The John Lewis Day of Action is a nationwide effort led by the Transformative Justice Coalition, Black Voters Matter, Indivisible, Declaration for American Democracy, and Public Citizen. LWVUS is an official partner for these July 17th Day of Action events taking place across the country.

We encourage all members to join LWVAZ and your local leagues to participate in any events approved by your local leagues. Please verify that the organizers are non partisan and that your league members feel safe to participate.

You can locate the actions planned across the nation using this Link

Wear your LWV badges, hats, and t-shirts

Bring signs

Dress appropriately for the weather

This is a peaceful protest. We ask all members to review the below “Guidance for Members Attending Protests and Rallies” in the latest LWVAZ Advocacy and Action newsletter before attending.

Guidance for League Members Attending Rallies and Protests

The League of Women Voters believes that the freedom to assemble and protest is a vital part of our democratic system. Many of you may be considering participating in actions on or around June 14, as citizens across the country mobilize to defend democracy.

While protest is a powerful tool for change, it also comes with risks. Whether organized by the League or another group, participation is voluntary and at your own discretion. Please take a moment to review the important safety and legal guidance below.

Disclaimer

If you choose to participate in a protest or rally coordinated by the League of Women Voters of the United States or another organization, you do so at your own risk. You are solely responsible for your safety and any consequences that may arise from your participation. The League assumes no liability or responsibility.

Important Context

Even peaceful events can shift quickly. Demonstrations may attract opposition or a law enforcement response. No matter how much you prepare, there is always a possibility of arrest, injury, or other consequences. We encourage all participants to educate themselves and take precautions.

Resources to Support Your Safety and Rights

About this event

July 17 - Corner Democracy protest! We will stand up for Democracy on the corner of 89A and Coffee Pot Drive 9:30-10:30 am with signs that convey our messages.

July 17 is a national day of nonviolent action to respond to the attacks posed on our civil and human rights by the Trump administration.

Here’s the truth: in America, the power lies with the people, and we are rising to prove it. The Trump administration is launching a full-scale attack on our civil and human rights. We are resisting! We are protesting! We are standing up!!!

Join us to demand that Congress fight back and protect our freedoms. This is a moment of moral clarity and collective power.

On the anniversary of Congressman John Lewis’ death, we are taking action across the country to defend Democracy and carry forward his legacy.

Bring your sign or borrow a sign. Dress appropriately. Bring a water bottle. Bring a hat, wet neck scarf, carry an umbrella.

John Lewis said, “Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be Hopeful! Be optimistic!”.

July 17 - Sedona - Corner Democracy

Time:

Thursday, July 17

9:30 – 10:30am MST

Location:

Corner Democracy

West State Route 89A & Coffee Pot Drive

Sedona, AZ

League of Women Voters of Arizona Statement on Political Violence

The League of Women Voters of Arizona strongly condemns all acts of political violence. As an organization committed to defending democracy, we are heartbroken by the recent tragedies targeting elected officials and public servants.

We grieve the devastating shootings in Minnesota that took the lives of an elected official and her husband and left two others injured. We are also deeply concerned by last week’s incident in Tucson, where gunfire was directed near the home office of a congressional candidate.

We extend our deepest condolences to the Hortman and Hoffman families, and to the communities they served with courage and integrity. This loss is heavy on our hearts and we mourn alongside Minnesotans, Arizonans, and all Americans who believe in a safe and functioning democracy.

These were targeted attacks on individuals who chose to serve their communities through public office. When leaders are attacked, we all suffer. Political violence undermines trust, discourages civic participation, and threatens the very foundation of our democracy. In a healthy democracy, we resolve differences through dialogue and elections—not through threats, intimidation, or violence.

We call on all Arizonans to stand united in defense of our democratic values. Let us reject fear and hatred, and recommit ourselves to building a society where every voice can be heard safely, and those who serve the public can do so without fear.

Political violence has no place in our system. Democracy demands our courage, our compassion, and our collective resolve.

LWV Northern Arizona Action Corner

The most effective way to harness the full potential of your League of Women Voters membership is to get actively engage in our Action and Advocacy efforts. Dive into making democracy work by bringing your curiosity, expertise, and passion to a myriad of roles aimed at empowering voters and defending democracy. Your involvement is pivotal—not only does it empower individuals, but it also strengthens the very fabric of our democracy. Join us in this vital work—your efforts make a significant difference.

Here are the actions you can take to make a difference!

Click on these actions alerts to tell your Member of Congress to Stand Up for Democracy and Protect our voting rights!

Action Alert: Urge Your Members of Congress to Stand Up for Democracy
Action Alert: Tell Your Members of Congress to Oppose the SAVE Act

STATE ACTION: LWV Arizona ADVOCACY

The LWV of Arizona needs Advocacy champions. Put your talent and passion to work by participating in a broad range of advocacy activities. You choose your level of commitment. Every action matters and your involvement makes us powerful and effective.

· Commenting on bills in the legislature that are LWVAZ priorities

· Join an Issue Team

· Become a League volunteer lobbyist

· Fight mis and disinformation by volunteering to work on League podcasts

Use the LWV Arizona one-stop signup to participate in these advocacy activities.

Also take a look at 5calls.org. – it is an easy way for you to make a political impact.

