Areas of Support

The Defending Equity Initiative provides pro bono legal support to nonprofit organizations that are being targeted for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and other core progressive values.

Whether you're facing politically motivated audits, IRS scrutiny, threats of litigation, or direct intimidation of your staff, we’re here to defend your work and help you respond with strength and clarity.

Pro Bono Legal Services

We provide legal support to 501(c)(3) organizations experiencing:

• IRS or state audits, inquiries, or adverse determinations

• Lawsuits or threats from private actors aimed at chilling advocacy

• Challenges to DEI programs, whether internal (e.g., hiring, fellowships) or external (e.g., grantmaking)

• Attacks from Congressional committees or public officials

• Immigration enforcement actions affecting staff or participants

• Harassment or threats to staff due to their work

Our legal support is grounded in movement values—responsive, strategic, and protective of your mission and your people.

*Note: While we are actively building our volunteer network, capacity is limited and support is subject to availability, but we’re committed to doing everything we can to help or connect you to someone who can.