by Loretta Seppanen, LWV Thurston County

This year, members of the LWV Thurston County hosted a session at the LWVWA Council. The session centered around a recording of a reader's theater performance of LWV Thurston's Untold Story Project and a facilitated discussion about the performance and the project's focus.

The Thurston League created the script for the Untold Story Project performance from the speech and commentary in the book The Untold Story of Women of Color in the League of Women Voters by Dr. Carolyn Jefferson-Jenkins—who served as the 15th President of LWVUS and Chair of the LWVUS Education Fund. The Untold Story Project brought to the stage the history of the League of Women Voters' systematic disregard for concerns of women of color.

The performance featured a narrator and a reader who weaved together six decades of US history with the words from Jefferson-Jenkins' book. Additional performers added the voices of Black and White women activists—including, suffrage campaigners Josephine St. Pierrer Ruffin and Belle Kearney; past League presidents Percy Maxim Lee and Ruth Philips; and contemporary Black activists Gloria Marquez and Marian Wright Edleman. The perspective of women of color in the League by mid-20th century media was presented by a male reader who joined the eight women performing on stage.

After the presentation of the Untold Story Project performance at the 2024 LWVWA Council, a thoughtful and forward-looking discussion was had. Some of the White participants expressed chagrin at the portions of League history covered in the project, and some of the participants of color share their uncertainties about the benefits of participation in the League. All of the participants affirmed the value of talking openly about the League's history. As one participant said, "We cannot undo the past. And if we do not study and acknowledge that past, we are destined to repeat it."

Participants also shared ways local Leagues had successfully connected with people of color, or how they could better connect with them, while recognizing a common commitment to civic education and voter participation. A prevalent theme was that local Leagues can weave their own activities with the work of local groups already representing communities of color. This collaboration strengthens the actions of the League as well as other groups. Local Latino coalitions, various Asian and Pacific Islander organizations, organizations for immigrants, tribal nations, and the Urban League and NAACP Chapters were some of the groups brought up who are actively doing work in the same areas as the League.

The Untold Story Project began a year ago, as members of LWV Thurston's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice Committee began to envision the project. Their work started by shaping a 20-minute script from Jefferson-Jenkins' book. The group also recognized that, while the Thurston League does have members of color, we needed to reach outside of our membership to really put the voice and vision of women of color at the front and center of this project. I feel privileged to have worked with sixteen other community members on this project—which includes the cast, the script writing group, and those who worked behind the scenes. The team included ten people of color, a majority of those involved with the project.

As a White woman, I volunteered to read one of the script's three White speakers. The other cast members were Michelle Gipson (our narrator), Kyrian MacMichael (our reader), Tanya Smith-Brice, Annie Cubberly, Charles Holloway, Brenda Paull, Sholanda Akins, and Jan Holloway. We especially appreciated Dawn Young's stage directing (Standing Room Only Theater in Yelm) and Lisa Sandall's visuals reflecting the League's history. LWV Thurston Board Member Nicole Miller facilitated the discussion at the live reader's theater production in February and at the Council session. I also appreciate the increased connection I feel to the diverse community where I live because of the opportunity to participate in this League activity.

UPDATED 9/19: LWVWA has also taken a position on I-2066, asking voters to vote NO. Learn more about this position.

The League of Women Voters of Washington is asking voters to vote NO on three Initiatives that will be on the ballot in November. These Initiatives include:

• I-2109—Repeal the capital gains excise tax;
• I-2117—Prohibit carbon tax credit trading and repeal provisions of the 2021 Washington Climate Commitment Act; and
• I-2124—Allow all employees and self-employed individuals to opt out of paying for and receiving benefits from the WA Cares Long-Term Care program.

By voting NO on these three Initiatives, you are voting to retain the programs these initiatives would affect.

Further information about these programs can be found below:

The Capital Gains Tax
This measure applies only to long-term capital assets with capital gains over $250,000. There are very few people in Washington State to whom this applies. The tax generates millions of dollars for education. The first $500 million supports the State's public education system; the remaining balance helps to fund school construction and maintenance. WA State is obligated, by the State's Constitution, to provide ample funding for education—this capital gains tax, collected from a very small number of people, helps to ensure the state can meet this obligation.

