Patricia Nugent August 7, 2022

“I read the news today, oh boy…”

That lyric isn’t the only throwback from the 1960s, when activists were challenging long-
standing social ills, taking to the streets for women’s rights, racial justice, gay rights. When war
was raging overseas and in our streets, when voting rights were denied, when the Klan openly
marched and lynched, and women bled to death in dirty backrooms. When illegal political tricks
were used to impact election results.

Here we are again. Back to the future.

We know you feel overwhelmed and exhausted. Didn’t we right those wrongs? The very reason
the League of Women Voters was founded over 100 years ago is the reason Americans are
marching and protesting today. As a national organization, we continue to be on the front lines
fighting voter suppression and reproductive restrictions. We are a voice for inclusive
democracy, for principles that honor and protect diversity.

The League is more relevant than ever today. There are more than 700 chapters in this country;
ours is one of the strongest, advocating and lobbying for legislation to protect human rights and
promote social justice. We have over 200 members, affording a political-yet-nonpartisan
opportunity to DO something rather than wring our hands as we listen to news reports of the
downturn this country is taking.

We’re distributing buttons that read “We Won’t Go Back!” And we won’t! Stop by one of our
events to get your free button, and wear it with pride and defiance. Please consider inviting a
friend who’s also wondering how to be an effective force for change. The greater our number,
the greater our ability to stand strong against oppression.