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.
What a great finale to our year! The LWVN Annual Meeting on May 16 in the elegant Founder's Room at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center was full of good food and great conversation. Members approved the 2013-2014 proposed slate of officers and board of directors, public policy priorities, and budget. Thanks go to the Nominating Committee, chaired by Representative Brenda Gilmore, for providing us with this talented slate--now elected and enthusiastically welcomed. Our thanks also go to the dedicated board members who have completed their terms.
Author Jim Stovall gave a fascinating overview of his book, Seeing Suffrage: The Washington Suffrage Parade of 1913, Its Pictures and Its Effect on the American Political Landscape. His photojournal records this early and, in many ways successful, effort by suffragettes to use media as an effective tool of communication and is an important lesson for the League to remember as we continue to lend public voice for contemporary issues.
We also had the opportunity to recognize three of our members who have reached the extraordinary 50 year milestone of Lifetime Membership in the League of Women Voters. We are so honored to have the benefit of the wisdom of Margaret Norris, Anne Roos, and Rachel Touchton!
During the recent statewide LWVTN Convention in Knoxville, the state league adopted public policy priorities for 2013-2014. The action included a vote to concur with the Nashville position, adopted in 2013, opposing public school vouchers. When this issue is re-introduced on Capitol Hill during the continued 108th Legislative Session in January 2014, our position will be strengthened by having statewide advocacy support from League members across Tennessee.
Locally, we continue to play an important role as well. Diane DiIanni has been appointed to fill the LWVN's seat (one of five) on the Metro Council Board of Ethical Conduct. This board is charged with reviewing citizen complaints of misconduct by council members.
Although there are no elections slated in Davidson County during 2013, the Davidson County Election Commission has been of considerable interest recently with the firing of administrator Albert Tieche and the resignation of Commissioner Jim Gotto. We look forward to opportunities to work with the election commission to ensure that the election process in the county proceeds smoothly in the future. This is an ideal time to call again for the introduction of verifiable paper ballots prior to the next election cycle.
Debby Gould,
President
League of Women Voters of Nashville
Consistent Voter Services
League members can impact the election process by volunteering to help educate the citizens of the community and provide opportunities for voter registration. Voter education and voter registration opportunities are continuous but peak during election years. Get involved by:
League members can impact public policy by educating the public about issues important to good government and community well-being, and advocating for League positions on key issues. Because we live in the state capital, Nashville League members work on both local and state issues. We also answer calls to action from the LWVUS when issues are pending in Congress. Whatever your interests, you can get involved!
Specifically, the League advocates for access to health care; education to prepare students for responsible citizenry and the economy of the future; good stewardship of our natural resources; election processes that are fair and secure; and ethics and transparency in government. League members interested in issue advocacy can participate by:
Please tell us how you would like to become involved by calling (615) 297-7134 or sending an email to info@LWVNashville.org or president@LWVNashville.org