I would check with your state's equivalent of the California Fair Political Practices Commission (http://www.fppc.ca.gov/).  They should be able to give you guidance.  Perhaps a disclaimer that hosting the event does not constitute an endorsement would suffice.

Teri Pope
Guide I
California State Capitol Museum
California State Parks
Sacramento, CA
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(916) 324-0333
 
-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Cindy Boyer
Sent: Monday, July 20, 2009 8:18 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [MUSEUM-L] Ethics Question

I would not do it. We don't have a guideline against this, but my concern would be as you mentioned - the perceived endorsement.  Think of all the grant applications that specifically say they will not support political campaign activities. I would be concerned potential grantors would not look kindly on this event.  

Perhaps if you were not new at holding functions, and already had the reputation as a site for parties, the community might more clearly understand that this type of event is a rental, and not your organization.

You are inspiring me to think about what should be in a rental policy. We don't do a lot of rentals - but what would I do if a group known for unsavory activities wanted to rent our site? 
 
Cindy Boyer
Director of Museums and Education
The Landmark Society of Western New York
133 S. Fitzhugh St.
Rochester NY  14608
(585) 546-7029 ext. 12
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The Landmark Society:  Revitalizing Yesterday, Protecting Today, and Planning for Tomorrow

www.landmarksociety.org
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-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Lauren Chyle
Sent: Monday, July 20, 2009 11:00 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Ethics Question

Our museum is trying to develop a new revenue stream, renting the
building to outside organizations for receptions for a fee. We have
had a wedding reception here and a few corporate parties. All events
must follow the same rules we follow when holding a reception in our
galleries.

A local politician has requested the use of our building for a
campaign event. He would pay a fee, just like any other member of the
public or corporation. But is there a perceived endorsement if his
event is here? Or would we be discriminating against him if we
disallow his use of the facility?

We do not have a formal written policy about the rental of the
building at this time.

Any feedback or information about how your museums have handled this
type of situation, or your museum's rental policies would be greatly
appreciated.

Thank you,

Lauren Chyle
Curator
Cayuga Museum of History and Art

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