Tell Senators to Vote NO on SAVE Act
The U.S. Senate is poised to vote on the SAVE (Safeguard American Voter Eligibility) Act and the Make Elections Great Again Act, which are promoted as ways to prevent noncitizens from voting. Study after study have shown noncitizen voting to be a "vanishingly rare" event. This legislation would impose strict Proof of Citizenship documentation requirements, an unnecessary burden on voters.
Those hit particularly hard would include the 50 percent of American citizens who don't have a passport, women who changed their name when they married (birth certificate name won't match), and those who have lost documentation due to natural disasters. This is a massive, unfunded mandate that will prohibit many from voting.
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Citizen Advocacy Works!
Unlikely allies called on lawmakers to pass a postpartum care bill before time ran out…and it worked! |  | |
Assembly Bill 97 gives eligible mothers a full year of Medicaid coverage after childbirth and two unlikely allies worked together to lobby lawmakers to get the bill passed before the legislative session ended. For the last two years, conservative Jacob VandenPlas and “our own” progressive Pat McFarland, have been working side by side, pushing for lawmakers to get this bill across the finish line.
The bi-partisan bill was first introduced six years ago but the House Speaker refused to bring it to the floor. Yet on Thursday, the last day of session, it was. And it passed on a 99-1 vote - proving that it had overwhelming bi-partisan support all along.
We thank Jacob, Pat, and all the League members who have rallied for this life-saving bill for six long years. Wisconsin finally leaves Arkansas behind as the sole state that has not passed this healthcare support - at a critical time in a new Mother’s and child’s life.
Another important bill passed this session: AB263, Gail’s Bill, which expands breast cancer screening access. The passage of both SB23/AB97 and AB263, show the Wisconsin legislators are aware of the importance of women's health issues to voters. Let’s use this power in 2026 to rally women of all ages to vote! |  | |
How does a UW Madison Football Player and Aerospace Engineering Student Spend His Day?
Here is another TikTok appropriate video made by marketing students from UW Madison. The students made the videos for a project designed in collaboration with Leigh Ann Tidey from LWVMC’s High School Voter Education and Registration Program. You can see more of the videos on our Instagram site rvotematters2; we also will be posting them in online ads targeting youth in the Milwaukee area. Thanks to the UW students and especially to the star of this UW Video!
| | A VARIETY OF OPPORTUNITIES FOLLOW. | | Volunteers Needed - Be An Election Observer!
Help the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin monitor Wisconsin's elections. We are seeking volunteers to be trained as Election Observers and placed in polling places in specific areas around the state. You don't need to be a League member to volunteer for this -- although we'd love to have you join us!
For the 2026 elections we are focusing the Election Observation Program:
1. to be sure there is no disenfranchisement
2. to monitor the voter experience - including registration and showing ID
3. to monitor the absentee ballot counting process
4. to track any problems that can be fixed in future elections
Currently Recruiting Election Observers for the April 7th Election. Sign up by March 16th to volunteer. Join us! Learn more and sign up to volunteer here. | Voter Registration Initiatives Need You
Register Voters on Campus:
The Milwaukee League is renewing its campus voting program. Programs are already in the works for Mount Mary University and MSOE. Next up are Alverno and UW Milwaukee.
Volunteers are needed to be the point persons for area colleges and universities. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or a lead at one or more of the campuses, please contact Candice Owley: c.owley@lwvmilwaukee.org
Please Consider a 3-Hour Time Commitment (Or two)!
We know you are all busy, but voter registration is still so important, and each event is a one and done in 3 hours or less. There are several scheduled events that need one or two volunteers to help. Whether you're new to this or a veteran, we need you for events prior to the April elections. Learn more on the volunteer oppportunity web page. |  |
Sometimes it takes an issue to motivate someone to vote.
Join the Advocacy Team to help Get Out the Vote for the April election.
Contact advocacy@lwvmilwaukee.org. Numerous community or behind-the-scene opportunities available when you are. Don’t care for meetings? No problem!
| **DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS IS FEBRUARY 28**
Seeking Nominations for 2026/27 LWVMC Board Positions
Are you interested in applying for a LWVMC leadership position or nominating someone else with their permission? With democracy in our country under assault, the League needs dedicated members in leadership positions who are committed to defending our democracy. Are you prepared to contribute to the League’s fundamental mission?