The League's position on this capital gains tax stems from its support for public education and for creating a more equitable tax structure. For more information, or to identify a speaker on this topic, contact Cynthia Stewart, LWVWA Revenue Issue Chair.

The Climate Commitment Act (CCA)
The CCA is a very complex law that helps Washington State respond to the climate crisis. It enables WA to generate funding for increasing energy efficiency, reducing pollution, restoring the environment, creating programs that provide environmental justice in marginalized communities, and repairing certain transportation infrastructures. It generates this funding through a system of auctioning allowances for carbon emissions while reducing the level of allowable emissions over time.

The League's position on this comes from extensive climate-related policies, including consistency with the best available climate science, reducing emissions, addressing the long-term impacts of climate change on public health, accelerating the shift to cleaner, more energy-efficient sources, and more. For more information or to identify a speaker on this topic, contact Martin Gibbons, LWVWA Climate Crisis Issue Chair.

The WA Cares Act
This program allows employees to receive long-term care services through deposits of employee payroll taxes over a period of time, which are then invested for future use. The program was initiated because so many people cannot afford private long-term care services, even though over 70% of the population eventually needs them. If many people drop out of this program, it could not accrue enough future funds through investment gains to provide the long-term care services when they are needed. This would cost taxpayers more in the future through increased personal and Medicaid expenses.

The League's support for this program comes from its position that total health care system expenditures should be controlled, and universal access to affordable health services—with seamless coverage regardless of one's health status—should be provided. For more information or to identify a speaker on this topic, contact Cynthia Stewart, LWVWA Revenue Chair or Karen Tvedt, LWVWA Elder Care Study Leader.

The LWVWA Environment Affinity Group will hold a one-hour webinar on Thursday, July 11 at 7:00 PM to discuss forest management on public lands in Washington State. Attendees are asked to register for the webinar here.

The webinar aims to educate League members, at the public, on forests management so policy can be evaluated for the protection of mature forests. Dr. Paula Swedeen, Senior Policy Director at Conservation Northwest, will be the speaker. Dr. Swedeen will also talk about the work of Conservation Northwest and answer questions from the audience.

Dr. Swedeen's work at Conservation Northwest spans beyond her role as Senior Policy Director and also includes serving as the organization's point person at the WA State Capitol; directing their State Forest Lands and Cascades to Olympics conservation programs; and working on the recovery of marbled murrelets and wolves. Dr. Swedeen also serves on WA State's Wolf Advisory Group.

The LWVWA has resolved to protect mature forests on public lands in Washington, based on positions from the LWVWA Program in Action 2021-2023 (pg. 32-33).Conservation Northwest was founded in Bellingham, Washington in 1998 to conserve local wildlands and wildlife. Their mission is to protect, connect, and restore wildlands and wildlife from the Washington Coast to the British Columbian Rockies. The organization works closely with the WA State Department of Natural Resources, WA State Department of Fish and Wildlife, forestry companies, and other organizations to promote ecological management and resilience on state forest lands, including State Trust Lands.

Dr. Paula Swedeen, Ph.D, has worked on habitat conservation issues around the Pacific Northwest for 24 years, and even previously served on Conservation Northwest's Board in the early 90's. She worked for 12 years as a wildlife biologist and endangered species policy analyst with the WA Department of Fish and Wildlife and the WA Department of Natural Resources. Her recent work involves creating markets and ecosystem service payments to incentivize better habitat conditions on private lands where regulatory reach is limited. Dr. Swedeen has a B.S. in Biology from Indiana University, Masters degrees in Environmental Studies and Political Science from Western Washington University, and a Ph.D in Interdisciplinary Studies, with an emphasis on Ecological Economics, from the Union Institute.

By JPT, B-Toons Artist

There is no error of circumstance, no drug, and certainly no trauma that could ever change a person's first and most permanent identity: human. Yet, people experiencing homelessness in Burien have had their dignity stripped away to such an extent that a casual observer might think that they were mere insects under Burien's leather boot.  It was therefore my great pleasure to interview and share the stories of people trapped in Burien's homeless-hostile landscape in an endeavor to remind readers of the B-Town Blog that they are and will always be human. Human, and owed all the basic dignity inherent to the condition, no matter how much money they make. 
 
I hope that the simple things—food, water, and shelter do not evade less-fortunate Burienites any longer. 

