The West Bend Current

There’s a reason why the League of Women Voters of Ozaukee and Washington County celebrates its founding on Valentine’s Day.

The non-partisan organization, which promotes participating in democracy, will recognize its 105th anniversary with Feb. 14 gatherings at many local libraries. The events, which are open to the public, will feature cake and discussion. Start times vary, but the West Bend Community Memorial Library location will kick off at 11 a.m. and last until 1 p.m.

Other locations include the Germantown Community Library and Cedarburg Library, hosting from 3-5 p.m. and the Kewaskum Public Library from 1-3 p.m.

The League of Women Voters was founded on Feb. 14, 1920 by a suffragette named Carrie Chapman Catt. She was an outspoken supporter of the 19th Amendment which gave women the right to vote. Prior to the passage of this amendment other suffragists, Catt included, used holidays such as Valentine’s Day to promote their message.

“I believe that Catt chose Valentine’s Day to honor that heritage, but more importantly, to illustrate her love for democracy and our country,” said Christy Schwan, president of the Ozaukee and Washington County chapter of the League.

Catt’s love of democracy has been carried on through the League’s dedicated members such as Schwan.

“I’m proud that the League is still at the forefront of national efforts to register and educate voters, and to secure voting rights for all US citizens,” Schwan said.

The League’s dedication to democracy extended beyond just the passage of the 19th Amendment and the group continues to work in support of voting rights for all citizens.

---

(Promotional material courtesy of the League of Women Voters.)