The open Board positions for 2026/27 are the following:
- Second VP Advocacy
- Treasurer
- Board Director (4)
Descriptions of the positions:
VP Advocacy Job Description; Treasurer Job Description; Board Director Job Description;
The application form can be found at the following link: Application Form
Dedicated LWVMC leaders are essential in these tumultuous times. For further information regarding the open Board positions, please contact Mike Kloehn, Nominating Committee Chair at m.kloehn@lwvmilwaukee.org or (904) 200-7815. |  | | LOCAL ACTION
Feb. 28 - Climate Action Group Steering Committee Zoom, 9:30-10:30a.m. Email l.petering@lwvmilwaukee.org to join our discussion.
Apr. 8, 6p.m. City of Milwaukee ECO Office Public Input Opportunity Now exceeding 100 new EV registrations monthly across the County, you can share your thoughts about moving forward with electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Join the public meeting on April 8th at 6pm at the Washington Park Urban Ecology Center or provide feedback using this link.
LOCAL LEAGUE CLIMATE PROGRAM
Nov. 22nd LWVMC program, Addressing Climate Change in Milwaukee County - Learn about City of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County efforts to address climate change and equity. Find Video and Slides of this informative event here. Spread word of this still relevant information with others.
LWVWI CLIMATE ACTION on Hyperscale Data Center Bill
LWVWI has submitted statements on each bill identified below, registering opposition to the first and support with suggested amendments to the second. They were heard by legislative committees on Tuesday, Feb 17.
AB-840, SB-843 - This bill put undue restrictions on the use of renewable sources of energy to power data centers which would result in generation methods that are costly - for you, for our environment and for our waters. The bill’s second shortfall is a lack of a required comprehensive planning process that would include all stakeholders and consider all factors necessary to the operation of the data center. Read the statement here.
AB 722 / SB 729 - In the interest of transparency, this bill defines and includes multiple reporting requirements for operations of large data centers. LWVWI did express concern that our state government needs sufficient funding to assure tracking and enforcement of the bill’s provisions. Also supported was a requirement that assessment fees be directed to energy conservation, renewable energy and public assistance. Read the statement here.
|  | | League Cafe, the book and general discussion group of the LWVMC will meet on Fri., Feb. 27th at the East Side Library at 10:00 a.m.
This month we will be discussing the novel, “The Beekeeper of Aleppo” by Christy Lefteri. This novel relates to the topic of refugees - so current at this time. Even if you haven’t read the novel, you will find the discussion interesting, and probably you will have something to contribute as well. Join us and share ideas with fellow League members. Please join us! | |
Come support the LGBTQ+ Advocacy Group with Drag Queen Bingo!
Enjoy an evening of fun, laughs, and bingo with drag queen bingo supporting the League of Women’s Voters! Drag queen Dear Ruthie will be hosting an unforgettable event that is not one to miss! Parking can be limited near POP, so it is suggested to arrive early. Food and drinks are available for purchase.
Reservations are encouraged and can be made here: Reserve | POP |  | Removal of the Pride flag at the Stonewall National Monument
The recent removal of the Pride flag from the Stonewall National Monument has sparked deep concern among LGBTQ+ advocates and allies nationwide. As the historic site of the 1969 uprising that catalyzed the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, Stonewall is more than a landmark, it is a symbol of resistance, visibility, and community power. For many, the absence of the Pride flag represents more than a change in decor, it represents a step backward in recognizing the struggles and contributions of LGBTQ+ people. The flag has long served as a beacon of affirmation, particularly at a time when LGBTQ+ communities continue to face legislative attacks and rising hostility in many states. Removing it from such a significant national monument risks sending a message that LGBTQ+ history and identity are optional rather than integral to our shared story. Public spaces that commemorate civil rights movements should reflect the communities whose courage shaped them. Efforts to diminish visible symbols of inclusion can have real consequences, especially for young people seeking affirmation and belonging. Reaffirming the presence and meaning of the Pride flag at Stonewall is about more than symbolism, it is about honoring history and protecting hard-won progress. |
To stay informed about legislation affecting the LGBTQ+ community and track advocacy efforts, visit Fair Wisconsin’s Bills to Watch page:
https://fairwisconsin.com/bills-to-watch
To identify and contact your state legislators and relevant committee members, use MyVote Wisconsin: https://myvote.wi.gov
Speaking up matters.
