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"Unite and Rise 8.5" campaign (million people) is the National League of Women Voters (LWV) theme in 2026. Saturday, Aug 8 is set to mark the legacy and honor of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the ongoing work required to protect and expand access to the ballot.
PA League of Women Voters Executive Director Amy Widestrom says, "America turns 250 years to extend the promise of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The 19th amendment secured women's right to vote in 1920, and this was a victory that changed the shape of American democracy forever. But the rights are not as secure as we believe."
The Voting Rights Act can significantly be weakened as states have started making it harder to vote. The League cited an example is gerrymandering continues to allow legislators to draw voting maps that benefit their own election. Empowering people to choose their own fair voting district representative at state and nation level is the heart of our democracy. The PA LWV partners with Fair District PA with legislation to stop gerrymandering.
Right now, the local league is focused on protecting the right to vote, along with the PA and National LWV. New legislation has been proposed that would use fear of noncitizens SAVE Act (Safeguarding Am Voter Eligibility) by requiring documentary proof of citizenship from every citizen with documents including passports (currently approimately $165), birth certificates, or naturalization papers. According to Celia Stewart, President of National LWV, court cases and studies have shown that voter fraud is extremely rare across states with their current registration process.
Voter turnout regarding the presidential election has reached some of the highest levels over a century. Mail-in and early voting have expanded access in states across the country. Young people are registering at rates that signal a new generation taking civic life seriously. The Warren LWV holds countywide voter registration opportunities in high schools and communities. Educational programs are offered year around on voting issues.
On Aug. 19, the Warren LWV hosts a meet and greet members and their guests at the Conewango Club in Warren to learn more about local league work. RSVP with Sallyb228@hotmail.com or at 814 730 8629. Or go to www.lwvwc.org or email>lwvwc@yahoo.com for more information.