Southern Vision Alliance Condemns H.R. 9495: A Grave Threat to Nonprofit Independence and Democracy

by | Nov 20, 2024 | Call to Action, Featured Post, Statement

Southern Vision Alliance (SVA) unequivocally condemns H.R. 9495, a draconian and dangerous piece of legislation that threatens the very foundation of civil society. This bill hands unchecked power to the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, allowing a single official to arbitrarily label nonprofits as “terrorist supporting organizations” without evidence, transparency, or accountability.

This is not just bad policy—it is a direct assault on democracy, weaponizing fear to silence nonprofits that challenge systemic injustice. By stripping away due process and placing the burden of proof on accused organizations, H.R. 9495 endangers the livelihoods of thousands of community-driven entities that work tirelessly to serve marginalized populations, advance equity, and fight for justice.

We refuse to accept legislation that creates a tool of political repression, undermining the core values of fairness, freedom, and justice. With only 90 days to prove their innocence, accused nonprofits would face an impossible task. This would be especially challenging for small, grassroots organizations that are already stretched thin. This bill does not safeguard against terrorism—it creates a chilling effect, intimidating advocates and organizations that dare to stand against entrenched systems of power.

H.R. 9495 is not about national security; it is about control. It hands the Executive Branch sweeping powers that could be used to target dissenting voices and stifle movement-building efforts. Such an overreach is a betrayal of democratic principles and a blatant violation of the responsibility government institutions have to act in the public interest.

Here’s how you can fight back:

Sign the Petition NOW
Add your name to our petition opposing H.R. 9495. Show Congress that the people will not tolerate this blatant attack on civil society.

Call Your Representative TODAY
Dial your Congressional Representative and demand that they vote NO on H.R. 9495. This bill is an affront to fairness, freedom, and justice, and your voice can make a difference. Find your representative’s contact information here. Don’t hold back—let them know that nonprofits will not be silenced.

Raise Your Voice on Social Media
Use your social media platforms to call out your Representative. Tag them and demand their opposition to this dangerous bill. Amplify the message with hashtags like #NoToHR9495, #ProtectNonprofits, and #HandsOffOurMovements.

Support Frontline Justice Work
Southern Vision Alliance is proud to sponsor projects on the frontlines of justice, building power and creating change in communities most impacted by systemic inequities. Your support enables us to continue providing the resources and infrastructure these movements need to thrive. Support our sponsored projects today and stand with us as we fight to protect this vital work. Together, we can ensure justice prevails.

Lastly, join SVA and our network for a mass call to prepare for Trump’s first 100 days. Harmful legislation is coming—let’s organize now.  REGISTER HERE.

H.R. 9495 isn’t just bad policy—it’s a tool for repression. This bill threatens to erode the power of nonprofits to challenge injustice, serve vulnerable communities, and fight for equity. We refuse to let Congress undermine the work of organizations like ours, and we need your help to ensure they don’t succeed.

Together, we can stop this dangerous legislation. ACT NOW!

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