LGBTQ+ ... All Letters Matter!
| The League’s Unite & Rise 8.5 nonviolent, pro-democracy campaign believes religious leaders have significant authority to either support or push back against governments as has been shown in countries around the world such as Poland and the Philippines in the 1980s, as well as countries in Central America and Africa. The Interfaith Conference of Milwaukee is sponsoring a series of 5 Tuesday lectures in March that addresses the call to “Raise our Moral Voice” here in Milwaukee. You can attend one or all of the lectures, in person or online and register at Interfaith Conference. | | Street Demonstration
Saturday, February 28, 10:30-Noon
West Bluemound Road & Thomas Lane
Brookfield, WI
Signup at http://www.BrookfieldResist.org for more information. | | Saturday, March 7, 2026 (All day) to Monday, March 9, 2026 (All day)
Please see the website, including finding an action in your area, here.
On March 7-9, International Women’s Day weekend, Women’s March, Feminist Generation, and partners will lead a Brave Women Weekend of Action as part of the overarching theme of Free America. Women across the country will carry out coordinated direct actions that interrupt business as usual and force response.
The weekend advances two core demands:
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Justice for survivors of gender based violence, including those harmed by the wealthy and powerful.
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An end to ICE kidnappings, full accountability for extrajudicial killings, and a funding freeze toward abolition.
| | Mark Your Calendars:
No Kings III
March 28, 2026
Washington Park
12-1 Community Fair
1-1:30 Rally
1:30 March | | | Stop by the League of Women Voters photo op space and table during the Community Fair. Have your image taken with your sign or messages of your choice to commemorate the day.
Over 10,000 people are expected at this venue but there are other venues to choose from throughout Milwaukee and Waukesha counties. You can find all the opportunities at NO KINGS. | |
Tell Legislators What We Want!
at No Kings, Washington Park
March 28, 11:30-1:00
The Unite & Rise team will be walking throughout the crowd at No Kings III asking people to complete postcards telling our legislators what we want and…don’t want. Then we’ll present them with ceremony at the legislators’ offices.
We need people to help. You’ll be done in time to listen to the speeches and to march. Contact Donna Spars at d.spars@lwvmilwaukee.org. | Yes! Protest Rallies are Happening During the Winter
Why do protests matter?
Visible resistance is essential so the government and its supporters see the number of citizens who don’t agree with their actions. Nonviolent visible protest activity encourages those sitting on the sidelines to join in.
Here is the link to the listing of ongoing weekly protests: Protest Rallies |  | | A Call to Action from League USA on Immigration
For months, communities across the country, in Minnesota and beyond, have lived in terror as federal immigration enforcement agents have patrolled, surveilled, detained, disappeared, injured, and killed civilians, as well as denied people’s constitutional rights by attacking and arresting peaceful protestors. Yet Congress — our elected officials — has played a pivotal role in funding and enabling this government-manufactured crisis, and they must act to stop these attacks.
We need you to stand with the League by clicking and completing this link: Tell Congress That Federal Immigration Enforcement Has Gone Too Far | League of Women Voters
Thank you. | |
Observer Corps Meeting
Friday, February 27 at 4:00pm
Email Robyn Furger for information on how to join in person or via zoom: r.furger@lwvmilwaukee.org | The Observer Corps is still in need of volunteers to take notes on Committee Meetings, Town Halls, and Listening Sessions. Please contact Robyn Furger at r.furger@lwvmilwaukee.org to sign up! |  | | Everyone Goes To The DMV
Exciting news! LWVMC is renewing our work at the department of motor vehicles offices by establishing a new voter services team focused on the DMV offices in the Milwaukee area. This new team will be led by Jim Engle, a new league member but the longtime activist with the Milwaukee Voter Project. By combining Jim’s experience with our league's great Voter Services volunteer program we will be able to reach even more voters.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer with this team please email c.owley@lwvmilwaukee.org for more information.
The DMV is a great place to meet potential voters, new residents and new drivers. Voter registration drives at the DMV have been highly successful for both the public and the volunteers. We will be adding this team to the volunteer opportunities and including in the new member interest forms.
| | Recruiting Presentation Specialists | | | The Speakers Bureau is seeking League members interested in creating power point slide presentations on new topics. We seek members who have experience creating power point slide decks. Whether you have done this professionally, as a teacher, or in another volunteer role, we need you!!
Qualifications include: technical and design skills with proficiency in Microsoft Power Point or Google Slides; and content and communication skills of storytelling, editing, and being audience focused.
Content will be provided and there will be opportunities to interact with other League members to understand the issues you are crafting into a slide deck. It will be a fun experience to learn more about the League and meet other members.
