Introduction to the League: Action!
by the Adminintrative Vice President
League Action is often thought of as "Action Alerts" from the national League of Women Voters (LWV) or "Calls to Action" from the State League. But our League work on the Monterey Peninsula is also action. For instance, LWV of the Monterey Peninsula members take action when we:
* Testify before a local governing body.
* Express League opinions on radio or TV or in the printed press.
* Participate in or hold a town hall meeting on a timely local issue.
* Talk to a friend about League positions.
The League acts both on current program positions and on core principles. How we act - the process used both in making action decisions and in taking action - is what makes the League unique.
Since its inception, the League has worked for change, taking action as an essential follow-up to study and consensus of members on issues. The Board of Directors approves action on local issues. Action on California and National issues is at the request of, or with the consent of, those levels of the League.
The fact that we are members not only of our local League, but also of the LWV of California and the LWV of the United States makes us a powerful constituency when the League acts in concert.
There are really two types of action:
* Official Action. This is action taken in the name of the League by the President or authorized representatives and approved by the appropriate League Board. It is confined to League positions. When taking official action, the League speaks with one voice, the voice of a substantial majority, as expressed in consensus.
* Member Action. The role of the member in action is vital. We urge each member to stay informed and to take action as an individual in support of League positions. Your action may be letters, phone calls, or personal contacts with elected or appointed government officials and their staffs. At times, you will be asked to respond to an official League "Call To Action", often on specific legislation. You are also urged to attend public hearings and legislative sessions, especially those at which League testimony is being given in order to demonstrate support for the League.
The source for the above was <www.lwvc.org> and <www.lwvmp.org>.
