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. This column will run each month and will include the responses we receive to the questions posed at the end of the previous month’s column.
April’s MELD Moment
Nonpartisanship, what does that mean to you? What does DEI mean to you? These are important facets of the League’s work but can be viewed differently by different people. With so many people, and so many views, all working collectively under the umbrella of "the League," it is important to have a shared understanding of these terms and how they guide our work.
To this end, the LWVWA recently completed the process of updating our nonpartisan policy for use in our work. (A basic nonpartisan statement can also be found on our website.) In a similar fashion, the LWVUS updated the national DEI policy in January 2024—and it’s strongly recommended that local Leagues update their policies to reflect the LWVUS DEI policies.
So, what about your League? Does your League post its nonpartisan policy in its newsletters, website, or press releases? Is the nonpartisan policy read at the election forums hosted by your League? Similarly, what are your League’s DEI policies, and where are they displayed?
The League Mind MELD
Last month, we asked: “How do you respond when someone asks you ‘what does the League do?’” and “How is the League different from other nonpartisan groups?”
Below is a sample of responses we received:
Something that sets the League apart is its statements at the beginning of each election forum: “. . . As an organization the League is nonpartisan; it does not support or oppose candidates for public office. Also, the League is a strong proponent of Civil discourse in our proceedings. Civil Discourse means, at minimum, mutually respectful, courteous, constructive and orderly communications.”
“The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization encouraging informed and active participation in government. It influences public policy through education and advocacy. We never support or oppose any political party or candidate. Locally we arrange for candidate forums, register voters, and advocate for public policy based on issues we have studied. We publish The State We’re In: Washington, a textbook used in Washington state used to teach civics in both Spanish and English.”
“When I craft an answer to those questions, I first write down all our League's achievements that I am proud of. Next, I use the words “Here is what I do in our League...” and add in why I love doing this work. I strive to create intrigue and curiosity. Finally, I invite the person to an interesting League Activity.”
April’s question: What are some of your favorite “get-together” events that strengthen the ties and friendships that we enjoy with League members?
Please send responses to Nancy Halvorson, MELD Director, by May 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. Are you interested in learning more about MELD? Talk to your Local League Leadership about becoming involved in MELD.
