Defending Democracy In Maryland

At the League of Women Voters of Maryland, defending democracy isn’t just a moment — it’s our mission. Democracy is shaped and safeguarded by the people who show up, speak out, and stand together. With civil liberties under attack and democratic values on the line, we’re stepping up with action, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to protecting every voice in Maryland.

We’re lifting the curtain on the everyday work that keeps democracy going, from expanding access to the ballot to building coalitions that advance equity, accountability, and inclusion. Here’s how we put our mission into action.

Fighting for Voting Rights

Defending the freedom to vote is core to LWVMD’s mission, and in 2025, that means taking action on every front. This year, LWVMD championed a transformative package of Maryland Voting Rights Bills, advocating to restore voting rights for incarcerated individuals, automatically re-register returning citizens, and empower communities to challenge voter suppression and racial gerrymandering. We also helped secure the passage of HB 983, establishing a Language Assistance Program to ensure voters with limited English proficiency can fully participate in our democracy.

And we didn’t stop there. LWVMD pushed for pro-voter reforms like curbside voting, special elections to fill vacancies, and transparency requirements for local election boards. At the same time, we helped stop multiple voter suppression bills, including efforts to impose strict ID laws and new barriers to in-person voting. 

From expanding access to stopping suppression, our work is driven by one goal: ensuring every Marylander can make their voice heard at the ballot box.

Educating and Empowering Voters

Defending democracy doesn’t stop at the ballot box — it begins with ensuring voters have the tools and information they need to participate confidently. That’s why LWVMD is committed to nonpartisan voter education that cuts through the noise and puts the facts front and center.

Through our Voters’ Guides and VOTE411.org, we provide factual, unbiased information about candidates, ballot questions, and how to vote. We meet voters where they are and help them navigate every step of the process.

Across the state, our Local Leagues are registering voters, hosting candidate forums, and showing up in their communities to ensure every Marylander has the information and support they need to participate fully. From classrooms and community centers to panel discussions and webinars, we’re making sure Marylanders have what they need to make their voices heard, and make their votes count.

Building Power Through Collective Action

Democracy is in motion every day in the policies we shape, the coalitions we build, and the communities we mobilize. LWVMD’s advocacy goes far beyond elections, because democracy demands equity, accountability, and inclusion in every corner of public life.

Whether we’re testifying in Annapolis, leading coalitions, or working with state and local officials, we fight for policies that reflect the needs of Marylanders — from environmental protections and equitable transportation to criminal justice reform, public education, and healthcare access. As a trusted nonpartisan voice, LWVMD brings together diverse groups to align strategy, share resources, and drive meaningful policy change.

We also create opportunities for Marylanders to connect, learn, and take action by hosting events like our Making Democracy Work Breakfast, organizing town halls and webinars, and sharing resources on everything from protest safety to the impact of AI-driven disinformation. Through education and empowerment, we help communities become not just defenders of democracy, but active participants in shaping its future.

How You Can Make an Impact

You have the power to shape the future of our democracy — and we need your voice. Whether you’ve been involved for years or are just getting started, there’s a way for you to make an impact. Here’s how you can get involved:

Join the League

Join a passionate network of Marylanders working to Empower Voters and Defend Democracy in their communities. Whether you want to stay informed, volunteer occasionally, or take on a leadership role, there’s space for you here.  Find Your League »

Take Action

Take action when it counts. From contacting legislators to speaking out on urgent issues, our Action Alerts keep you informed and ready to act on the issues that matter most. Each alert is an opportunity to make your voice heard.  Get Action Alerts »

Learn & Engage

Be part of the conversation. From webinars to public forums, LWVMD events bring people together to dive into the issues, share ideas, and build civic power. Join us live or explore our content library of past events to stay updated on the issues that matter.  Discover Events & Resources »

Support Our Mission

LWVMD is on the front lines of the fight for democracy — standing up for voting rights, civil liberties, and accountable government in Maryland. We can’t slow down, and we can’t do it without you. Donate now to protect democracy and power the work ahead.  Donate to LWVMD »

The Work Continues

Democracy isn’t a given — it’s a responsibility. It takes people who are willing to keep showing up, stay informed, speak out, and bring others along. 

Every voter we reach matters. Every policy we shape matters. Every action, big or small, helps build a democracy that works for all of us. When we come together to advocate, educate, and organize, we make our communities stronger and our government more accountable.

For over 100 years, LWVMD has been doing just that — showing up, speaking out, and fighting for a stronger democracy in Maryland. This work isn’t always easy, and it’s never finished. But it’s how we move forward. Because democracy isn’t something we win once — it’s something we keep working for, every day.