And lastly, Download the League In Action app and join a network of Leagues across the country taking action to empower voters and defend our democracy.

Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act

The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, introduced by U.S. Representative Chip Roy (R-TX) and scheduled for floor consideration the week of February 24, would require in-person submission of documentary proof of American citizenship each time a person registers to vote. This goes beyond the current requirement—present in every state—that voters affirm or verify their citizenship when registering. If enacted, the law would effectively eliminate online and mail voter registration options by mandating applicants bring approved citizenship documents to election offices.

Make Your Voice Heard!

Call on all Arizona Representatives and Senators to oppose this bill. Let the bill’s sponsors from Arizona—Reps. Elijah Crane, Andy Biggs, Paul Gosar, and Abraham Hamadeh—know that Arizonans reject any legislation that undermines our right to vote.Tell your members of Congress to oppose the SAVE act!

Spread the Word

Reach out to your friends, family, and community across the country —especially female legislators both Republican and Democrats — and urge them to oppose this legislation.

Acceptable documentation under the bill includes a U.S. passport, a government-issued photo ID with a listed place of birth, or a REAL ID-compliant form of identification. Military IDs and other government-issued photo IDs are acceptable only if accompanied by additional proof of citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate. Furthermore, the bill allows for a discrepancy process, in which applicants without standard documentation must provide supplementary records—such as a naturalization certificate, consulate birth report, or qualifying adoption decree—to establish citizenship.

Critics point out that birth certificates often do not reflect current legal names, which could disproportionately affect voters who have changed their names—particularly married women. Research suggests that up to 34% of voting-age women lack citizenship documents matching their current legal name, and more than 9% of Americans do not have readily available proof of citizenship. Because marriage certificates are not explicitly listed as acceptable documentation, these changes may pose additional barriers to registering and voting under the SAVE Act.

Read more about how this bill impacts citizens: The Save Act will make voting harder.

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The League of Women Voters of the US Urges Congress to Act in New Letter

WASHINGTON — Today, the League of Women Voters of the United States and League chapters from all 50 states and the District of Columbia sent a letter to congressional leaders expressing strong concern over abandoning its duties and authorities under Article I of the US Constitution, urging leaders to address the unprecedented executive branch overreach threatening American democracy.

In the detailed letter to Congress, the League — a nonpartisan organization with over one million members and supporters across all 50 states and the District of Columbia — highlighted several recent executive branch actions that are causing significant harm to millions of Americans, including the undermining of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, attempts to end birthright citizenship, pause distribution of congressionally allocated federal funds, and dismantle federal agencies without proper congressional oversight.

Of particular concern is the creation of an unofficial "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE) with free rein to sensitive government systems and the summary removal of 17 inspectors general without the required congressional notice. Additionally, DOGE employees who lack security clearance have gained access to the Treasury Department payment systems and other sensitive data from different departments. These unauthorized personnel have prevented federal workers from entering their offices and can manipulate or stop payments to federal agencies, including USAID, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and the US Department of Education.

"The dismantling of our sacred democracy on full display for the world is one of the most horrific events in modern-day politics," said Celina Stewart, CEO of the League of Women Voters of the United States. "When the executive branch egregiously signals it will defy court orders and neglect the welfare of citizens, that is when Congress must be reminded of their duty to defend the Constitution. The League demands Congress act to prevent threats to the very fabric of our Republic.”

"This is a critical moment for congressional oversight, and Congress must do its part to ensure that our great democracy is preserved and protected," said Marcia Johnson, chief counsel at the League. "The outcry from Americans speaking out against the impact of these executive orders should be all that is needed for Congress to stand in its authority and restore stability to our system of government."

The letter emphasizes that while federal courts have already enjoined several of these executive actions, Congress has not exercised its constitutional oversight. The League and its supporters urge Congress to exercise its authority to protect the rule of law, defend the Constitution, and rein in the executive branch's overreach. Read the letter here.

State Advocacy

The League is a nonpartisan political organization. That means we never support or oppose candidates or political parties. We do study, take positions and then advocate for our priorities. At the state level this year our priorities for Advocacy, as chosen by our members and approved by the state board are:

Voting Rights
Women’s Rights
Education
Climate
Gun Safety
Criminal Justice
Ranked Choice Voting

Legislative Analysis Team – monitors AZ state legislation in these priority areas, studies the impact of bills, prepares testimony for our lobbyists and alerts members who may wish to contact their legislator, or express a position using the AZ Legislature Request to Speak System

Volunteer Lobby Core – members are trained and registered as League lobbyists. They attend Legislative committee meetings and testify on our behalf. Multiple volunteers are especially important when there are several committee meetings on a single day. Funds are available for transportation and parking for members outside of Metro Phoenix.

Advocacy Newsletter – generally sent weekly to subscribers during the Legislative season. Informs members of critical bills and suggests oppose or support with talking points. Sign up at lwvazadvocacy@gmail.com

Request to Speak (RTS) – this is a wonderful, unique feature of the AZ Legislature. Any member registered on the site can express support or opposition to a bill before a committee hearing, as well as leave comments – which legislators do read! This is an easy and important way to become involved. Training is offered and we will help you register for the system. If you haven’t done this before – this is the year!