A convention in Seneca Falls, New York, on July 19-20, 1848, is often considered to be the start of the suffrage movement in America. Elizabeth Cady Stanton prepared a Declaration of Sentiments, based on the Declaration of Independence, which became the cornerstone of the women’s movement.

Carrie Chapman Catt founded the League of Women Voters of the United States (LWVUS) on February 14, 1920. The 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution giving women the right to vote was ratified in August 1920 - the largest expansion of the voting franchise in US history. Early League members believed it would be a temporary organization, because once a woman’s right to vote was attained there would no longer be a need for such an organization to exist. However, a century later, we have more work to do than ever to ensure voting rights for all eligible citizens.

LWVUS maintains an office in Washington, D.C. A national League convention is held in even-numbered years.

A gathering of Leagues in the state is held annually, usually in late May or early June. The state League maintains an office at 612 W. Main St. in Madison.

The League of Women Voters of Milwaukee County (LWVMC) was formed in the 1920s, and re-formed in 1989 by merging the Wauwatosa, North Shore, and Milwaukee leagues. LWVMC holds an annual meeting in May each year. We maintain an office with very part-time staff at 6737 W. Washington St. Suite 2218, West Allis, WI 53214. The LWVMC now has more than 500 members.

While we have been known as League of Women Voters since our founding, League membership is open to individuals of any gender identity.