Welcome to the League of Women Voters of Northern Arizona. And welcome to 2021, a new year of advocacy and education. The League of Women Voters Northern Arizona (LWVNAZ) is a nonpartisan, political organization, neither supporting nor opposing candidates or political parties at any level of government, but always working on vital issues of concern to members and the public. We encourage informed and active participation in government, and work to influence public policy through education and advocacy. LWVNAZ envisions a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. Our mission is to empower voters and defend our democracy. LWVNAZ is an organization fully committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in principle and in practice. Membership and participation is open to all individuals.
WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO
When the 19th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified in 1920, women were permitted to vote on national issues for the first time. The League of Women Voters was formed with the thought that women needed enlightenment and encouragement to vote. Immediately, the League became involved with a number of significant issues -- and not just "women's issues." In 1976, the League invited men into full membership.
Our local league was formed in Sedona in 1988, expanded to include the Village of Oak Creek in 1990, and later expanded its scope and became the League of Women Voters of Sedona-Verde Valley in 1999. In 2012 we again changed our name -- to the League of Women Voters Greater Verde Valley. This name better reflects our regional focus throughout the Verde Valley. In 2021, we are expanding again to include the Flagstaff chapter to become the League of Women Voters of Northern Arizona.
We would like to invite you to join the League of Women Voters as a member! Your membership in the League will support our mission and vision to Empower Voters and Defend Democracy. Where we envision a democracy where every person has the desire, the right, the knowledge and the confidence to participate. LWV is an organization fully committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in principle and in practice.
In 2021-2022, the League of Women Voters of Northern Arizona is focused on continuing with educating and empowering voters.
Our monthly Voter Education programs will include topics such as National Popular Vote Compact, Education Funding in Arizona, Voter Suppression and critical rights issues for the general election in 2022. These programs are held in partnership with Yavapai College Sedona-Verde Valley OLLI program.
Our monthly Let's Talk Politics program encourages League members to come talk about political issues at the local, state and national levels - this is the best therapy session for those who like to talk about politics!
Our very active Book Club will be reading timely books every month.
At the state level and national levels, the League of Women Voters will be active in several areas: Redistricting, Money in Politics, Fighting Voter Suppression, and Climate Change.