Our Mission

The League of Women Voters works to empower voters, build participation in the democratic process, increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influence public policy through education and advocacy. We welcome men and women to join our efforts to build a strong democracy. We never support or oppose candidates or political parties.

Primary Community Efforts

• Registering voters
• Moderating local candidate forums and debates
• Conducting state proposition presentations
• Providing voters with Election Information and Resources

League History

In her address in 1919 to the National American Woman Suffrage Association's (NAWSA) 50th convention in St. Louis, Missouri, President Carrie Chapman Catt proposed the creation of a "league of women voters to finish the fight and aid in the reconstruction of the nation." Women Voters was formed within the NAWSA, composed of the organizations in the states where suffrage had already been attained. On February 14, 1920 - six months before the 19th amendment to the Constitution was ratified - the National League was formally organized in Chicago as the League of Women Voters. Catt described the purpose of the new organization:

Since its inception, the League has helped millions of women and men become informed participants in government. Some of the first recommendations to Congress for legislation were:

• Protection for women and children
• Right of working women
• Food supply and demand
• Social hygiene
• The legal status of women
• American citizenship

During the postwar period, the League helped lead the effort to establish the United Nations and to ensure US Participation. The League was one of the first organizations in the country officially recognized by the United Nations as a non-governmental organization; it still maintains official observer status today.

See the History section of the League of Women Voters of the US website. 

LWV South San Mateo County

The League of Women Voters of South San Mateo County was founded in 1955. We serve the cities of Atherton, East Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Portola Valley, Redwood City, and Woodside. We welcome men and women to join our efforts to build a strong democracy.

LWVSSMC Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors is a dedicated group of League members who provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for our League, ensuring that our mission and values are upheld with integrity and dedication.

Committed to fostering positive social impact and advancing the League's cause, the board collaboratively oversees the operations, finances, and policies, working diligently to ensure sustainable growth, transparency, and accountability.

Each Board member is voted into office by the membership every two years at our Annual Meeting.

2023-24 LWVSSMC Board of Directors
LWVSSMC By-Laws
LWVSSMC Positions

Latest News

	The Voter is a monthly newsletter that details the activities of LWV South San Mateo County.
	Get the latest news from LWV California.
	Get the latest news from LWV National.