Resisting Threats to Democracy — Defending a Democracy Under Siege 


Updates and Actions for Members
League members have asked for guidance related to the various national threats to democracy. This webpage will be regularly updated with resources and guidance for local Leagues. 

The Resisting Threats to Democracy Newsletter
The Resisting Threats to Democracy newsletter is distributed every other Thursday to active League members. Active members are already subscribed, but we recognize that technical issues do occur. If you are consistently not receiving the newsletter, please email info@lwvwa.org. Members can read all of the previous issues in our newsletter archive below. An external version of the newsletter is also available for non-League members — encourage your friends and family members to subscribe.

Members Newsletter Archive

**NOTE: The Resisting Threats to Democracy newsletter will not be published during WA's legislative session (Jan-April)

Defending a Democracy Under Siege
At the LWV national convention in 2026, delegates approved a 2026-2028 Program titled ”Defending a Democracy Under Siege” to empower the organization to act decisively to protect and defend our democracy. The campaign will focus on Voting Rights, Election Protection, Redistricting, Individual Liberties, Immigration, and The Presidency.

  • Voting Rights: Ensuring that every eligible voter has equitable access to register, vote, and have their ballot counted fairly and accurately. See the LWVWA’s 2026 Legislative Issue re: Making Democracy Work - 2026 Democracy Issues. 

  • Protecting Elections: Protecting and empowering voters to ensure that our elections are fair, accessible, and representative of all Americans. See the LWVWA’s 2026 Legislative Issue re: Making Democracy Work - 2026 Democracy Issues.

  • Redistricting: Ensuring fair and equitable representation for all residents through transparent and accountable redistricting processes and protection of the US Census. See the LWVWA’s 2026 Legislative Issue re: 2026 Redistricting. 

  • Immigration: Advocating for a fair immigration process and a path to citizenship. Standing up for immigrant communities to ensure they receive fair treatment under the law and encouraging new citizens' participation in our democracy. See LWVWA’s 2026 Legislative Issue re: 2026 Immigrants. 

  • Individual Rights: Protecting and defending the rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution and preventing attacks that undermine those fundamental freedoms. See Position on Citizen’s Right to Know/Citizen Participation - League of Women Voters of California. 

  • The Presidency: Working to guarantee that presidential power is exercised within the constitutional framework of a dynamic balance between the three branches of government (checks and balances). Supporting the Abolition of the Electoral College, including the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. 

Democracy Power Up Recordings

Resisting Threats to Democracy Town Hall
On March 25, the LWVWA held a RTD town hall for members to review successes and the RTD strategy moving forward.

The RTD town hall included word clouds where members answered three questions: 1. What could the League continue doing? 2. What are top concerns? 3. What is something new the League could do? Below are the word clouds showing responses:

INTRO VIDEO: Media and News Literacy
Watch the eight-minute intro video and discover:

  • Why journalism is important and how it works
  • Different ways information is delivered and how that can influence our perception of the message
  • What is media and news literacy and why we need it
We recommend you view this video before viewing the Media & News Literacy educational workshops.

View Video


Techniques Used to Sway Opinion (Media & News Literacy Workshop

Making Sense of Information (Media & News Literacy Workshop)

    The Power of Critical Thinking (Media & News Literacy Workshop)

    Crafting a Winning Letter to the Editor

    Making Sense of Information
    The content on slide 45 in both presentation and the recording was changed slightly from what was presented during the live workshop to reflect what we learned from participants.

      Get to Know Artificial Intelligence (AI) (Presented Feb. 24, 2026)

      Constitutional Crisis Information and Resources
      For those who missed the LWVUS statement on the current constitutional crisis in April, read the press release. 

      The LWVUS also has videos for local leagues to share on Facebook and Instagram. 

      There is also a series of short videos produced by the LWV of Bellingham/Whatcom County on the constitutional concerns of this administration. Take a look at their videos:

      *PLEASE NOTE: This is about policies, not candidates, political parties, or specific officials per se. We need to be conscientious about calling out the policies with which we differ and not name the President. 

      Unite and Rise 8.5 Resources
      On May 1, 2025, LWVUS launched the Unite & Rise 8.5 initiative, which aims to mobilize 8.5 million voters using the power of voter engagement as a cornerstone of our democracy. Unite and Rise 8.5 showcases the many ways we can drive change through advocacy, mobilization, civic education, and engagement. The Unite and Rise initiative will run through the 2026 midterm elections and is part of the League's Women Defend Democracy campaign. 

      Unite and Rise 8.5 Toolkit
      The LWVUS Unite and Rise 8.5 Toolkit houses background and resources for Leagues to engage in the initiative to build an anti-authoritarian movement. 

      Find the Toolkit

      Unite and Rise Power Playbooks
      The Power Playbooks include timely activities for Leagues to participate in Unite & Rise 8.5. These activities are focused on current or emerging events and what Leagues can do to respond.

      Find the Current Playbook

      Find all of the playbooks: 

      Remaining Safe and Nonpartisan During Protests
      If you choose to use your voice by protesting, please learn more about how you can be involved as a League leader and stay safe!

      Oct. 17 No Kings Rallies
      The League is a partner for No Kings, so at the rallies please: 

      • DO support the League's mission, table at your local event, and wear League shirts and/or League buttons. You may also put the League logo on your signs.

      • When tabling, promoting the rally, discussing the issues, or in your signage DO NOT mention individual names or specify political parties. 

      Sign Design Guidance
      Below are suggestions for creating effective rally       signs—feel free to modify the sign templates from LWV Snohomish County:

      • Use a maximum of 5-7 words for readability.

      • Use high contrasting colors (like black on neon or red on white).

      • Use large letters—make them 3-4 inches tall if possible.

      • Add simple symbols to your signs (such as the "No Kings" crossed-crown, the Statue of Liberty, or the Constitution).

      Remaining Safe at Protests
      The LWVUS has guidance for League members attending a protest, rally, or other demonstration. Check out their Protest Safety Guidance. The ACLU also has a clear explanation of what protesters' rights. The webpage also walks folks through what rights you have      —and requirements you must meet—when organizing or attending a protest; when filming/taking photos during a protest; if you're stopped by the police at a protest; and a tool kit to easily share protesting rights on social media. 

      Remaining Nonpartisan During Protests and Other Defending Democracy Work
      Taking action and being clear about the threats facing US democracy IS in line with the League's nonpartisan policies. Find more resources on this below:

      Stay tuned for future updates!

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