as government agencies assess the implementation of new requirements and regulations affecting federal operations. To support the tracking of these evolving executive orders, organizations such as the National Council for Nonprofits have developed resource guides that provide regularly updated overviews of each executive order and its related impacts.
The Indy Arts Council remains committed to supporting artists and arts organizations by providing resources to navigate these evolving political changes. These tools can help arts and culture organizations stay informed, protect their rights, and advocate for their communities.
Resource Guides
1. Navigating New Executive Orders: Legal Assistance for Indiana’s Arts and Culture Sector
As new executive orders from the Trump administration take effect, many communities may face legal uncertainties. Whether addressing issues related to civil rights, racial equity, or artistic expression, these legal resources can provide crucial support for individuals and organizations in Indiana.
Pro Bono Indiana Lawyers for the Arts
Artists and small arts organizations seeking legal guidance can access free assistance through Pro Bono Indiana’s Lawyers for the Arts project. Support is available thanks to the Indiana Bar Foundation.
- Hours: Calls accepted Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. (Central Time)
- Contact: Call 812.402.6303
The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law
The Protecting and Advancing IDEA Pro Bono Initiative offers legal guidance for entities working to uphold racial diversity and inclusion efforts. Complete the intake form on their website to begin the process.
Local Resources
These resources can help Indiana residents and organizations stay informed and legally protected as they respond to policy changes.
- ACLU of Indiana Legislation and Advocacy Hub
- MadVoters IN State Bill Tracker
2. Navigating the Trump Administration’s New Executive Orders: Guidance for Diverse Communities
As new executive orders are issued by the Trump administration, many communities are seeking reliable resources to understand their rights and ensure their safety. Below are key tools and recommendations to help organizations and individuals navigate these changes effectively. By sharing these resources, communities can stay informed, protect their rights, and support one another in challenging times.
Know Your Rights Information and Resources
- Exodus Refugee Know Your Rights – Guidance on interacting with ICE.
- Red Cards / Tarjetas Rojas – The Immigrant Legal Resource Center’s (ILRC) Red Cards provide individuals with tools to assert their rights and navigate various situations.
- Family Resources: How to Respond to ICE – This resource outlines protocols for families to follow in the event of ICE activity in schools or nearby areas. It includes practical guidance for staying safe and is available in multiple languages.
- Know Your Rights Resources and Materials (iAmerica) – iAmerica provides a variety of resources, both printable and digital, to help individuals understand their rights and respond in different situations.
- Immigrant Rights (ACLU) – This resource offers general information on immigrant rights and provides a toolkit for responding to workplace raids.
Latina/o/e Community Resources
- Guidance to Nonprofits Regarding Immigration Enforcement (December 2024) – Lawyers Alliance for New York provides legal guidance.
- Exodus Refugee Legal Program – Legal support for immigrants and refugees.
- Rapid Assistance Security Initiative (RASI) – Neo Philanthropy – A national initiative offering grants and advisory support to strengthen security for nonprofits. Complete the intake form for assistance.
LGBTQ+ Community Resources
- Mashable: Resources for People Worried About President Trump’s Anti-LGBTQ Executive Orders – Information on rights and protections for the LGBTQ+ community.
- Indy Pride – Local resources and support for the LGBTQ+ community.
3. Using Your Nonprofit’s Voice: Navigating New Executive Orders
Recent executive orders from the Trump administration have introduced policy changes that may impact nonprofit organizations, including those in the arts sector. As nonprofits work to understand and respond to these developments, advocacy remains a crucial tool for protecting their missions and the communities they serve.
Nonprofit organizations can advocate and lobby for issues that align with their values while remaining compliant with legal guidelines. Below are resources to help your nonprofit navigate advocacy efforts in this shifting policy landscape. By staying informed and actively engaging in advocacy, nonprofits can ensure their voices are heard and their missions remain strong in the face of evolving federal policies.
Advocacy and Lobbying Guidelines for Nonprofits
- Advocacy is Year-Round: What You Can Do for the Arts
- Playing Your Part: Guide to Public Policy Advocacy
Current Issues and Actions for Arts Nonprofits
- Contact Congress in support of the NEA (National Endowment for the Arts)
Communicating the Importance of the Arts
Policy and Equity Resources for Nonprofits
- Executive Orders and Impacts: Comprehensive FAQ (Americans for the Arts)
- ABFE READI (Racial Equity Advancement and Defense Initiative)
- National Council of Nonprofits Executive Order Tracker – Stay updated on the latest federal policy changes affecting nonprofits.
- Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Guide to Recent Executive Orders – A breakdown of how the latest policies impact nonprofits nationwide.
- National Urban League: Demand Diversity Roundtable – Recording available on how nonprofits can respond to the administration’s stance on DEI policies.