Our Bylaws were last changed then adopted at our annual meeting on April 28, 2007.
The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization. This means that it does not support or oppose any political party or candidate. Yet it is a political organization in that it takes positions on selected issues after member study and agreement, and then advocates for its positions to government officers and the general public.
In order to protect the League’s nonpartisan reputation, it is important that all members and the public understand the following:
The League recognizes the role of the political parties in our form of government, and encourages its members – as individuals – to work actively in the party of their choice. League members may take part in political activities, such as stimulating public discussion of candidates during campaigns, making contributions to the party and candidates of their choice, working for candidates.
Guidelines regarding members in leadership positions
League leaders must recognize that they have a special responsibility to see
that their activities do not create an impression of partisanship. The President, the Voter Service Chairperson and any other
League leader whose position is deemed sensitive by the local League shall not
run for, or hold elective office. If such a leader declares for an elective
office, the member shall resign from the position held. Also, these same
leaders shall not participate in any political campaign in any way. (They may
make financial contributions to candidates and/or political parties and attend
events to meet candidates.)
Board members shall not undertake any action that will cause them to be identified publicly as supporting any candidate for office or any political party. They shall not chair or administer political campaigns, chair campaign events, or work in a significant (public) way in a candidate campaign. (They may make financial contributions to candidates or parties, attend events to meet candidates, participate in behind-the-scenes efforts for candidates such as helping with mailings, writing position papers, signing nomination papers, etc.)
Spouse political activities
The political activities of a spouse or relative of a board member are
considered as separate and distinct from the activities of the board member.
Serving on Commissions
League members, including board members, may serve on any public board,
commission, committee or coalition: however, that member does not represent the
League unless officially designated a League representative by the LWVUI
board.
Representing the League
When League members are officially representing the League in the community,
they must not allow partisanship to be discernable. Also, these members should
be aware of League positions, attempt to present them accurately, and not work
against them.
