LWVN Nonpartisan Policy 2007-2008
Purpose - The purpose of this policy is to enable the League as an organization to carry on with service to voters, information to citizens, and lobbying and campaigning on issues. The policy distinguishes between the League as an organization and the rights of its individual members.
General - The League of Women Voters of Newton is a nonpartisan organization that does not support or oppose any political party or candidate. The League's effectiveness lies in its ability to take strong positions on issues in the public interest, without regard for partisan affiliation. The League also encourages participation in local government by informing the citizens of Newton about their rights and responsibilities as voters.
The Policy as it applies to Members - The League prides itself on having a membership composed of diverse, informed women and men. Its individual members are encouraged to participate fully in party politics and in government at all levels. Many League members have strong affiliations with political parties or candidates, or are elected officials themselves.
The Policy as it applies to Board Members - The President, Vice Presidents, Voters Service Chair, Newsletter Editor, Education Chair and Local Action Chairs shall not engage in visible support of local political candidates. Board members should use discretion to ensure that their personal political activities are not identified with the League in the public mind. Candidates for local elected office and their campaign managers cannot serve on the Board of Directors. If any questions arise regarding the non-partisan policy, the matter will come before the Board for interpretation and discussion. If a Board member resigns from the Board because of a conflict of this policy, that member shall not return to the Board until after the next Annual Meeting. Final decisions about implementing this non-partisan policy rest with the Board of Directors.
Approved 6/27/07