League of Women Voters of Indiana

The League of Women Voters of Indiana is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization and a state-level affiliate of the League of Women Voters, a national organization. It was founded in 1920, shortly after women gained the right to vote, as an outgrowth of the Woman's Franchise League of Indiana, which originated from the Woman's School League in 1911[1][4].

Mission and Activities

The League's primary mission is to encourage informed and active participation in government through education and advocacy while remaining nonpartisan. It focuses on voter service, citizen education, and policy advocacy. The organization works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and influences public policy through careful study and documentation of issues before taking positions[1][5].

Organizational Structure

The League operates on three levels: national, state, and local. Membership in a local League automatically includes membership in the League of Women Voters of Indiana and the League of Women Voters of the United States. This structure allows for a coordinated effort across different regions to address both local and national issues[5].

Issues and Advocacy

Historically, the League of Women Voters of Indiana has been active on a wide range of issues including civil rights, education, foreign policy, healthcare, conservation, child welfare, and voting rights[1][4]. The League has supported landmark legislation such as the Sheppard-Towner Act and the Child Labor Amendment, and has played a role in promoting international cooperation, particularly in the post-World War II era[1][4].

State and Local Initiatives

At the state and local levels, the League engages in voter registration drives, sponsors debates and forums, and provides voter guides like Vote411.org to facilitate informed participation in elections[5]. Local leagues are active in various counties and cities, conducting activities tailored to regional needs and issues.

Continuing Role in Democracy

Today, the League of Women Voters of Indiana remains an active civic organization dedicated to protecting voting rights and fostering democratic engagement across all communities in the state[1][5]. Its commitment to promoting political responsibility and informed participation continues to be pivotal in shaping public policy and governance in Indiana.

[1] https://indianahistory.org/wp-content/uploads/league-of-women-voters-of-indiana-records-addition.pdf [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/League_of_Women_Voters [3] https://my.lwv.org/ohio/cincinnati-area/about-us/history-league-women-voters [4] https://indianahistory.org/wp-content/uploads/league-of-women-voters-of-indiana-records-1908.pdf [5] https://my.lwv.org/indiana/south-bend-area/about