The League of Women Voters operates at three different levels: national, state, and local. In 1920, six months before the 19th Amendment to the Constitution was passed to grant women the right to vote, Carrie Chapman Catt founded the League during the convention of the National American Woman Suffrage Association. The goal of the new organization was to help educate the 20 million women who would take on the responsibility of voting for the first time.
As a national organization, the League of Women Voters educates its members and the general public regarding issues that affect citizens of the U.S. The League takes positions on issues after a thorough study and consensus and then advocates for those positions. However, as a nonpartisan organization, the League never endorses nor opposes candidates.
Today there are Leagues in all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Hong Kong.
The League of Women Voters of North Carolina – part of a national network, the League of Women Voters of the US – encourages informed and active participation in our democracy and influences public policy through advocacy and organizing. Our vision was formed more than 100 years ago by leaders of the women’s suffrage movement, and today we remain a strong nonpartisan, activist, grassroots organization that believes voters should play a critical role in democracy.
Our members – 2,000 strong in 18 local Leagues – are fighting to protect voting rights, promote voter registration, and ensure fair representation in North Carolina. As a part of the only national, nonpartisan organization with the operational capabilities to engage vast groups of voters around the country, the League is well-positioned to protect our vibrant democracy.
LWVNC, Inc. provides funding for NC Leagues to conduct research and prepare publications and materials. LWVNC holds forums and disseminates information and training to citizens. LWVNC, Inc. projects must present fair, objective, nonpartisan information to the general public. Projects cannot advocate for legislation or urge any action to affect legislation, and they cannot support candidates for office.
The League of Women Voters of Moore County was founded in 1984 and has over 130 members.