Why join the LWV?

The Livingston League supports democracy in a nonpartisan manner withinformation about voting rights, and registration events; two platforms for local candidates to share their positions with voters (Vote 411 online Q&A, and Candidate Forums);publication of Who's Who: Your Elected Officials, to connect voters to their representatives;an Observer Corp supporting transparency at our local government level, andeducational programs on the roles and responsibilities of Livingston County officials.

 

The State and National League organizations work on a broader scale to engage voters and combat voter suppression; maintain the nationwide Vote411 voter information system;  monitor and advocate for voting right legislation,  and initiate and support judicial action to support voter rights.

LWV never supports candidates or political parties, but we do take positions on and advocate for issues which we have studied.  LWVMI and LWVUS Positions, adopted after formal study processes, are available on their respective websites.

How much time is involved with 'membership' ?

It's up to you. Many members choose to support the League only with their annual dues. Your membership alone gives us the political influence needed to build a voice for citizens and a force for change.   We do have many active local members.  New members are contacted regarding areas of interest and expertise, and invited to a Welcome Social, to meet board members and discuss needs and interests.   There are opportunities to be engaged in both ongoing roles and short term projects.    Board meetings are held monthly and are open for all members to attend.  General membership meetings,  with social and/or educational agendas are typically held four to six times/year.  Monthly e-newsletters keep members apprised of activities and opportunities to be involved.

With any level of  participation in the LWV, you will contribute valuable service to the community.  There is opportunity to gain knowledge and experience through the study and discussion of timely and important topics,  discover new interests, develop new skills, learn about crucial issues in your community, make professional contacts, and develop lasting friendships as you meet others in the League who share your interests.

How about additional contributions?

We welcome contributions in addition of membership dues.  Our 'pay what you can' approach to dues is intended to remove financial barriers which might limit  participation for some individuals.   Other members may opt for a higher dues amount.  All money identified as dues on the application/renewal form is split as noted between the local (20%), state (47%), and national (33%) organizations.   Those interested in directing a contribution in excess of their selected dues amount, to the Livingston League  have the opportunity to do so in the online join/renew process.  This amount is not tax deductible. Those using  checks for payment are asked to write separate checks to LWVUS for dues, and LWVLC for additional contributions. 

Members interested in making additional donations to the state or national Leagues are referred to those web sites for instruction.

Why We Will Remain the League of WOMEN Voters

The League began in 1920 as a “mighty political experiment” with the largest expansion of the electorate in American history and became a space for newly enfranchised women to share ideas, learn about elections and government, study issues vital to the nation, and develop our own leadership abilities.  

 

Our name is at the heart of that mighty political experiment. It reinforces that our organization is a safe space for women to seek and exercise power, that we deeply understand the issues women face, and that we are prepared to defend our rights through advocacy, activism, and at the ballot box. By championing women voters, we aren’t diminishing the importance of individuals who identify differently; we are reinforcing that women also deserve a voice in our elections.   (Read the Entire 01-07-2025 LWVUS Blog Article)

 

Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy

LWV is an organization fully committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in principle and in practice. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to the organization’s current and future success in engaging all individuals, households, communities, and policy makers in creating a more perfect democracy.

There shall be no barriers to full participation in this organization on the basis of gender, gender identity, ethnicity, race, native or indigenous origin, age, generation, sexual orientation, culture, religion, belief system, marital status, parental status, socioeconomic status, language, accent, ability status, mental health, educational level or background, geography, nationality, work style, work experience, job role function, thinking style, personality type, physical appearance, political perspective or affiliation and/or any other characteristic that can be identified as recognizing or illustrating diversity.