The League of Women Voters is a nationwide nonpartisan political organization that neither supports nor opposes candidates or political parties. The League has been an activist, grassroots organization since 1920.
We are women and men of all ages and backgrounds who encourage informed and active participation in government, promote civic education, and work to increase understanding of major public policy issues.
We are proud to be nonpartisan, but we may take action on governmental measures and policies in the public interest after significant study and consensus is reached.
Our local league, the League of Women Voters of Williamsburg Area has been educating and empowering voters and studying issues since 1962.
Our Roles
The League of Women Voters has two distinct roles:
1 - Voter Service and Citizen Education
We present unbiased nonpartisan information about elections, the voting process, and issues, as a nonprofit public policy educational organization. For voter service and citizen education activities, we may use funds from the League of Women Voters Education Fund, which is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization.
2 - Action and Advocacy
After reflection, study, and position creating, we advocate for or against policies in the public interest. The League of Women Voters and its local leagues advocate as a nonprofit 501(c)(4) corporation. Our Visions, Beliefs and Intentions guide our activities.
Our Vision, Beliefs, Intentions
We envision a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge, and the confidence to participate.
We:
- Act after study and member agreement to achieve solutions in the public interest on key community issues at all government levels
- Build citizen participation in the democratic process
- Engage communities in promoting positive solutions to public policy issues through education and advocacy
We:
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Respect individuals
- Value diversity
- Seek to empower the grassroots, both within the League and in communities
We:
- Act with trust, integrity and professionalism
- Operate in an open and effective manner to meet the needs of those we serve, both members and the public
- Take the initiative in seeking diversity in membership
- Acknowledge our heritage as we seek our path to the future