Everything you always wanted to know about the League LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS® OF OREGON LEAGUE 101 Everything you always wanted to know about the League … but were afraid to ask

Who we are A grassroots nonpartisan political organization that . . . “envisions informed citizens participating in a fully accessible, responsive, and transparent government to achieve the common good.”

A rich history of volunteerism LWVUS - founded in 1920 LWVOR - founded in 1924 850 local and state Leagues in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, with more than 150,000 members and supporters 1300 members in Oregon 14 Local Leagues and 2 Members at Large Units A true grassroots organization LWVUS - founded in 1920 by Carrie Chapman Catt shortly before the Women’s Suffrage Amendment was ratified, to help newly enfranchised women become politically educated, responsible voting citizens. We are celebrating the 90th anniversary of the League this year. Over the years, the League has opened a door to intellectual activity and involvement in political life Local politicians began seeing women as capable of serving on local boards League has studied many issues and been active in calling for changes and reforms Has served as a training ground for community leaders Is determined to be a pertinent and meaningful voice in local governance

Men have been welcome since 1973!

How do we help voters? Voters’ Guides Websites: www.lwvor.org and www.VoteSource.org Video Voters’ Guide Candidate forums and debates Ballot measure forums Voter registration Should be Voters’ Guide – need apostrophe Also, add VoteSource.org, as I think that for this election we may still be using both.

How do we educate ourselves and the public? Monthly unit meetings In-depth studies on relevant issues Observer Corps Issues forums Panels and small group discussions Student Mock Election program

Although we are nonpartisan, we do take a stand on issues. More on League positions later in the presentation

How does the League move from study to action? Thorough study Balanced report 3. Consensus process 4. Statement of position 5. Action based on position

How do we take action? Testimony at public hearings Legislative lobbying Calls or letters to officials Press releases, op-eds, letters to editor Informational material, Legislative Report Advocacy forums Action alerts via email or social media

The League empowers its members. Voting Rights Campaign Finance Reform Civil Liberties Election Reform Good Schools Affordable Housing Transportation Corrections Health Care Land Use Clean Air and Water Public Parks Energy Conservation Climate Change

As a knowledgeable League member, you can make a difference! Democracy is not a spectator sport!