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Dear Friends,
The election left many heartbroken and with deep concern about the future of our country’s democratic principles. While many saw democracy as the existential issue of the campaign, this was not the case for a majority of voters and the American people have spoken. From LWVUS:
As we reflect on the election, we hold multiple truths.
- It was a fair and secure election marked by integrity, transparency, and high turnout. This is thanks to the dedication of poll workers, election officials, workers, and civic volunteers nationwide.
- This election has made the future for women unclear.
- Given the sexist, racist rhetoric heard throughout the campaign, we are deeply concerned about the challenges women, LGBTQIA+ people, immigrants, and other communities will face in the next administration.
Like you, we are still processing. Yet as we move forward, we are holding on to two more truths:
- We're thankful for the people who empowered millions of voters to make their voices heard, including League members nationwide.
- We remain steadfast in our commitment to advocating for women and our democracy.
The league notes that advocating gender and racial equity is not partisan. Calling out attacks on democracy is not partisan. LWVUS also understands that “organizations in the democracy space are in a period of recalibrating. They realize that the coming months and years will be an important time for allyship and partnership, and the League will need to show up in different ways.”
While there is uncertainty about how to organize and what actions to take, chaos seems certain. A member shared a passage, almost an invocation, from author Rebecca Solnit that talked about a moment of “furious mourning.” She reminds us that there is “no alternative to persevering, and that does not require you to feel good. You can keep walking whether it’s rainy or sunny.” We have held fast for 250 years and will carry on. You may need to mourn more, but none of what happened excuses us from civic duty, and there is power in action.
Demand that President Joe Biden publish the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). It's imperative that the prudent take action to ensure that the process of publishing the amendment is completed since it has been fully ratified since 2020. The ERA will protect against the rollback of rights, provide a vital tool for the judicial branch to decide sex discrimination cases, and pave the way for further legislative progress toward sex and gender quality. Take Action: Fight for Women's Equality — League of Women Voters of Illinois
Support the reintroduction of HR14 and S4, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, to fully restore and modernize the Voting Rights Act. Urge Your Members of Congress to Support the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act | League of Women Voters
Support the One Person One Vote campaign to move the nation beyond the Electoral College and toward true representation — a democracy powered by the people, for the people, and in the interim, help pass the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact by 2028. Join the LWVIL study group on gun violence prevention so we can advocate for more sensible gun laws.
Generations before us marked the season during uncertain times, and we will do the same. Christian scripture may bring joy. It is the Jewish season of light. Kwanza celebrates unity. We are a nation of plenty, and bountiful tables are a gift. Hot Dutch cocoa is a treat. And somewhere this month, a child will experience the magic of a first snowfall. Let gratitude find you.
Peace to you and your families.
Jane
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