The Art of Micro-Advocacy: Small Actions That Drive Big Change

Dear Nonprofits & Professionals,

In a world where systemic change can feel overwhelming and institutional, advocacy often moves at a glacial pace, but there's a powerful form of activism happening in the everyday moments of our workplaces, friend groups, and families. It's called micro-advocacy, which might be the most accessible and meaningful way to create lasting change.

Understanding Micro-Advocacy

Micro-advocacy is the practice of standing with and for marginalized individuals and groups through small, intentional actions. Unlike traditional workplace advocacy or DEI initiatives that often focus on broad demographic groups through formal programs, micro-advocacy is deeply personal. It's about supporting the specific people who matter to you in ways that are both manageable and impactful.

This approach to advocacy appeals to me because it doesn't require a corner office or a substantial budget—just genuine care and intentionality. It's activism that anyone can practice, regardless of their position or level of influence.

The Power of Small Changes

I learned firsthand about the impact of micro-advocacy while working with a theatre company. During audition season, I noticed that many actors used different pronouns or identified in ways that weren't immediately apparent, particularly when auditioning for roles that might not align with their presentation. The audition process, already vulnerable and high-stakes, became even more challenging when panel members inadvertently misgendered performers.

The solution was surprisingly simple: I modified our audition forms to include fields for preferred pronouns and relevant identity information. This small administrative change ensured that our panel could address each person correctly from their first interaction with us. While it took only minutes to implement, the impact was profound. The actors noticed immediately, and it established a tone of respect and inclusion that rippled through our entire organization.

Everyone Has Influence

One of the most common barriers to advocacy is the belief that individual actions don't matter—that real change requires significant authority or resources. This couldn't be further from the truth. Some of the most effective advocacy happens through simple, everyday actions that anyone can take.

Consider the impact of adding pronouns to your email signature. This seemingly small gesture often creates a ripple effect throughout an organization, with colleagues following suit and gradually normalizing pronoun sharing. It's a perfect example of how micro-advocacy works: one person's small action creates permission and momentum for others to follow.

The key is to remember that the worst response you'll encounter is "no." You can always suggest improvements, share your perspective with colleagues, or propose changes to supervisors. When people are ready and willing to create positive change, they'll engage with your ideas and seek your input. Your voice and experience matter more than your job title.

Organizational Support Without Performativity

While micro-advocacy is inherently personal and grassroots, organizations play a crucial role in supporting (not co-opting) these efforts. When leadership notices changes like employees adding pronouns to email signatures, it should spark deeper reflection about the organization's actual commitment to marginalized communities.

The real test comes in examining substantive support: Does the organization regularly engage with the LGBTQIA+ community? Are gender-neutral bathroom options available? Does the company participate in events like Pride or maintain membership in local LGBTQIA+ business councils? Most importantly, does it provide comprehensive training on LGBTQIA+ issues and advocacy best practices?

These deeper commitments demonstrate to LGBTQIA+ employees that the organization's support extends beyond surface-level gestures. They show genuine care for creating safe and welcoming spaces rather than just performing allyship.

Starting Your Micro-Advocacy Practice

If you're ready to begin your micro-advocacy practice, here are three foundational habits that every employee can implement immediately:

First, add your pronouns to your email signature. This simple step normalizes pronoun sharing and contributes to more inclusive communication across your organization. Second, commit to addressing microaggressions when you witness them. Speaking up in the moment—even about seemingly small incidents—helps create accountability and demonstrates that harmful behavior won't be tolerated. Finally, take responsibility for your education about LGBTQIA+ issues and advocate for organizational training and awareness initiatives.

The Ripple Effect

Micro-advocacy works because it recognizes that meaningful change often begins with individual actions that inspire others. When we stand up for the people who matter to us in small but consistent ways, we create permission for others to do the same. These actions compound, creating cultures of inclusion that extend far beyond any single intervention.

The beauty of micro-advocacy lies in its accessibility. It doesn't require waiting for institutional change or organizational approval. It simply requires us to see the people around us, recognize their humanity, and take small actions to support their dignity and belonging. In a world that often feels too big and too broken to fix, micro-advocacy reminds us that we all have the power to make a difference—one small action at a time.

Sincerely,

Queers

About the Guest Writer

Maggie Schutzler (she/her) is a nonprofit professional and educational leader based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Her work bridges strategic fundraising, community engagement, and inclusive program development-encompassing educational initiatives, donor cultivation, and organizational transformation. Drawing from her background in both education and nonprofit management, Maggie approaches relationship-building and storytelling as tools for authentic connection and community empowerment. She holds graduate degrees in Education from DeSales University and Theatre/Nonprofit Management from Villanova University, and currently serves as Mentorship Program Committee Chair with AFP of the Greater Lehigh Valley.

Learn more about Maggie <here>

About Queer For Hire

Queer For Hire provides fundraising support to Queer nonprofits, LGBTQIA+ cultural competency to straight-led organizations and corporations, and individual coaching for Queer professionals.

Learn about our Fundraising Services <here> – we’ll lead or support your fundraising efforts, whether you need general support or want to focus on raising money from and for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Learn about our Fundraising Trainings <here> – we can coach your board, staff, and fundraising team on how to fundraise and how to engage LGBTQIA+ donors.

Learn about our other services <here> or our resources <here>.