These experiences and interviews come from the perspective of those in Burien, but the related issues of high housing costs  and homelessness are a significant problem throughout the state of Washington. Learn more about the LWVWA's work on the issues of housing and homelessness here.

By Shelley Kneip, LWVWA Director

On May 20, the LWVWA sponsored a public forum to hear from candidates seeking election to the office of State Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). The forum was held at Ridgeline High School in Liberty Lake, and candidates answered questions posed by the area's high school students.

The three candidates in attendance were David Olson, Chris Reykdal and Reid Saaris—the fourth candidate, John Patterson Blair, could not attend the forum. Central Valley School District graciously provided the new Ridgeline High School auditorium as the venue for the forum and Dr. John Parker, Superintendent of Central Valley School District offered invaluable assistance. The OSPI Candidate Forum was broadcast and recorded by TVW. Members from the LWV of the Spokane Area also provided volunteer assistance for the forum.

As we know, high school students are our future votes, and many students work closely with civics teachers in their senior year to learn how our government works. Teachers encourage students to be informed voters, to understand issues, and to learn more about candidates for office. The LWVWA aims to encourage future voters—especially 17-year-olds who are eligible to vote in the August primaries. The OSPI Candidate Forum provided an incredibly hands-on civics education opportunity for six future voters from Central Valley School District.

The League worked with Brittney Bergman, a civics teach at Ridgeline High School (who is also the school's Civics Bowl Coach and Junior States of America Club Advisor) and some of the students from the area's local high schools. These students included: Jason Cloward, Spokane Valley Tech; Hailee Elkins, Mica Peak High School; Lucy He, Central Valley High School; Gracie Newell and Vivian Van Buren, Ridgeline High School; and Everett Stinson, University High School.

The students studied the requirements for the office of State Superintendent of Public Instruction and developed questions for the candidates. The forum was moderated by Renee Radcliff Sinclair, president and CEO of TVW, who called on the students to present their questions to the candidates. The public was also able to submit questions in advance.

Make sure you watch the recording of the OSPI Candidate Forum to see these high school students in action. We know you'll be impressed by these future voters! Our readers are encouraged to share the TVW recording with voters who have not yet seen the forum. Readers can also find more information about the forum and candidates in this piece published in The Spokesman Review.

The LWVWA will be holding another forum for the primary candidates for WA Attorney General. The forum will be held at WSU's Tri-Cities campus in Richland on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at 6:30 PM. The forum is open to the public, but seating is limited. Northwest Public Broadcasting will record and air the forum.

The public is invited to submit questions for the candidates here.

By Sarah Philips, LWV Seattle/King County

The Board of the League of Women Voters of Washington voted to OPPOSE Initiative 2117. 

The League of Women Voters—at all its levels—is a nonpartisan organization that does not support candidates or political parties. The League is not apolitical though, and does take positions on Initiatives and referendums at times.

Taking a position to vote NO on Initiative 2117 aligns with the League's state and national positions, as well as our long standing policy positions on climate change.

Initiative 2117 proposes to prohibit enforcing the Climate Commitment Act (CCA).

The CCA was passed by the Washington State Legislature in 2021. The CCA program, effective beginning in 2023, is aimed at reducing the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that are warming the planet. This Act generated significant funding for statewide and local efforts to reduce GHG emissions and assist frontline communities to reduce the impact of historic emissions as well as to fund projects that protect our water and air quality.

The CCA raises funds through the sale of pollution credits. The total amount of credits (and thus, allowable emissions) are reduced every year. The law requires the money raised from the sale of credits be invested to reduce emissions and create jobs. In 2023, the sale of pollution credits raised $2.2 billion. These funds are being invested in GHG reduction by reducing the state's dependence on fossil fuels in transportation, buildings, and power generation.

By Ann Aagaard, former LWVWA Shorline/Landuse/Wetlands Chair

The WA Department of Ecology is beginning the rule-making process to amend the Shoreline Management Act Guidelines. This process aims, not only to make amendments, but also to update and add clarity around the act's procedures and approvals. It will also add requirements for local governments to address the impact of sea level rise and increased storm severity on people, property, and shoreline natural resources and environment.

You can find more information on the Department of Ecology rule-making and its timeline here.

Find the League of Women Voters of Washington's 2022 study "Shoreline Management Act at 50+ Years. Shorelines Study" here.

To sign up for notifications about this project, contact Rebecca Rothwell, at the WA Department of Ecology.

