Previously in The Voter, we explored our rights as League members. Now, we focus on our responsibilities. Whether we are new or experienced, it's important to understand our part in “Empowering Voters and Defending Democracy.” We invest time, effort, and more toward the League’s mission with enthusiasm and a strong commitment to its success as a community advocate. With a solid Responsibility Policy, we can act professionally and compassionately.
To promote the success of LWV and help ensure a safe environment for collaboration, all members must:
- Abide by the applicable rules of LWVUS and their state and local Leagues as set out in each League’s By-laws and official policies.
- Abide by the applicable nonpartisan policy on behalf of LWV. Most of us are free to participate in partisan politics on our own, including campaigns and being a candidate ourselves, but we must not identify ourselves as a LWV member or use any League’s nonpublic resources when doing so. Certain board members and forum leaders/moderators may not be able to participate at all in non-partisan activities or hold elected office.
- Abide by the applicable diversity, equity, and inclusion policy.
- Engage in behavior that promotes respectful discourse and refrain from physically or verbally abusive behaviors. The League is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.
- Commit LWV to action only when authorized to do so by our state or local League or LWVUS. Only the president of a local, state or national League may speak for that League. This may be delegated by the president but we must be careful not to speak for the League without this delegation.
- Not act in opposition to a League position or policy when authorized to act on behalf of LWV or when identifying themselves as LWV members. Members are not required to agree with all LWV positions and may choose not to participate in activities that promote positions they oppose.
- Not make statements on behalf of LWV or purport to represent LWV through any public medium, including online media, unless specifically authorized to do so by our state or local League or LWVUS.
- Comply with all LWVUS brand standards to protect its trademarks.
Thanks for taking the time to review our responsibilities. Together, following these guidelines, our League will remain a strong leader in our community.
To get familiar with the Rights and Responsibility policy go to: www.LWVWA.org click on “For Members”.
To view our By-laws and policies go to: www.LWVBellinghamWhatcom.org and click on “For Members”
For more information or questions email: lwvbwcinfo@lwvbellinghamwhatcom.org
*Material for this article was taken from www.LWV.org and www.LWVWA.org