The LWVBWC Advocacy Team conducted a survey of members who indicated an interest in Advocacy when they joined or renewed. Thank you to everyone who responded. It’s also an invitation to join a new Advocacy Team. Many members joined the League wanting to be active during this period of change and uncertainty. Become part of the team to help develop practical, short-term actions that can make a real impact.
LWVBW Advocacy Survey: November 2025
Logistics: Out of 80 contacts, 59 were emailed and then called, resulting in 24 responses (41%). The remaining 21 received only an email requesting a reply; just 1 responded.
Many thanks to Minda Rae Amiran, Mary Lynne Courtne, Kathy Washatka and Judy Bryngelson for their help and support.
Major Takeaways:
1. Why did you join the league?
Two main motivations were identified: personal growth and meeting community needs. Women joined the League to meet and work with others who share the same passion for a stronger democracy and community. Building relationships and personal growth through participation and education is paramount.
They joined to play a larger role in all aspects of democracy; to preserve what is good about the US, to protect the patriotic values we hold dear, and to insist on the rule of the law and hold public servants and service accountable. They joined to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to vote and participate in all levels of government.
2. What did you have in mind when you shared that you have an interest in Advocacy?
Advocacy involves using education, legislation, networking, and public events to address issues. It’s about sharing experiences, building connections, and encouraging community involvement. Advocacy helps identify what is valuable and worth protecting. Collaborating within the League amplifies individual efforts.
3. How do you see yourself being a part of LWV Bellingham/ Whatcom? How would you like to fit in the role of advocacy?
Advocacy is most effective when driven by clear goals and informed actions. Requesting projects with specific timelines works well. It's vital to monitor legislative bills and local initiatives and then share contacts for key decision-makers along with ideas for responses. Financial contributions to the League make a valuable impact and are greatly appreciated. Modern advocacy should fit into busy schedules and encourage collaboration to promote positive solutions in response to today's widespread hate, fear, and violence.
4. What do you think our League needs to do to improve our Advocacy?
Advocacy must be at the core of our organization. Every issue team should actively find methods to inform and engage the community about local, state, and national issues. Voting and education are identified as the main drivers for change. Ongoing educational opportunities are essential for members to develop effective advocacy skills. Suggested activities include writing letters, making phone calls, sending postcards, tabling, organizing action workshops, participating in rallies, and protesting. Evidence shows that legislators notice when they receive ten or more letters either supporting or opposing a bill.
Additionally, building relationships during this work is a valuable benefit many seek. Consider hosting advocacy gatherings at coffee shops to foster these connections.
5. What additional information do you need as we all explore the role of Advocacy
The local website provides helpful information but can feel overwhelming to some users. State and national League sites also offer ample resources. An advocacy group orientation or an in-person meeting was proposed. Building partnerships should be a focus. Bringing together all issue chairs would allow them to discuss their efforts and how advocacy relates to their work. There is interest in hosting more educational meetings on topics like legislative issues, ranked-choice voting, climate change, health care, immigrant support, and nonpartisanship. The Advocacy Committee should act as an information hub and invite interest groups to present legislation topics. We need to encourage members to connect with issue teams and participate. Mary Lynne Courtney shared this thought: “Find a group of people who challenge and inspire you, spend a lot of time with them, and it will change your life.”
Join our Advocacy Team. Contact me at: advocacy@lwvbellinghamwhatcom.org or 360-303-0274
Thank You!
Dorie Belisle
