League of Women Voters Day

League of Women Voters Day is observed annually on February 14, commemorating the founding of one of America’s most influential nonpartisan political organizations. This day celebrates over a century of work dedicated to empowering voters and defending democracy. While the date is widely known for Valentine’s Day, for the League and its supporters, it represents a “love for democracy” and a commitment to ensuring every eligible citizen has the information and the opportunity to cast their ballot.

History of League of Women Voters Day

The League of Women Voters (LWV) was officially founded on February 14, 1920, in Chicago, Illinois. Its creation was led by Carrie Chapman Catt during the convention of the National American Woman Suffrage Association. The timing was critical: the 19th Amendment, which guaranteed women the right to vote, was just months away from final ratification. Catt envisioned an organization that would help 20 million newly enfranchised women exercise their new right and take a proactive role in public affairs.

Originally described as a “mighty political experiment,” the League was designed to be a nonpartisan group that would neither support nor oppose candidates or political parties. Historically, the League has been a powerhouse in civic education, famously sponsoring the presidential debates from 1976 until 1984. Over the decades, its mission expanded from solely focusing on women’s rights to advocating for broader issues such as voting rights reform, environmental protection, and government transparency, eventually opening its membership to men in 1974.

Why is League of Women Voters Day important?

This day is significant because it honors the ongoing struggle to maintain a “government of the people.” In an era of political polarization, the League’s commitment to providing neutral, factual information remains a vital resource for the American electorate. The observance highlights the importance of voter registration, poll worker recruitment, and the elimination of barriers to voting. It serves as a reminder that the right to vote is a “use it or lose it” privilege that requires constant vigilance and participation.

The holiday also recognizes the League’s role in policy advocacy. By conducting deep research and reaching consensus among its members, the League influences legislation on local, state, and national levels without ever choosing a “side” in a partisan sense. Celebrating this anniversary encourages a new generation of activists to view civic engagement as a year-round responsibility rather than just a seasonal activity during major elections. It reinforces the idea that an informed and active citizenry is the only true safeguard of a healthy democracy.

• The League was founded six months before the 19th Amendment was ratified.
• It is a grassroots organization with over 700 local and state leagues.
• The LWV is famous for its “VOTE411” digital platform, a “one-stop shop” for election info.
• Members spend thousands of hours each year registering new voters at community events.
• The day celebrates the transition of the suffrage movement into a governing force.

How to Celebrate League of Women Voters Day

The most impactful way to celebrate is to register to vote or update your current registration information. If you are already set for the next election, you can observe the day by visiting VOTE411.org to see upcoming local races or to learn about the voting laws in your specific state. Many people celebrate by joining their local League chapter to participate in community advocacy or by volunteering to work as a nonpartisan poll watcher or registrar.

For a more educational celebration, you can research the lives of suffragists like Carrie Chapman Catt or Maud Wood Park to understand the immense effort required to found the organization. Since it falls on Valentine’s Day, “Galentine’s” themed events often overlap with League celebrations, where groups of women gather to discuss local policy issues and community improvement. Sharing social media posts that encourage others to “Love Your Vote” is a popular digital way to honor the day’s mission.

• Register
  Visit VOTE411.org to check your registration status.
• Join
  Become a member of your local League of Women Voters chapter.
• Volunteer
  Sign up to help with a voter registration drive in your neighborhood.
• Educate
  Read a book or watch a documentary on the history of the 19th Amendment.
• Advocate
  Write to your local representatives about protecting voting access for all.

League of Women Voters Day Dates Table