“Program of Work” is the League of Women Voters’ grassroots process for studying and reaching agreement on positions on issues. Members submit ideas for program studies at local, state and national levels. Once objective research has been done, reports are fact-checked, shared with members, and an education and a consensus process kicks off. Only after consensus can the board take positions on the issues addressed by the Program.
So, while the process is lengthy and seems slow, it is also our superpower. Because there is such thorough study, reporting, fact-checking, and consensus behind its positions, the League may be considered a trustworthy source of information for elected officials. When we speak, they are more likely to listen because we have done our homework and we come prepared to address the issues.
The LWVWA’s 2023 Program on T
The Decline of Local News and Its Impact on Democracy was one of its most recent studies. The LWVBWC’s last study was the Economic Security of Women in 2015, amended in 2019.
This is the time of year when Program proposals are being gathered so they can be considered at the state convention in June or by our local League at our member meeting this summer. If you have ideas for local or state Programs, especially if you would be interested in participating in the study and the study has the potential to make a difference and offer tangible results, please let me know.
Two studies and an educational project have been completed by the state League and are expected to be released to local Leagues for education/consensus in the first quarter of 2025. Watch your email and newsletters for information about the studies and our consensus meetings.
Study: “Caregiving in Washington State: What exists and what is needed to support seniors and other vulnerable adults and their caregivers.”
Study: “Immigration and Immigrant Integration”
Education Project: “Multi-Member Districts”. Report has been issued, see website
here. I think you will be impressed by the quality of the information.
I hope that as a member you will consider reading the studies as they are issued and participating in our consensus process. It is a fundamental part of the League’s history and our work.
There is much more to the League’s Program process but this gives you an overview. For more information, check out the
LWVWA website on Program of Work and Studies.
Eileen McCracken, LWVBWC President
president@lwvbellinghamwhatcom.org