Our Nation
“This past week has been upsetting. Like so many of you, I am closely following the protests in Los Angeles and those in other cities. I believe that we are witnessing a tipping point and a crisis in our democracy: the President is deploying federal forces to silence peaceful protestors and referring to anyone raising their voice against inhumane immigration raids as an insurrectionist. The administration is not just intimidating protesters into silence but blatantly disregarding the checks and balances that keep our democracy fair. In response to the President’s deployment of the National Guard over the weekend, LWVUS issued a statement with the League of Women Voters of California. I encourage you to read it now on our website. “.. Diana Wynn, LWV President.
The League of Women Voters’ Unite & Rise 8.5 initiative aims to mobilize 8.5 million voters using the power of voter engagement as a cornerstone of our democracy. Unite & Rise 8.5 showcases the many ways voters can drive change through advocacy, mobilization, civic education, and engagement. We need you to be a part of this movement and help us grow this network of 8.5 million people who pledge to defend our democracy.
Join the movement today by taking the Unite & Rise 8.5 Pledge!
Everyone Has a Role in the Movement for Democracy
As we approach June 14, a national day of Citizen Power, Community Presence, and Civic Engagement, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all League members and supporters who are showing up—each in their own way—for our democracy.
Movements are sustained not by a single act, but by the collective strength of many contributions. As advocates for inclusion, we recognize—drawing from the wisdom of Disability Justice leaders like Audre Lorde, Alice Wong, Patty Berne, and Mia Mingus—that movements thrive when we honor all forms of participation, and falter when we expect everyone to engage in the same way.
In the words of Bill Moyers, a healthy and sustainable movement requires a full ecosystem of roles. No contribution is too small. No role is less important. Whether you're showing up in visible ways or working behind the scenes, your participation matters. Here’s how you might see yourself in the movement:
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The Citizen helps shift the mainstream toward justice by engaging in everyday acts of public expression and communication. This includes writing letters to the editor (for both mainstream and independent media), posting on social media, sharing vital information within your community, participating in vigils, storytelling, and engaging in meaningful conversations. This role is especially vital for individuals whose access or capacity may make other forms of activism less feasible. Every conversation matters—small actions add up.
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The Reformer works within institutions to create systemic change. This includes lobbying, public advocacy, filing lawsuits, organizing campaigns, and promoting civic accountability. Reformers frequently testify at public hearings, attend government meetings, and strive to ensure that policy decisions reflect the needs of their communities. Use your access—contact your elected officials, speak at city council meetings. Your voice matters in every room where decisions are made. Make those 5 calls.
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The Rebel disrupts the status quo through protests, marches, sit-ins, and direct action. This role draws attention to urgent issues and often serves as a catalyst for raising public awareness and prompting institutional responses.
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The Change Agent shifts hearts and minds through art, political education, healing spaces, mutual aid, and storytelling. Culture work is movement work. It keeps people connected when times get hard and helps sustain our collective energy for the long road ahead.
We invite each of you to reflect on where you feel called to contribute—and to step into that role with purpose and pride. Whether you’re educating, organizing, advocating, or caring, your work is essential to the movement to protect and strengthen our democracy.
Guidance for League Members Attending Rallies and Protests
The League of Women Voters believes that the freedom to assemble and protest is a vital part of our democratic system. Many of you may be considering participating in actions on or around June 14, as citizens across the country mobilize to defend democracy.
While protest is a powerful tool for change, it also comes with risks. Whether organized by the League or another group, participation is voluntary and at your own discretion. Please take a moment to review the important safety and legal guidance below.
Disclaimer
If you choose to participate in a protest or rally coordinated by the League of Women Voters of the United States or another organization, you do so at your own risk. You are solely responsible for your safety and any consequences that may arise from your participation. The League assumes no liability or responsibility.
Important Context
Even peaceful events can shift quickly. Demonstrations may attract opposition or a law enforcement response. No matter how much you prepare, there is always a possibility of arrest, injury, or other consequences. We encourage all participants to educate themselves and take precautions.
Resources to Support Your Safety and Rights
A Caveat about the June 14 National Action - “No Kings Rallies and Protests”
The League is not an official national partner of the June 14 No Kings nationwide action. The sponsors’ messaging for this event appears to focus more on individual political figures than on public policy, which does not align with our nonpartisan mission. While we support the right of individuals to participate, this is not a League-sponsored event.
If you choose to attend, we kindly request that you refrain from wearing League-branded items or identifying yourself as representing the League. Please follow ACLU guidelines, know your rights, and prioritize your safety.
We are grateful to all members of our community who engage in civic action to protect democracy. Whether you're participating in person or supporting from home, your commitment to building a just and inclusive future is valued and essential.
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