As election season ramps up, so does the League of Women Voters.
The Westport chapter of the 105-year-old national non-partisan grassroots organization plays a key role in registering voters, and providing information about candidates and issues.
“This is not just ‘go out and vote,'” says Velma Heller, a longtime LWV member, current vice president overseeing voter education, and former moderator of Westport’s non-partisan Representative Town Meeting.
“It’s about knowing who and what you’re voting for.”
But they can’t do it alone.
The LWV has a full calendar — “meet the candidates” events, debates, and more — scheduled from now through Election Day. Details are below.
Many are co-sponsored with other town organizations. They include this “06880” blog, the Westport Library and its Common Ground Initiative, Senior Center, Westport Youth Commission and Y’s Men.
Staples High School students — even those too young to vote — get involved. Groups range from the Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society and Civic Leaders of America club, to the Service League of Boys (Known as SLOBs, they hand out the very popular “I Voted” stickers at polling places.)
A SLOB at work, at last year’s election. (Photo/Dan Woog)
It’s still (relatively) early in the campaign. The League of Women Voters encourages other community groups to “join forces with us to create the strongest foundation for our town and democracy,” says president Joan Gillman.
That foundation “informs, engages and empowers citizens to understand our issues, our candidates, and the importance of every vote.” Email lwvwestportct@yahoo.com for more information.
Meanwhile, here’s what the LWV — and their partners — are working on. Mark your calendar!
- “A Conversation with 1st & 2nd Selectperson Candidates”: September 26, 2 p.m., Senior Center.
- “Fall Brunch & Design a Sign: Meet Your RTM Candidates”: October 4, 10 a.m. to noon Westport Library. The event includes coffee, donuts, snacks, and art activities to keep kids occupied. Co-sponsored by “06880.”
- “Selectmen Candidates” (October 14, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall); co-sponsored with Westport Youth Commission. Special event for students; adults invited too.
- “A Conversation with Board of Finance Candidates”: October 15, 2 p.m., Senior Center.
- “Board of Education”: October 22, 7 p.m., Toquet Hall
- “Planning & Zoning Commission”: October 23; site TBD.
- “Candidates Debates: Board of Education, Zoning Board of Appeals, Board of Assessment Appeals, Board of Finance”: October 27, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library.
- “Candidates Debate: 1st Selectman and Planning & Zoning Commission”: October 28, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library.
PS: Despite its name — and its birth in the aftermath of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote — the League of Women Voters welcomes participation by men too.
PPS: Two other events of note — though not co-sponsored by the LWV — both take place on October 21, at the Westport Library.
At noon, the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce sponsors a 1st and 2nd selectperson candidates debate.
At 6 p.m., the 1st selectman hopefuls return, for “A Seat at the Selectman’s Table.” Over food that they bring, Kevin Christie, Don O’Day, David Rosenwaks and I will enjoy a wide-ranging discussion about who they are as people. No podiums, no policies — just personal experiences, and personalities. Click here to register, and for more information.
Earlier — on October 6 (6:30 p.m., Christ & Holy Trinity Church), the 3 first selectman candidates will discuss sustainability and the environment.The forum is co-sponsored by Sustainable Westport and Earthplace.
