Message from President Jane Ruby
The League of Women Voters of Chicago convened its Annual Meeting on Saturday, June 24. The event was a celebration of our shared commitment to democracy, civic engagement, and the advancement of voting rights for all. It was a pleasure and honor to stand before the assembled members as the president of the League, alongside the passionate and dedicated individuals who so generously donate their time and energy to serving on our board, on committees, and as volunteers.
In these unsettled political times, the importance of the League and its mission have never been more evident. As Leaguers and as voters, we continue to shape the course of our city, state, and nation by championing the values we hold dear. Through our unwavering advocacy, we strive to ensure that every voice is heard, every vote counts, and every individual in our great republic can exercise her fundamental rights freely and without fear.
For more than a century, the League has been a bulwark of democracy, and over the past year, we continued to honor that tradition. Through voter education, community outreach, and policy initiatives, we have empowered the people of Chicago to participate actively in the democratic process. Here are just some of the highlights of the last year:
Two election cycles
22 candidate forums, including two televised mayoral forums
That’s quite a list of accomplishments, one we all can be proud of. Yet, as we reflect on our recent successes, we must also take time to set our sights on the path ahead.
Our work is far from complete. As we face new challenges and opportunities, we must remain steadfast in our dedication to the democratic principles that underpin the peace and prosperity of our society. We must continue to fight against voter suppression, to promote transparency in elections, and to stand up for the rights of all free people to have their voices heard and collective will enacted by their duly elected representatives.
Our League's mission guides us forward, inspiring us to be the catalysts for positive change across the length and breadth of Chicago. There is always more work to be done, but we are blessed to live in the “City of the Big Shoulders”; we know how to do the heavy lifting needed to keep our democratic system chugging.
I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support and commitment. The League of Women Voters of Chicago thrives because of the passion, knowledge, and energy that our members bring to our organization. I would like also to acknowledge and thank the following League members for their service this year:
Board Members
Catherine Mardikes
Betty Magness
Helene Gabelnick
Shirley Michaelson*
Tracy Stanciel
Hollis Burgess
Vanessa Bush Ford*
Julia Kline
Molly Bartlett*
Wytress Richardson
Debby Halpern
Sharon Welch
Tina Brady Pettis
Elona Vaisnys*
Diane Atkinson
Committee Chairs
Environment: Debby Halpern & Claudia Jackson
City Government: Margaret Herring
Communications: Vanessa Bush Ford*
Diversity & Inclusion: Wytress Richardson
Education: Rae Sokolow
Membership: Elona Vaisnys*
Fund Development: Molly Bartlett*
Voter Service: Helene Gabelnick
Events: Sharon Welch
Unit Leaders
Northside: Ann McKenzie
Southside: Catherine Mardikes & Melanie Norstrom
Far Southside: Diane Atkinson
Loop: Marjy Gilbert
* denotes someone leaving their League position
I would also like to thank Sophie Mucciaccio for all her work on communications, Club Express, social media, and so many other things that help our League work, and Karen Sandrick for her work leading our newsletter. And welcome Chris Ruys, who will be taking over as newsletter editor.
Finally, I extend the League’s thanks to all the donors who have contributed to our capital campaign. Without your generous contributions, the League could not continue to do its important work.
Thank you all again and I look forward to this upcoming year. Together, we have the power to shape the future, to build a society where equality reigns and the voices of all are heard.