Inspiration

From time to time the League of Women Voters of Bellingham/Whatcom County invites a speaker to address subjects that inform and inspire us.  We invite you to watch these recordings and let us know what you think.

Defending Democracy in Politicized Times

Dr. Catherine Wineinger, Assistant Professor of Political Science at Western Washington University presents “Defending Democracy in Politicized Times” at the LWVBWC 2023 Annual Meeting. In this talk she addresses political polarization in the United States past and present, why this polarization is a threat to democracy, and what local organizations like the League of Women Voters can do to help uphold democracy.

One of Cathy's suggestions is to support labor unions and organizing.  She believes labor unions are one of the antidotes to threats to democracy because they address income inequality, and research has shown that they reduce racial resentment among white workers.

Do you think the League should be more involved with labor organizing?  Let us know.

Stephen Gockley Advocates Advocacy

Stephen Gockley is a retired civil legal aid lawyer.  Beyond individual client advocacy, Stephen sought to broaden the impact of his work by expanding the public awareness of poverty and its effects, by changing governmental and organizational policies, and by building community collaborations and partnerships. 

Stephen says, "I think what I have been encouraging this morning is for our chapter to be nimble and creative in response to changes in local needs, to expand its range of activities to include a strong advocacy component, to ask a bit more from members in that regard, and to tailor its advocacy efforts to various situations we might take advantage of."  Do you think we need to advocate more strongly?  Let us know.

For a transcription of his remarks, click here.