LWVSNM PROGRAM

The term “Program” is a term used by the League of Women Voters to denote policy issues that are proposed for study with the goal of reaching a consensus on a position or a concurrence with a position of another League. In addition, the purpose of having a local Program is to educate and empower citizens to be more civically engaged in our democracy.  Yearly, League members will identify and study one-to-three issues important to the local community and will then set relevant advocacy and action priorities.

Local Program Priorities for 2022/23

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

“Continue to monitor the activities of affordable housing providers in the community, advocate for increases in the amount of such housing including working to identify funding sources, lobby for appropriate changes in city ordinances, and educate the public about affordable housing issues.”

Affordable Housing is chaired by League member Beth Bardwell.

Read the League’s Position Statements, which includes additional information about Affordable Housing.

EDUCATION

“Facilitate, review and update the existing position on Education.  Advocate for high quality, equitable education for all students.”‘

Education is chaired by Co-President Eileen VanWie.

Read the League’s Position Statements which includes additional information about Education.

 

BRANIGAN MEMORIAL LIBRARY

“Review and update the existing position on Branigan Memorial Library in Las Cruces so that it accounts for changes in library services throughout the community over the past 15 years.  Provide input to the development of the Branigan Library master plan.

Branigan Library Program is chaired by Co-President Kathy Brook.

Read the League’s Position Statements which includes additional information about Branigan Library.

Other Areas of Interest

COUNTY GOVERNMENT

LWV members and others throughout Southern New Mexico can benefit from a better understanding of how county government works.  In particular, counties play a significant role in addressing the needs of underserved rural populations. Hold at least one meeting to discuss how we might approach this topic in a longer-term study.

Read the League’s Position Statements which includes County Government

JEDI: JUSTICE, EQUITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

LWVSNM is an organization fully committed to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in principle and in practice. Justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion are central to the organization’s current and future success in engaging all individuals, households, communities, and policymakers to strengthen democracy. A strategic action plan is being developed with a vision that seeks to prevent and reduce poverty in order to develop a well-functioning democracy. This includes increasing diversity in LWVSNM membership related to ethnicity, age, and needed skills. Advocating for economic and income equity through a variety of elements, such as education, health care, living wages, and job opportunities, is essential to reach the vision goal.

VOTER SERVICES

Provide VOTE411/Voters’ Guides and candidate forums for major elections; engage with legislators before the legislative sessions concerning LWV priorities; update the Who’s Who Directory of Elected Officials.”

The Chair of the Voter Services Committee is Dale Yeo.  Several volunteers are regularly needed throughout the year for this committee.  Contact Dale if you can assist in any way.