The League of Women Voters of Washington (LWVWA) convention, themed “Stand up for Democracy” was held in Vancouver, WA on June 6-8th. Our host was the League of Women Voters of Clark County. As this was my first time going, I was not sure what I was getting into. Why go? Curiosity – how did the LWVWA operate? Commitment – I have been in the league 5 years and thought it may be time to increase my commitment. Need – I just felt the need to do more during this frustrating political time.
I chose to drive down on Thursday and had the good fortune of partnering with Jayne Freudenberger and Kit Muehlman. What a gift it was to get to know those ladies more. We checked into the lovely Heathman Lodge and received our welcome bag filled with information, snacks and gifts. So far so good!
That evening we were invited out to eat with League members from the Vancouver area and received a short tour of the city. We shared a meal with new members and heard about their work in various fields. We are a diversified group doing good work!
The next three days proceeded with a choreography of workshops, plenary sessions, and professional speakers with fun activities sprinkled in. Several field trips were also offered. The workshops were a 45-60-minute smattering of what other leagues were doing, such as Elder Care, Redistricting, Observer Corps, Media Literacy and News Education Project and much more. It was tough deciding which to attend. Our league’s Climate Team presented a workshop on plastic and our health, “Does This Plastic Make Me Look Fat?” It was exciting to be a part of it.
The Plenary sessions were where the work of the State League was getting done. My first impression was that this was all very bureaucratic and not my style. However, as LWVWA President Mary Coltrane led us through the organizational of business I began to respect the process. With so many leagues represented, wanting their voices to be heard, The Roberts Rules of Order not only saved the day, but made the work meaningful and efficient. Hats off to Mary and her parliamentarian.
Yes, it was impressive so far, but the highlight of the weekend was the exceptional speakers that we were gifted at every meal. I am still in awe of the information we received, wrapped in a package with a bow! We heard from Willie Frank III on treaty rights and Indigenous culture, Dr. Susan Martin on immigration in America, WA State Attorney General Nick Brown on the state of affairs in WA, and Dr. Kate Starbird, who spoke on the challenges of our social media ecosystem. Last but not least, we heard from LWVUS President Dianna Wynn. I wish you all could have been there. She spoke of the challenges at the National level and at her personal level. She spoke of this scary time that requires us all to be courageous enough to step out of our comfort zone and make our voices heard. I felt challenged and inspired. There are over 700 Leagues in all 50 states all making good trouble.
Yay, Team!
Did you know: As members of the League, attendance at all State and National Conventions and Councils is possible in person and via Zoom. The LWVWA will hold a Council next year, with conventions on odd years and councils on even years (opposite for the National League).
In conclusion, attending the convention provided a new perspective and understanding of the National and WA League, highlighting the importance of local leagues like Bellingham/Whatcom County in strengthening the broader organization. Thank you for being a League member!