About Us

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Membership in the League of Women Voters is open to everyone 16 years of age and over.

Political but non-Partisan

The League of Women Voters is political but non-partisan. The League does not support or endorse any political party or any candidate for office. The League does take a position on issues after careful study leading to a consensus of the membership. These positions form the basis for our action, which ranges from contacting public officials, writing letters to the editor, circulating petitions, or even litigation.

Members, as individuals, are encouraged to participate fully in the political process and persons with partisan affiliations are actively sought as members. Members holding certain League offices and positions, however, are precluded from active partisan activities during their term on the League Board.

History

The Dayton League of Women Voters was founded in May 1920, just months after formation of the National LWV, and passage of the 19th amendment granting women the right to vote. An outgrowth of the women’s suffrage movement. League initially addressed founder Carrie Chapman Catt’s famous question: “Now that you have the vote, what are you going to do with it?” Since then, the League has continued to educate both women and men on the political issues that affect their lives, and to advocate for voting rights and accountable government at all levels.

As we enter our second century, the work of the League has never been more important.