From Thursday, June 23, to Sunday, June 26, I sat in front of my computer from 7:00 a.m. until late afternoon. What an exciting experience being with 600-plus fellow virtual Leaguers from states throughout the country, using Zoom chat to give opinions, ask questions, and, at the appropriate time, vote by means of clicking on a voting link.

I was inspired the first day with the opening presentation by LWVUS President Dr. Deborah Turner, followed by a Women Power Democracy panel with messages to partner with other organizations and go into communities to build relationships outside our comfort zone. We were encouraged to turn our frustrations into actions. We have a choice to defend or to demand democracy.

Throughout Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, caucuses were held on particular issues. Our own Immigration Committee, working with other Leagues, developed a resolution on immigration approved by the convention. The LWVUS Climate Plan Team, under the leadership of Kathy Berlin and together with several other Leagues from across the country, gave an outstanding presentation on the “10 Actions” that governments can take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They also succeeded in getting their resolution approved by the convention.

My takeaway from the convention is this: I am proud to be a member of our League of Women Voters Pasadena Area, our state league (LWVC), our L.A. County League, and our national League (LWVUS). Despite evident incursions on our rights by recent Supreme Court decisions, stagnation in the Senate, and other disappointments, we do still have pathways to strengthen our democracy and the spirit to fight on.

—Dorothy L Keane