For any further questions, please contact Ann Aagaard.

By Susan Daniel, LWVWA Director

When reflecting on your estate plan, consider how it can serve as an opportunity to extend your impact beyond your lifetime. Of course, providing for loved ones is a primary concern, but including the League of Women Voters of Washington in your estate planning can also be a rewarding and transformative impact. Here are a few reasons why:

• Fulfilling your Values—including the League in your estate plan allows you to align your financial legacy with your values and beliefs. Your gift helps us continue our important work, ensuring you and your values continue to make a difference beyond your lifetime.
• Creating Lasting Impacts—The LWVWA plays a crucial role in protecting democracy and empowering voters. When you include the League in your estate giving, you contribute to the sustainability and growth of work that resonates with you. Your contribution could fund candidate debates, community forums, get out the vote efforts, civics education and other voter resources to your community, or to underserved communities.
  
• Leaving a Meaningful Legacy —Your estate plan is more than just a financial document; it's a reflection of your life's work and the values you hold dear. When you include the League in your plan, you are leaving a meaningful legacy that reflects your passions and priorities. Your generosity can inspire future generations and serve as a testament to the positive impact individuals can have on the world.
• Tax Benefits—Incorporating the League of Women Voters of Washington Education Fund into your estate plan can also offer significant tax benefits. Charitable bequests are typically deductible from the value of your estate, potentially reducing estate taxes and providing additional resources for your chosen causes. By strategically planning your charitable giving, you can maximize the impact of your estate while minimizing tax liabilities.

When you name the LWVWA or LWVWA Education Fund to receive a gift through your estate, you play a personal role in protecting democracy’s future. Learn more about legacy giving at our website.

At the LWVWA's 2023 Convention a new education project was approved, one focused on Multi-Member Districts. The project's Education Group, with Washington for Equitable Representation (WER), presented during Democracy Lobby Week. The group is now working to make program presentations to local Leagues and other groups around the state.

You can help by:

• Sending us comments and/or questions
• Joining our project working group
• Invite us to meet with your local League! We can do presentations either in-person or over Zoom, and will look at the way our current electoral systems silently shape the way politics work and how we can improve it.
  

Look for the Multi-Member Districts Education Project at the LWVWA Council in June!

Contact the Multi-Member Districts Education Project at MMD@LWVWA.org.

The LWVWA, together with our host Leagues, the LWV Thurston County and LWV Mason County, cordially invite you to beautiful Lacey, Washington, for our 2024 Council. This year's theme is "ignite the Vote" and Council will organize around how the League can get folks excited and prepared for the 2024 elections. Council will be held on June 1 and 2, with optional activities on Friday, May 31. It will be held at the South Puget Sound Community College's Lacey Campus. 

Registration

Registration is now open! Early bird registration continues at a discounted price until May 5. There are both in-person and virtual options available. In-person registration includes lunch, happy hour, a buffet dinner on Saturday, and a continental breakfast on Sunday. Coffee, tea, water, and other beverages will also be provided.  

Schedule

There are several engaging activities planned over the weekend! League-specific activities include caucuses, workshops, and plenaries throughout the weekend. There will also be plenty of opportunities to socialize via shared meals, a complementary happy hour, and a walking tour of the Capitol Campus.  

Lodging

There are two hotels within an easy 6-minute walk from the Council venue:

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lacey—we have a block of 15 rooms with 2 queen beds reserved for a discounted group price. See our Council website for more information and booking instructions.   
  
  
• Candlewood Suites Olympia/Lacey—while we have not reserved a block of rooms, if you prefer to make your own meals, you may prefer staying at this hotel, as their rooms have fully furnished in-room kitchens.

Homestays are also available, though limited in number. Priority will be given to those with financial need. Contact Darlene Hein for more information.  

We Want YOU to Help Shape Council

We invite local Leagues, committees, and other groups to set up (and staff) display tables for Council attendees so folks can learn more about your work!  

We are also seeking folks interested in holding a caucus on topics of their choice! Caucuses are informal gatherings outside of the regular business meeting times (after the evening program). They may encompass a wide range of topics, from resource/knowledge sharing about the League’s work to generating interest in a new taskforce, committee, or toolkit.  

For more information about caucusing/tabling, or to request a caucus or a table, see our Council website.