The League uses its positions to advocate on issues.

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization, encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government and influences public policy through education and advocacy. The League of Women Voters does not support or oppose any political party or any candidate. It does, however, take action on selected government issues in the public interest. 

The League of Women Voters takes action on an issue only when we have a position addressing that particular issue. A league position is established after members have studied an issue and achieved consensus on policies and practices that best serve the public interest.  Action includes lobbying, legislative testimony, public statements, media campaigns and joining coalitions. 

• League of Women Voters of the United States Positions
• League of Women Voters of California Positions
• League of Women Voters of the Bay Area Positions
• League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley Positions.
  Also see What We Stand For for a full list of LWVDV positions.

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Positions result from a process of study. Any given study, whether it be national, state, or local, is thorough in its pursuit of facts and details. As the study progresses, a continuing discussion of pros and cons of each situation occurs. Prior to the results of the study being presented to the general membership, study committee members fashion consensus questions that are then addressed by the membership. Additional discussion, pro and con, takes place as members (not part of the study committee) learn the scope of the study. After the members reach consensus, the board forms positions based on that consensus.

It is the consensus statement -- the statement resulting from the consensus questions -- that becomes a position. Firm action or advocacy can then be taken on the particular issue addressed by the position. Without a position, action/advocacy cannot be taken.