If you have time and are interested, please contact Jodi Delfosse at SpeakersBureau@lwvmilwaukee.org. |  |  | | Thank you to VOTE411 Community Volunteers
Behind the scenes work on VOTE411 starts well before the election. A critical time is in January after the candidates file their nominations papers. Beth Lueck, Co-chair of the VOTE411 team, coordinated a large group of community volunteers who are LWVMC members. These volunteers contacted municipal and school board clerks to get race and candidate contact information.
We thank our community volunteers for the vital role they play in preparing for the Spring election. The community volunteers this past election were
Colleen Barnett, Theresa Bellone, Michelle Buerger, Deb Bursinger, Mollie Conrad, Nancy Florsheim, Lisa Fohey, Beth Furumo, Lisa Goglio-Zarczynski, Jeanne Beauchamp Hewitt, Joan Janus, Debbie Kohn, Wendy Kramer, Mary Sue Kristiansen, Katelyn Kugler, Elizabeth Lentini, Beth Lueck, Rosemaria Makowski, Beth McCoy, Stacy Mueller, Kerri Nguyen, Diana Otterbacher, Deborah Patel, Piper Plummer, Judy Poklar, Marsha Poulsen, Peggy Serrano, Rachel Shea, Jane Stoltz, Mary Walz-Chojnacki, Susan Weistrop, Jean Wilde, and Jennifer Williams. | Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD)
Do you have an IRA? Talk with your financial advisor about making a gift to the League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County directly from your IRA. A gift directly from your IRA to a 501(c)(3) charity, such as LWVMC, is called a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). There may be tax advantages, and if you are required to take a minimum distribution, the QCD is counted toward your required minimum distribution (RMD).
Keep in mind:
· The gift must be made directly from your IRA to LWVMC.
· The QCD is not automatically deducted from your 1099-R form. The custodian checks the box “Taxable Amount Not Determined.” You need to provide the gift letter from LWVMC to your tax preparer. |  |  | | Wisconsin Historical Society Traveling Exhibit Comes to Milwaukee Public Library Central Branch Beginning March 1st
The traveling display "'We Stand on Their Shoulders': A History of Wisconsin Women and Voting" explores moments when women in Wisconsin gained political rights and highlights a few key leaders. Covering the ratification of the 19th Amendment, 1921 Wisconsin Equal Rights Act, 1924 Indian Citizenship Act, and 1965 Voting Rights Act, the eight-panel display shares the important story of women's quest for political rights and recognition through quotes, photographs, and a timeline of events.
The League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County will also be on site from 1-3 pm on March 7, offering voting education and voter registration assistance.
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The Wauwatosa West Allis Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the Wauwatosa Candidate Forum. Join us for an important community conversation and hear directly from the candidates about the issues impacting Wauwatosa.
This event is open to the public, and all community members are encourages to attend.
5:30pm-6:30pm-Doors Open, Meet the Candidates
6:30pm-8:00pm-Program Begins
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Resistance and Resilience at the Movies!
Tuesday, March 10 Viewing of “How to Start a Revolution”
Avalon Atmospheric Theater, 2473 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee
Doors open at 5:45 p.m. Mingle and check out local coalitions.
• Movie begins at 6:30 p.m.
• Gathering closes at 8:30 p.m.
Join Indivisible South Shore and Indivisible SE Wisconsin Indivisible for a FREE movie night. We invite you to this community building event that will continue to inform and build our shared RESISTANCE and RESILIENCE. Gather, get your free popcorn, buy a drink, and settle in for the viewing of "How to Start a Revolution". After the movie, stay for a guided talk-back and a small give-away.
Due to limited capacity, RSVPs for EACH PERSON are REQUIRED. *Because of limited capacity, if your plans change, please CANCEL your attendance. RSVP. |  | |
Now is the Time…..to become part of a community of white women who…
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are determined to do something about racism in our country,
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don’t want to do this work alone,
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won’t sit back at this pivotal moment of our country’s history and do nothing
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see a need to transform their thoughts and attitudes toward racism and to act to dismantle the racism in our society
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Our journey begins June, 2026. Please click here to learn more about the program and to find a group.
A number of LWVMC have participated and can be contacted as references for this amazing [free] opportunity.
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Lots of Ways to Support Local Democracy and Your League. Thank You! | Follow us on Social Media! | You have received this message from the mailing list of League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County. If you would prefer not to receive these emails in the future, go to the opt-out page and modify your privacy settings. You can also request to be removed from our database completely. | |