FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 14, 2020
Contact: Ashley Oleson - 410-269-0232 - [email protected]
Annapolis – The League of Women Voters of Maryland (LWVMD) turns 100 years old on February 14, 2020, and to celebrate, LWVMD members launched a #FairMapsValentine Campaign online and by delivering a Fair Maps Valentine to every member of the Maryland General Assembly.
The #FairMapsValentine campaign asks state legislators to “Bring Maryland communities back together again” by passing the Fair Maps Act (SB 967/HB 1431) sponsored by Sen. Mary Washington and Del. Jheanelle Wilkins.
“The League was founded by suffrage leaders 100 years ago who fought for the power of women to make their voices heard through their vote,” said LWVMD state director, Ashley Oleson. “So today we’re continuing that legacy by fighting to ensure the voices of all Marylanders are protected and lifted up in our elections.”
The Fair Maps Act seeks to ensure Maryland Congressional districts adhere to the same standards of compactness and contiguity that legislative districts already do, and they respect natural boundaries and political subdivisions. More than that, the bill seeks to reinforce the protections of the Voting Rights Act, which has been under attack in recent years at the federal level, and institute state level protections for diverse communities during the state’s redistricting process.
“For 100 years, Leagues have worked with legislators for the betterment of our democracy, said Nancy Soreng, LWVMD board member, “today we are asking our legislators to support the Fair Maps Act as a tribute to our ongoing work together.”
“We’re celebrating our history by taking action for our future,” said Lois Hybl, LWVMD co-president of the board. “Our founders achieved the impossible by getting the 19th Amendment passed 100 years ago, so today we honor their fight by continuing to push our democracy forward so that every voter can play a critical role in shaping our country.”
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The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Membership is open to men and women of all ages. With over 750 affiliates across the county, the League is one of the nation’s most trusted organizations.
