Freeport’s local chapter of the League of Women Voters has existed since the 1920s, but it is still working actively in the community today.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization which was founded 100 years ago. Its founding was linked to the passage of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote.
Freeport’s local chapter has registered around 500 new voters in Freeport and the surrounding area since early 2017. The group promotes voter registration, but also encourages citizens to become informed on relevant issues. In the last three years, the group has hosted guest speakers who have discussed issues such as voter suppression, campaign finance reform, and the environment.
In the leadup to the 2020 federal elections, which will likely be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization plans to encourage mail-in voting and early options. They also intend to offer rides for individuals who need to vote in-person.
Sharon Koch, a member of the Freeport chapter’s executive team, told The Voice that the group’s main purpose “is to educate and inform. We do not take sides on political candidates.” She said that voting is a responsibility for all citizens. “The Constitution will not uphold itself: get out and vote!”
Any readers interested in learning more about the League of Women Voters’ future events and mission should email Koch at sharona68@hotmail.com.
