Did you know that in the absence of local journalism, there is increased government corruption, lower voter turn-out, fewer people run for office, and that false information spreads? Please join us for a discussion on Wednesday, September 21, at 7:00pm via Zoom, on the vital role that local journalism plays in preserving healthy democracies, building communities, and why not-for-profit community news centers may be the future of the industry. The panel will feature speakers from the Wednesday Journal and Growing Community Media including: Dan Haley, Editor and Publisher; Michael Romain, Editor and Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; and Melissa Elsmo, Editor of Oak Park Eats and Donor Relations Manager. Sign up here for this event with our partner, the Forest Park Library.

In 2020, America faced a record shortage of poll workers. In 2022, we’re already seeing the need for more poll workers. Our democracy depends on ordinary people who make sure every election runs smoothly and every vote is counted. You can help make sure we have safe, fair, and efficient elections for all: step up to become a poll worker in your community this year. Interested? Check it out here.

On August 26, people across the nation observed Women's Inequality Day.

LWV US partnered with allies across the equal rights space to create a video along with signing a letter in the Washington Post  demanding that our representatives:

1. Pass voting rights legislation;

2. Add the Equal Rights Amendment to the Constitution; and

3. Restore reproductive freedom to women and those who can become pregnant.

We may not be equal yet, but together we cannot be ignored.

View the 10 Best of the Best, One Earth Young Filmmakers Films from the past 10 years on Sunday, September 18, at 11:30am. Get free tickets here for the in-person event at the Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., Chicago. Or go here for the free tickets to view online. You can read more about the films here.

LWV Lake Michigan Region have scheduled Zoom events that will be state specific on the topics of Climate Change, PFAS, Invasive Species, and Coal Ash. These hour-long programs will educate members and the public about the issues impacting Lake Michigan in each of the four states. Each program is open to everyone, regardless of where you live. Dates and registration are as follows:

Thursday, September 8, 7:30pm, Indiana:  Register here

Thursday, September 15, 7:30pm, Wisconsin: Register here

Thursday, September 22, 7:30om, Illinois:  Register here

Thursday, September 29, 7:30pm, Michigan (Eastern time):  Register here

Programs will also be recorded.

Save the date of Saturday, October 22, which will be our next shared Donut Day fundraiser at the Oak Park Farmer’s Market. All those who volunteered last year can attest to it being a fun, worthwhile fundraiser. More details about signing up for a shift will be in next week's newsletter. For more information, contact Joan Petertil.

LWV US August 25 Update

LWV UMRR September Newsletter

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