Open Letter to League of Women Voters Members,

We are going through our too-familiar stages of shock and horror related to still another school shooting—still again in Colorado—this time at Denver’s East High School.

The first stage is the realization that another senseless gun-related action has happened, and we want to know more about it. Then the heart and human compassion take over as we search for ways to help make lasting changes.

I urge LWVLC members to take action for lasting changes in ways that will help Coloradoans to lead their lives in peace and safety.

Let’s do what we do best: educate and advocate to affect government legislation on Gun Safety.

Here is a link to current gun safety bills that are in the Colorado Legislature and the LWV’s positions of support or oppose:

LWV Legislative Positions on Gun Safety

Here is a link to contact your elected officials:

Who are my Representatives?

Sympathize and worry, but then TAKE ACTION by writing and advocating for gun safety through legislation and by joining forces with other organizations who are seeking change.

Make Democracy Work!

Our hearts and energy go out to all those affected by the East High School tragedy.

Jane Hamburger, President

League of Women Voters of Larimer County

Political but Non-Partisan

Since its founding, the League of Women Voters committed to neither support or oppose any political party or candidate for public office. This tradition continues today to ensure that the League’s voice is heard above the tumult of party politics. The nonpartisan policy has added strength to the League’s position on issues. It has made possible wide acceptance of League voter service and other educational activities.

Nonpartisan means that the League never supports or opposes political parties or candidates or appointees. All League members need to remember that the League’s reputation for fairness is long-standing and hard-won and needs to be guarded. We invite you to read more about our Non-Partisan Policy

Although we DO NOT support candidates, we do research, recommend, and support ballot issues that are supported by League positions.

The League is a political organization and encourages members to participate fully in the party of their choice.  It is an advantage to the League to have politically active members, and equally important, it can be a personally satisfying experience.

“In the League of Women Voters we have an anomaly; we are going to be a semi-political body. We want political things; we want legislation; we’re going to educate for citizenship. In that body we have got to be non-partisan and all-partisan. Democrats from Alabama and Republicans from New Hampshire must work for the same things.”

Carrie Chapman Catt at the League’s founding in Chicago, 1920

What does this mean for Members?

Individual League members are encouraged to be politically active. However, when they participate in partisan activities, they may not identify themselves as League members.

A League will be a strong and effective political force to the degree that it can deal with and accept controversy and live with uncertainty.

Keep in mind that conflict of interest may arise between a “board” member’s paid employment and her or his role in the League. Visit with a member of the Administrative Team with any concerns or questions you may have.

League Statements

No member (including officers) may speak for the League unless they have first obtained review and approval by a majority of Administrative Team of the proposed statement.

Key Member Restrictions

Certain individuals who have high public visibility as officers or leaders of the League (Key Members) are restricted from partisan activity. Members can review the details in our Member Notebook.