In Star Trek, a “mind meld” is a kind of telepathic touch that enables the rapid sharing of knowledge and experience. Unfortunately for (at least most of) us, we are neither telepathic nor within touching distance of each other, so we have created a MELD Network* to provide a mechanism to better share tools, methods, practices, and accomplishments across the state with each other. 

The “League Mind MELD” column is a way to share even more information to all our members across the state. Starting this month, this column will run monthly and will include the responses we receive to the questions posed at the end of the previous month’s column.  

The Leagues in Washington are increasingly aware that the work they do supports our DEI (Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion) policy, and it is important to recognize these activities! In MELD pod meetings, we’ve heard about local Leagues advertising in a bilingual newsletter, translating information on ballot issues, and co-hosting events with underrepresented populations. 
 
A recent example of this work was a program hosted by LWV Thurston County on February 24, 2024. The program, called "Confronting a Racist Past & Creating a Future Where All Women Belong," featured portions of the book The Untold Story of Women of Color and the League of Women Voters by Carolyn Jefferson-Jenkins, LWVUS President 1998-2002.  
 
Sharing resources and ideas about how to further the League's DEI work is just one example of the value of our MELD network. We know there are more—and we want to hear them! 
 
Questions for this month:  How do you respond when someone asks you, “What does the League do?” or “How is the League different from other nonpartisan groups?” Email examples and replies to the questions to MELD Portfolio Director Nancy Halvorson by April 1.  

*In the context of the League, MELD actually has zero connection to Star Trek; it is an acronym for Membership, Engagement, Leadership, and Development. MELD pods meet each month to serve as platforms for sharing successes, addressing challenges, and exchanging ideas among local Leagues. 

Are you interested in learning more about MELD? Talk to your Local League Leadership about becoming involved in MELD.