5/23/2019 League 101 Everything you 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.” 5/23/2019

A rich history of volunteerism LWVUS - founded in 1920 LWVOR - founded in 1924 Over 700 local and state Leagues in all 50 states and the District of Columbia 1200 members in Oregon 12 Local Leagues and 3 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. 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 5/23/2019

Men have been welcome since 1973! Men have been allowed to become members and join the leadership of the League since the 70’s! In fact our current LWVOR President, Norman was the first male board member for the national league and the first male state League president. 5/23/2019

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 Our voter service activities notify communities of important voting information: 5/23/2019

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 5/23/2019

5/23/2019 LWV is also political LWVOR takes positions and lobbies on selected governmental issues after members have studied the issues and reached consensus. While our nonpartisan reputation is important to us, LWV is also political 5/23/2019

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 5/23/2019

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 5/23/2019

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 5/23/2019

As a knowledgeable League member, you can make a difference! 5/23/2019 As a knowledgeable League member, you can make a difference! Do As Much Or As Little As You Want, But Remember … Democracy is Not a Spectator Sport! 5/23/2019