About LWV
The goal of the League of Women Voters is to empower citizens to shape better communities worldwide. The League of Women Voters is a great way to get involved in your community and play an active role in our democracy. By joining the League, citizens can gain the information and skills they need to become effective participants in government. Belonging to an active local League offers additional opportunities to take part in the democratic process. For the organization as a whole, new members and new Leagues mean fresh ideas, innovative approaches to resolving public policy concerns, and ongoing sources of leadership.
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 citizens’ organization that has fought since 1920 to improve our government and engage all citizens in the decisions that impact their lives. We operate at national, state and local levels. Our members are passionate activists who support our work in all 50 states and in more than 700 communities.
Formed from the movement that secured the right to vote for women, the centerpiece of the League’s efforts remain to expand participation and give a voice to all Americans. We do this at all three levels of government, engaging in both broad educational efforts as well as advocacy. Our issues are grounded in our respected history of making democracy work for all citizens.
Membership is open to all men and women without respect to age, citizenship status, or party affiliation. Voting members are those who are 16 years or older and U.S. citizens.
Nonpartisanship
Nonpartisanship means that the League of Women Voters does not support or oppose any political parties or candidates. Today, this policy continues to ensure that the League’s voice is heard above the tumult of party politics.
To ensure the credibility of the League as a nonpartisan organization, each League’s board of directors is responsible for drafting and carrying out its own nonpartisan policy and for seeing that both its members and the public understand the League’s nonpartisan role.
The League does take action on issues which it has studied and on which it has a position. The League is a multi-issue organization, with positions falling into the general areas of government, social policy, natural resources, and international relations.
Voter Participation
The League is known primarily for encouraging voter participation. This includes a commitment to providing fact-based information so voters can make informed decisions. New groups organizing to become a local League may register voters, conduct candidate forums, distribute state Voters Guides, and publish local guides to elected officials. They may also host public issues forums in order to present various viewpoints on topics (e.g., recycling or health care), or ballot issues impacting their communities.