Since 1961, the League of Women Voters San Bernardino has promoted informed and active participation in government, worked to enhance understanding of key public policy issues, and influenced public policy through education and advocacy. The LWVSB Education fund is a nonpartisan 501(C)3 and the LWVSB is a 501(C)4 like its state and national chapters.

Telephone: (909)838-2803

Contact any of the people below for any questions on San Bernardino Area League:

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What Is the League of Women Voters' Mission?

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, promotes informed and active participation in government, enhances understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.

What Does the League Do Now?

Since 1920, the League of Women Voters has been dedicated to improving government and engaging all Americans in decisions that affect their lives. Operating at national, state, and local levels through more than 800 Leagues across all 50 states, as well as in Washington, D.C., and the Virgin Islands, the League remains committed to its founding principles. We do not endorse or oppose political parties or candidates, but we are deeply involved in political issues.

Originally formed to secure the right to vote for women, the League's core mission is to expand participation and give a voice to all Americans. We engage in broad educational efforts and advocacy at all levels of government. Our work is rooted in a respected history of making democracy work for everyone.

Why Should I Support the League of Women Voters?

The League is unique because its achievements stem directly from member involvement. As a grassroots organization, we provide opportunities for members to learn, educate others, and take action on public policy. We believe in the importance of community participation to create a strong, safe, and vibrant society. Whether you contribute time, money, or both, your investment in democracy through the League has a significant impact.

Our members meet to discuss topics in a respectful environment, learn effective public discussion techniques, advocate on specific policies, and explore issues beneath the rhetoric. Our study and consensus process ensures that we are well-informed before taking a stand. We also host public forums and debates known for their fairness, transparency, and civility. This approach has earned the League a global reputation for integrity and thoroughness.

Participation in the League offers a range of experiences and issues that will enhance your understanding and open up new possibilities for civic engagement. You can choose your level of involvement, whether you aim for leadership roles or prefer to support experienced members. We offer webinars, conference calls, workshops, and other events throughout the year, at local, regional, state, and national levels.

What Is the History of the League of Women Voters?

At the National American Woman Suffrage Association's (NAWSA) 50th convention in St. Louis, Missouri, President Carrie Chapman Catt proposed creating a "league of women voters to finish the fight and aid in the reconstruction of the nation." The League was formed within NAWSA, comprising organizations from states where suffrage had been achieved. On February 14, 1920—six months before the 19th Amendment was ratified—the League was formally organized in Chicago as the national League of Women Voters.

Catt described the League's purpose: "The League of Women Voters is not to dissolve any present organization but to unite all existing organizations of women who believe in its principles. It is not to lure women from partisanship but to combine them in an effort for legislation which will protect coming movements, which we cannot even foretell, from suffering the untoward conditions which have hindered for so long the coming of equal suffrage. Are the women of the United States big enough to see their opportunity?"

Maud Wood Park, the first national president of the League, led the organization with a focus on legislative work, expanding its goals beyond women’s issues to include citizen education for all voters. The League has since helped millions of Americans become informed participants in government. Its early successes included the Sheppard-Towner Act for maternal and child care, and, in the 1930s, support for the Social Security and Food and Drug Acts. Additionally, the League's efforts contributed to removing federal jobs from the spoils system and placing them under Civil Service.

In the postwar period, the League was instrumental in establishing the United Nations and ensuring U.S. participation. It was one of the first organizations officially recognized by the United Nations as a non-governmental organization and maintains official observer status to this day.