Persuasion in a Polarized World: Navigating Politically Sensitive Issues with Tailored Messaging

Audience: Practitioner: Been around - looking to spark new ideas

Thursday, July 30, 2026

11:35 AM - 12:35 PM EDT

Location: Chesapeake F

Rick Roddam

Supervisor, Integrated Media Solutions
Allegiance Group + Pursuant
Megan Morris

Director, Integrated Media Solutions
Allegiance Group + Pursuant
Samantha Henry

Assistant Director, Annual Fund
Philabundance

As organizations are impacted by federal policy changes, nonprofits must be nimble — and smart — to adapt to shifting societal expectations, including evolving conversations around human rights and diversity, equity, and inclusion. This interactive session shows how targeted messaging, donor segmentation, and digital advertising can activate supporters and drive record-breaking results during urgent appeal and community response campaigns. Attendees will learn practical strategies to navigate politically sensitive issues while maintaining alignment with donor values and organizational missions.

This session is ideal for nonprofit leaders, digital marketers, advertising specialists, and development professionals looking to increase personalization, relevance, and impact with their messaging.

Learning Objectives:

How to segment your donor file to target the right audience with the right message at the right time
Strategies for crafting “hard” and “soft” appeals that align with political affiliation and donor values
How to launch digital ad campaigns that lower acquisition costs and increase donor engagement