We are thinking a lot about democracy these days as we watch everyday citizens in a relatively new democracy literally standing up in the streets to ward off a tank attack. Their love of country and bravery have captivated people all over the world.
I ask myself: Would I do that? It’s always hard to know what one would do in a real, rather than hypothetical, situation, but I’d like to think I would be as courageous as the people of Ukraine.
Fortunately, we are not facing that actual decision in our country today, but it brings home the idea that we must take to heart the League's motto -- “Make Democracy Work.”
The League, through its active members, fights for free and fair elections, open government, free public education, and more. It’s why we educate voters before an election about the candidates and issues on their ballot so they can make an informed decision. It’s why we write letters to our elected officials advocating for laws and policies for all people. And it's why we try to never forget how fragile democracy is if we don't all work together to protect it.
Invite new members
One step all of us can take to strengthen the League's ability to "Make Democracy Work" is to identify individuals who are also concerned about the future of the U.S. and ask them to join the League. We have much to do in election year 2022, and more hands on deck will help us expand our reach to more voters.
One good way to introduce the League is to invite potential members to the monthly Lunch With League events, such as the March 17 talk by Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee on our region's mental health crisis.
Congratulations to League member Vicki Alexander for her appointment to the District 5 unexpired seat on the Board of Directors of the Open Space Authority of Santa Clara Valley. We are so proud of you!
Finally, a special thank you to all who attended our Program Planning meeting in February. We had very vital conversations about the priorities we want to focus on in the next years to Make Democracy Work in our communities.
Stay safe and healthy,
Carol