| | |
TAKE ACTON... BUT DON'T FORGET TO TAKE CARE
“The power that each of us holds is essential, now more than ever.” Celina Stewart, LWV US CEO
Like you, we are passionate about and committed to the League’s mission to empower voters and defend democracy. And, like many of you, we feel the anxiety and urgency of living in a real and growing constitutional crisis.
How do we cope? We organize. We mobilize. We act. Our League work gives us focus and purpose. Our volunteers and leadership team provide us with hope and strength. And we make time to enjoy the beauty and comfort of friends, family, books, music, and nature.
What can you do? Step in. Speak up. Show up. Reach out to either of us to discuss how your passion, talents, and interests can help the League. Whether you're new to this work or a longtime advocate, there is a role for you.
Our Unite and Rise initiative is a call to all of us to stand together, support one another, and recommit to the values of our great nation and our vibrant community.
Here are some tips on self-care and direct actions you can take to help protect voting rights and ensure free and fair elections.
Stay energized and informed by attending a League event, and join us to learn what we are accomplishing in our monthly chapter update.
In League,
Rhonda and Vilia
rhonda@lwvsrq.org
vilia@lwvsrq.org
| | |
| |
Florida Driver License Changes: What to Know
An important message from our Supervisor of Elections regarding how these changes will impact your ability to request a vote-by-mail ballot online.
If you received a new Florida driver license after July 31, 2024 and did not opt to update your voter record at that time, it is strongly recommended that you update your voter record with your new driver license number. Visit the Update Voter Information section of our website for a complete list of options.
| | | | A Warm Welcome to Our Newest Members | | | |  | |
Amy Ahearn
Chris Ahearn
Ann Bauer
Kathy Fraser
Nancy Levine
Linda Light
Carol Papa
Marilyn Pinsky
Marilyn Schwartz
Linda Trocino
Tierney Wilson
| | |
Saturday, October 4th
10:00am - Noon
Sarasota, S. Bayfront Drive
LWVFL has designated October 4th as a "Day of Action"
to stop mid-cycle redistricting.
Redrawing maps for political gain is unconstitutional. It silences our voices and weakens our democracy.
ENTER OUR SIGN CONTEST - DEADLINE OCTOBER 1ST
Send a photo of your creative, clever or humorous non-partisan
sign to rallies@lwvsrq.org.
The winner will receive a LWVSRQ basket of goodies and a $50
gift card.
| | | |
Saturday, October 11th
10 - 11am
Venice, Michael Biehl Park
EDUCATE. AGITATE. ACT.
The League of Women Voters is uniquely positioned to respond to
our constitutional crisis. On the local level, the Sarasota Chapter is
mobilizing our members and all concerned citizens to speak out for democracy and the rule of law.
The League will supply signs for attendees, and encourages
everyone to wear their League t-shirts. We have ordered additional t-shirts for women and men. T-shirts will be available on site for a $20 donation
| | |
Saturday, October 18th
9:00am - Noon
Payne Park, Sarasota
America’s founders designed a government of three equal branches to safeguard the nation from kings and tyranny. Today’s political climate is testing this time-honored, nonpartisan system. As guardians of democracy, the League must stand against authoritarianism. LWVUS is proud to join as a national partner for No Kings 2—a second day of peaceful mobilization uniting We the People nationwide. Join the movement on Saturday, October 18!
| | | |
Featured speaker, LWVFL President Jessica Lowe-Minor
LWV Manatee Unite and Rise For Democracy Rally
Saturday, November 1st
11:00am-2:00pm
Riverwalk Pavillion
Bradenton, FL
Bringing our community together to honor constitutional values, highlight grassroots efforts, and provide inspiring, actionable resources that help participants actively uphold the rule of law and participate in our democratic process. Learn more...
| | | October 17th, 11:30am - 1:30pm | |
| |
Immigration: State and Local Impacts
Our speaker, Jaime Delgado, will examine the threats we face regarding due process and freedom from cruel and unusual punishment. Mr. Delgado will also share his insights on the impact of Florida laws and State immigration policies on our community.
Click below to learn more and register.
| | | | November 14th, 11:30am - 1:30pm | |
| |
Freedom of the Press Under Fire
Our speaker, Emily LeCoz, Executive Editor in Chief of Suncoast Searchlight, will answer our questions regarding current threats to freedom of the press.
