The League of Women Voters of the United States recently posted its newly developed Member Rights and Responsibilities on its website.  

National League has done a lot to ensure that all across the United States who are members of their Local, State and National League have a path to become active members and League leaders - to the extent that our lives and interest allows. But what does it mean to be a League member? The League of Women Voters is exceptional in member organizations because it is members who power the organization. This means members have a lot of responsibility in how the League is perceived in communities across America. The Member Rights and Responsibilities points to maximizing this impressive association of our Leagues of Women Voters.  

Member rights include membership at all levels of League. Members can join any League they wish. They can participate in League events and activities such as annual meetings and state and national conventions. They elect their local, state, and national leaders according to their bylaws, and they can run for League leadership. Perhaps most importantly members are entitled to full participation in the League of Women Voters without barriers—as stated in local and state diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies or national League's DEI policy. This is democracy in action.  

Members also have a responsibility to ensure a safe environment for collaboration. They are called to do this by abiding by the rules of their local and state Leagues, and the national League. This includes respectful discourse for online activity as well as in-person events. League is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all, particularly for members of historically marginalized groups.  And League's nonpartisan policy is a key area of interest and a strength in partisan times that members should take note of.  

The Member Policy includes much more. It sets a welcoming framework for new and continuing members alike. As a democratic organization that relies on member participation to function well, this policy will assist all Leagues to grow and prosper.  

Kind regards,

Mary Coltrane