League of Women Voters Calls For Greater Civic Participation

The League of Women Voters -Lake Forest/Lake Bluff marks the 220th anniversary of the adoption of the Bill of Rights on Dec. 15 with a call for inclusive political discourse and greater civic participation in our communities.

For more than 91 years, members of the League of Women Voters have defended civil liberties and promoted balanced, nonpartisan discussions on issues that are important to our communities, and we continue this work today. Our mission is to increase public participation - to help empower individuals to exercise the rights that are afforded to them through our democracy.

As we reflect back on 2011 and witness democratic movements take hold around the world, there is much to celebrate. But, it is also a reminder that we cannot take our liberties for granted.

Every day, League members work in our communities to protect our liberties by encouraging voting, discussing critical issues, and holding elected officials accountable for their action and decisions. In the highly partisan environment throughout our nation, our role in creating a 'safe' venue where all sides of the issues can be discussed civilly and thoughtfully is more critical than ever.

We encourage all to participate civilly and make their voices and opinions heard; it's our right!

Protection of the individual liberties laid out in the Bill of Rights has been central to the League's work throughout its history. During World War II, the League worked to balance the preservation of civil liberties with the importance of national security.

During the Communist "witch hunt" period of the early 1950s, the League conducted a community education program know as the Freedom Agenda, providing Americans with the opportunity to discuss and learn about the Bill of Rights.

More recently, League members have promoted a diverse and independent judiciary, advocated against harmful elements of the PATRIOT Act, and worked for government transparency and accountability.

For more information, or to join, visit WWW.LWV-LFLB.ORG

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Membership is open to men and women of all ages.