League of Women Voters of the Kalamazoo Area
The League of Women Voters of the Kalamazoo Area (LWVKA) is a nonpartisan organization with the mission of Empowering Voters and Defending Democracy. Rather than supporting candidates or parties, the League, which is a member organization of the state and national Leagues, takes positions on issues that it has studied. The League is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion.
The League of Women Voters provides accurate nonpartisan information about candidates and ballot issues. The LWVKA works for increased citizen understanding of the electoral process through:
Voter Services and Community Participation
An educational goal of LWVKA is to provide accurate nonpartisan information about candidates and ballot issues. LWVKA works for increased citizen understanding of the electoral process by:
- Printing Voter Guides covering national, state, and local elections and distribution throughout Kalamazoo County.
- Posting our Voter Guide information on our website and Vote411.org.
- Providing voter registration information through publications and seminars.
- Conducting or co-sponsoring candidate forums and forums on ballot issues.
- Registering new voters.
- Providing voter education and mock elections at the high schools.
- Participating in the Community as poll workers, Board of Canvassers observers, drop box observers, and governmental meeting observers.
Using research and communication skills and knowledge of public affairs gained in the LWVKA, League representatives have served on civic boards and committees in their communities.
As individuals, many LWV members use their League experience in elected and appointed positions in national, local and state government and civic organizations.
Studies & Issues
Study brings knowledge that makes League positions credible and respected. Members examine facts and alternative points of view before arriving at conclusions on selected issues.
Consensus
Consensus evolves from informed discussion and deliberation during and at the conclusion of a study. Every member’s view is important in the LWV. Positions are reached when there is general agreement among members during the exchange of ideas.
Action
The League takes action to promote its program positions established during study and consensus. Action strategies include advocating for legislation and ballot issues, testifying before governing bodies, and expressing opinions in the media.
In recent years the League of Women Voters of the Kalamazoo Area has participated in studies and sponsored public meetings, and taken action on the following important issues, among others. When appropriate for the scope of the issue, this work is accomplished in collaboration with the League of Women Voters of the United States and of the League of Women Voters of Michigan.
Strategic Plan Goals
VOTER ACCESS
Expand outreach and impact of voter services throughout Kalamazoo County through improved education and communication.
CLIMATE CHANGE
Contribute to and participate in local efforts that align with global climate strategies and goals.
ADVOCACY
Engage in advocacy efforts with issues that arise at the local, state and national levels and are supported by the LWVKA positions and goals.
INTERNAL DEVELOPMENT
Develop internal leadership and strengthen communication within the LWVKA by:
- Improving diversity, equity and inclusion
- Establishing strategic partnerships with other organizations
- Improving member engagement and involvement.
LWVKA is an affiliate of The Kalamazoo Climate Change Crisis Coalition (KCCC) and a Member of the League of Women Voters Lake Michigan Region (LWVLMR).
Calhoun County Geographical Unit
The LWVKA Calhoun County Geographical Unit was formed in February 2020 and is open to all interested persons, age 16 and over, in Calhoun County. Currently their new members become members of LWVKA, the mentor League, but they work independently on voter service and voter education and issues pertinent to Calhoun County.
Visit the LWVKA Calhoun County Geographical Unit Facebook Page
Related Links…
