August 1 is an important day for Leagues of Women Voters across Washington. It's the last day of voting and the League is all about voting because this is how we participate in our representative democracy.

The League's Voter Services volunteers are working in communities at farmer's markets and other places educating voters about the "how-tos" of voting—never the how to—walking voters through the ballot; reminding them they can register right up to the day of if needed; calling VOTE411 to their attention so they can get candidates' view in their own words; holding candidate events. We do this because we believe casting an informed ballot is critical to democracy and that—for all its imperfections, it's the best system of government to date. Democracy doesn't operate on automatic. It needs attention. That's why League volunteers are out talking to voters.

The news media tells us—and we likely know from personal experience—that we are living in hyper partisan times. League's nonpartisan policy helps guide us as an organization through the sticky wickets that can arise as we carry out our service to voters. The Member Policy reminds us that respectful discourse is essential to engaging voters in the critical business of voting. Our candidate forums are a place where strong views may be particularly noticed.  

The Member Policy also calls us to create a safe space for the discourse essential to democracy. Imagine, if you will, Leagues across the country taking note and reminding themselves, attendees, and candidates that here is a safe place to practice the fundamentals of democracy. What an amazing antidote to some of the mis- and disinformation that circulates on social media and elsewhere.  

I thank all our amazing volunteers who are out there talking to voters in whatever format or space you find yourself. Democracy thanks you too! 

Mary Coltrane, LWVWA President