Advocacy group
An organization that seeks to influence public policy, institutions, or public opinion in support of a particular cause or interest.
Lobbying: Efforts to influence public officials’ decisions, often through direct communication with policymakers. Direct lobbying is one way groups press officials to adopt or reject specific policies.
Interest group: An organized group that seeks to influence public policy on behalf of shared interests. Advocacy groups are a cause-oriented part of the broader interest-group landscape.
Political party: An organization that seeks to gain and exercise political power, usually by contesting elections. Unlike most advocacy groups, parties nominate candidates and seek to govern.
Environmental advocacy: Organized efforts to influence policy and public behavior on environmental issues. Environmental organizations use advocacy to seek protections for ecosystems and climate.
Civil Rights Act of 1964: A US federal law prohibiting discrimination in public accommodations, employment, and several other settings. Decades of civil rights organizing helped build pressure for this landmark legislation.
Grassroots campaign: An organized effort that mobilizes people in a community to influence public decisions. Groups use local participation to demonstrate public support and pressure institutions.
Collective action problem: A situation in which individuals can benefit from a shared outcome without contributing to its achievement. Groups must overcome free riding to mobilize supporters and maintain campaigns.
Think tank: An organization that conducts research and develops ideas on public policy. Think tanks primarily produce policy analysis, though some also engage in advocacy.
Consumer advocacy: Efforts to protect consumers’ interests through information, policy, and institutional change. Consumer groups press for safer products, fair practices, and stronger protections.
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990: A US federal law prohibiting disability discrimination and requiring accessibility in many settings. Disability advocacy helped secure a legal framework for access and equal participation.