On the League’s 105th birthday, we’re not just celebrating, we’re fighting. You’ve seen President Trump’s relentless attacks on the fundamental tenets of our democracy: freezing federal funding, suspending refugee programs, eliminating DEI initiatives, enforcing aggressive immigration policies, and pushing voter ID laws, just to name a few. 

Through this, we remain standing shoulder to shoulder, resisting these relentless threats to our democracy. The barrage is designed to wear us down. But we refuse to break. Our democracy is only as strong as those who defend it, and together, we are unshakable.

I’ve been a League member for 56 years—more than half its lifetime. It has been one of the greatest loves of my life. And now, as Interim Executive Director, I see firsthand the power of this organization every day. We are not partisan, but we are political. And we are a trusted voice in Sacramento, influencing decisions that shape California’s future and protect us from federal policies aimed to weaken democracy. 

This work is deep, strategic, and built to last. Decades ago, we fought for independent redistricting—and today, we continue protecting it. Recently, an LWVC briefing paper shaped the vote on an important issue. And just last year, our testimony on the dangers of a Constitutional Convention helped shape legislation that keeps California from being a party to attempts to undermine our democracy. We continue to fight these efforts in the current legislative session. 

But, Amaris, democracy doesn’t run on goodwill and volunteers. It takes resources. When your house needs a new roof, you can just nail on new shingles or you can look deeper and also fix the failing rafters. It’s more work and more investment, but it ensures the structure stays strong for years to come. The same is true for democracy. The League’s small but mighty staff punches far above its weight, ensuring our voice remains powerful, effective, and unwavering. But we can’t do this work without you.

This is my love letter to the League. To the movement that has shaped me. To the community that stands up, fights back, and never gives in. If you believe in this work, in this LWVC, in this future, please invest in it today. Make a gift to the League of Women Voters of California, and together, we will keep building a democracy that stands the test of time.

With gratitude and determination,

Helen Hutchison
Interim Executive Director
League of Women Voters of California