In 1920 the members of the new League of Women Voters decided that the best method of helping 20 million newly enfranchised women to carry out their new civic responsibilities was by neither supporting nor opposing any political party or candidate for public office. Over the years, this commitment has served the League well by making it a recognized force in molding political leaders shaping public policy and promoting informed citizen participation in government. Thousands of League members, scrupulously fair and honest in their dealings with everyone, have gone before us, reinforcing our reputation of being a highly trustworthy, unique organization. 

The mission statement of the League captures the essence of its 90-year history: "The League of Women Voters, a non-partisan political organization, encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy."

Members must carefully guard that ethic, ensuring that the trust others have in us is well placed. The Alachua County/Gainesville League of Women Voters has adopted the following non-partisan policies for its members.

I     GUIDELINES FOR MEMBERS

1. Members are encouraged to participate in all political activities as individuals.

2. People of differing political views should feel welcome at all League meetings. Therefore, political or candidate information will not be distributed by League members at League meetings.

3. League members should not distribute partisan material (candidates' flyers, etc.) along with League materials at the same time and place. League members are also asked to refrain from endorsing candidates or indicating party preference at League meetings.

4. Only the President or a person designated by the President may speak for the League. Members should not mention the League when expressing a partisan opinion.

II    GUIDELINES FOR ELECTED BOARD MEMBERS (Additional Guidelines for President and Voter Service Director in Section III)

1. The Board has the responsibility of maintaining the nonpartisanship policy of the organization.

2. Personal choices for party or candidates shall not be discussed at Board meetings.

3. Elected officials shall not hold Board positions.

4. Any Board member choosing to run for elective office must resign immediately upon publicly declaring their candidacy or filing to run for office.

5. The political activities of a spouse, partner or family member are considered separate and distinct from those of board members and no restrictions are necessary.

6. Board members may contribute to a candidate's campaign fund.

7. Board members may attend candidate fundraisers or rallies.

8. Board members may not host candidate fundraisers or rallies.

9. Board members may not serve as elected officers on party executive committees.

III    GUIDELINES FOR PRESIDENT AND VOTER SERVICE DIRECTOR IN ADDITION TO GUIDELINES I AND II

1. The President is the official representative and spokesperson of the Alachua County/Gainesville League of Women Voters. As such guidelines for non-partisanship for the President are more stringent. Similarly, the Voter Service Director should also follow stricter guidelines, as this person is the most visible League representative during the partisan election seasons.

2. The President and Voter Service Director may not publicly indicate their candidate choice (e.g., by displaying yard/car signs, wearing t-shirts/buttons, being listed in endorsements of particular candidates).

IV    TEAM LEADERS AND OFF-BOARD DIRECTORS WHO ARE APPOINTED ARE NOT BOUND BY GUIDELINES IN SECTION II ABOVE FOR ELECTED MEMBERS BUT ARE BOUND BY GUIDELINES SECTION I FOR THE GENERAL MEMBERSHIP.

Revised 11/2010