|
Happy 4th of July!
As we gather to celebrate with fireworks, food, and time with loved ones, let’s also take a moment to reflect on what this day truly means. On July 4th, 1776, theDeclaration of Independencemarked the beginning of a bold experiment: a nation built on the idea that all people are created equal and have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It’s a reminder not just of our freedom, but of our shared responsibility to live up to those ideals — today and every day.
LWV Council 2025: A Powerful Gathering for Democracy
Last week, LWV Texas Executive Director Aileen McMurrer and I had the privilege of attending LWV Council 2025, where we joined 120 League leaders and LWVUS staff from across the country. It was energizing, inspiring, and a powerful reminder of what it means to be part of a national movement committed to protecting and strengthening our democracy.
We are facing a moment of real urgency. Across the country, basic rights are being stripped away, and some in power are actively working to dismantle the foundations of our democratic system. We are, truly, in the midst of a constitutional crisis. At a time like this, the League’s voice and leadership are more critical than ever. OurUnite & Rise 8.5campaign is a direct response—a call to action that challenges all of us to organize, mobilize, and lead with purpose.
Throughout our history, America has struggled to fulfill the promise of equity for all. While many of us had hoped to see continued progress, we are instead witnessing a troubling backslide. Constitutional and human rights are under attack. The very principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging are being delegitimized and distorted. Even the term “DEI” has been weaponized—why? Because these values support a pluralistic, multiracial democracy where every person’s rights matter, and every voice counts. That vision challenges entrenched systems of privilege, and for some, that challenge feels threatening.
We must also acknowledge our own history. There were times when the League did not fully live up to the values we stand for today. But the 21st-century League can and must do better. And we will.
Our DEI Commitment: Putting Values into Action
At LWV Texas, we are deeply committed to putting our DEI values into practice. At every level we are working to remove barriers that limit full participation and representation. When we become a pluralistic, multiracial League, reflecting the diversity of our communities, we are stronger, more inclusive, and more effective in advancingour mission and vision. DEI is not a separate initiative; it is central to everything we do.
Unite & Rise 8.5: Building a Just and Inclusive Future
TheUnite & Rise 8.5campaign builds on that commitment. It’s about more than resisting anti-democratic forces—it’s about building the future we believe in. A future where transparency, civic engagement, equity, and inclusion are not only protected but strengthened. Through this campaign, Leagues across the country are coming together to educate, advocate, and organize—ensuring our democracy not only survives these challenges but emerges more inclusive, more just, and more resilient.
Together, we rise—to protect every voter, to defend every voice, and to move boldly toward a democracy that truly serves all.
In solidarity,
|