“Suncoast Searchlight was founded on the belief that a strong, independent press is essential to a thriving community... " According to Ms. LeCoz, “There’s never been a greater need for this type of journalism.”
Click below to learn more and register.
| | | | For both events the buffet lunch will include menu items for those with dietary restrictions. Cost will be $35 for members and $40 for non-members. Reserve now! Space is limited! | | |
The Digital Democracy Project
We Have The Technology - You Have the Power!
| | Monday, October 6th, 6:00pm, On Zoom | |
| |
Tell Your Elected Officials How You Want Them to Vote
The Digital Technology Project makes democracy more responsive to the will of registered voters. Hold your representatives accountable. Don't miss this informative webinar to learn more.
You'll Never Feel More Empowered!
| | | | The Digital Democracy Project is a nonpartisan public service provided to all registered voters, representatives, and the public. Learn about app security, our partnership with Voatz, and more here. | | |
These LWVSRQ Lunch and Conversation meet-ups offer members the opportunity
to catch up on latest League news and enjoy camaraderie with like-minded folks.
| | |
North and Central County
The Serving Spoon at Noon
Wednesday, October 15th
| | | |
South County
Café Venice at Noon
Tuesday, October 21st
| | | Monthly LWVSRQ Leaders' Update | | Monday, October 27th, 4 - 5pm | |
| | |
This Zoom event is open to all members and is a great opportunity to learn more about our current initiatives and explore ways you can get involved.
Register here!
| | | | Saturday, November 8th, 9am -12:30pm | |
| |
Public Education Network Sarasota
presents
THE PROMISES AND POSSIBILITIES OF SARASOTA'S DISTRICT SCHOOLS
Join us as we explore the history, impact and future of Sarasota's public schools. Hear from local leaders, engage in thoughtful discussions and learn how to advocate for public education.
Register Here
| | | | |
The Sarasota Herald Tribune -
September 17, 2025
On Constitution Day, it is important to reflect on some of the document’s provisions as it is only through understanding and vigilance that we can ensure the foundation of our government will continue to endure. Read more...
| | | |
WPLG Local 10 News Jacksonville -
August 17, 2025
Florida League of Women Voters' President, Jessica Lowe-Minor, joins TWISF to talk redistricting. Click on the arrow above to view.
| | |
| |
League Members Honored at Suncoast Women of Action Annual Luncheon -
September 20, 2025
This year's honorees included LWVSRQ Co-President Vilia Johnson. A Presidential Award went to Jill Lewis-Spector, PhD for her work with the Public Education Network Sarasota. Aside from chairing the board of PEN, Jill is on the LWVFL board and is our Education Action Team Leader.
| | | | Oppose Mid-Cycle Redistricting | |
| | |
FLORIDA IS FACING AN UNPRECEDENTED UNCONSTITUTIONAL REDISTRICTING EFFORT
Stop the state legislature from redrawing Florida’s Congressional maps in the middle of the decade without new Census data.
This is especially concerning because Florida voters overwhelmingly said they did not want partisan redistricting. In 2010, 63% of voters approved the Fair Districts Amendments (5 and 6), and the League of Women Voters of Florida was proud to be one of their strongest supporters.
Please help defend the will of the voters today!
| | | | | | Write a letter using these templates to your state representatives. (Hand written letters get the most attention.) | | Use the Five Calls app to contact your state representatives. (You can download the 5Calls app on your phone.) | | This Month's Observer Corps Report | |
| | |
For third time, County Commission denies "Proctor Crossing" a commercial development
September 10th Hearing
Speakers at the hearing raised concerns regarding wetlands protection, increased traffic, and no need for more commercial development. They pointed out that wetlands absorb stormwater that otherwise could flood their neighborhoods.
All Observer Corps reports are available at lwvsrq.org under Resources.
| | | | |
The LWVSRQ Board meets on the first Tuesday of every month.
Locations and times may vary.
The next meeting will be on Tuesday, October 7th at 10:15 am via Zoom
Contact Vilia Johnson for more information.
| |
| Do you enjoy reading the "Sarasota Voter"? | | | | |
EMPOWERING VOTERS.
DEFENDING DEMOCRACY.
League of Women Voters of Sarasota County (LWVSRQ)
PO Box 18884, Sarasota, FL 34276-1884
president@lwvsrq.org
| | The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots nonprofit dedicated to empowering everyone to fully participate in our democracy. | | | | |
