LWVMA PRESIDENT DIANE JEFFERY SPEAKS AT BRAINSTORM BRUNCH
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The Winchester League was honored to have Diane Jeffery, President of the League of Women Voters of Massachusetts as the keynote speaker at its annual “Brainstorm Brunch” on Sunday, January 25th at The Ledges Common Room.
Ms. Jeffery spoke briefly on the League’s overall history, the organizational structure and activities of the Massachusetts League, and then moved to the first topic of discussion: How can local Leagues boost membership? Here are just a few ideas she suggested:
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Make a point of inviting guests to all your local events, such as your local candidate forum.
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Know your town, your audience, and where your members come from.
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Bring guests to exciting events organized by the State League, such as
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Day on the Hill – March 4, 2009 – hear speakers on this year’s theme, “Transparency in Government” and visit the office of YOUR Representative or Senator afterward to lobby for League positions.
Guardian of Democracy Dinner – March 12, 2009 – honoring Paul Guzzi, former Secretary of the Commonwealth – the first to publish the “red book” describing ballot questions, and establish a “voter hotline.”
Online Student Essay Contest Awards – April 5, 2009 – at Fanueuil Hall where winning students read their essays.
These events provide social, inspirational, and educational opportunities that appeal to new members as well as being cornerstone activities of the State League.
Diane’s talk also pointed out the support the state League provides to local Leagues, such as:
- study groups which help develop consensus and formulate League positions on issues;
- lobbying lawmakers in support of League positions;
- working with local Leagues to surface local questions which the state League could take a position on;
- working at the state convention to identify issues to study; and developing resources for local Leagues on topics of interest such as recruitment and fundraising.
Her final observation was that a healthy democracy requires engaged citizens. The League focuses on voter services and education: “Democracy is not a spectator sport!”
After Diane spoke, brainstorming continued on how best to advertise the Winchester League’s interests, meetings and activities. Many good suggestions came forward, including maximizing publicity in the Winchester Star, as well as connecting with other community-active groups and their email networks to get more young families and high school students involved in League activities.
Before the meeting closed, there was a quick review of the state program positions, to identify those which our League recommends be retained, amended or dropped, for purposes of State Program planning for the 2009-2011 biennium. Discussion focused on Voting Systems, Day Care, Casino Gambling, and Reproductive Choice, with pro and con comments expressed; in the end, all 19 positions were voted to be retained.
A delicious brunch was provided by the members of the Steering Committee for the 21 members and guests in attendance.
-Jo-Ann Michalak, Sue Wankowicz and Vicky Coccoluto contributed to this article
