[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 31 (Thursday, February 16, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E362]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                  TRIBUTE TO THE LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS

                                 ______


                          HON. JOHN D. DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 15, 1995
  Mr. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise today in recognition 
of the 75th anniversary of one of this Nation's most unique and 
venerable political institutions--the League of Women Voters. Founded 
in 1920, 6 months prior to passage of the 19th amendment, the League of 
Women Voters is dedicated to furthering the active and informed 
participation by citizens in the democratic process.
  Today, the League of Women Voters boasts more than 1,100 chapters and 
150,000 members, men and women. The hallmark of this nonpartisan 
organization, which does not support political parties or their 
candidates, is its grassroots approach to action. Official policy 
positions advocated by the league are based upon the collective ideas 
and opinions of its members. In addition, individual chapters 
consistently put forward innovative community-based strategies to 
encourage citizen participation at the local level.
  As we look back on many of the most important legislative 
accomplishments of the past 75 years, it is clear that the involvement 
of the League of Women Voters has had a lasting impact. Individuals 
such as Eleanor Roosevelt, who was a very active member of the New York 
League, have fought on countless occasions for the enactment of 
measures to improve working conditions for the American worker; ensure 
that our children are well fed and properly educated; guarantee equal 
rights for all; strengthen our health care system; and protect our 
environment for this and future generations.
  I am pleased to join with my colleagues in honoring this exceptional 
organization committed to responsible citizenship. By encouraging the 
enlightened debate of vital national, State, and local issues, the 
League of Women Voters has contributed greatly to the representative 
system of government envisioned by our Founding Fathers.


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