The City opens Women’s History Month on International Women’s Day by celebrating the impact League of Women Voters Golden Valley (LWVGV) has had in shaping the community.
Since its beginnings in 1948, the nonpartisan LWVGV has been dedicated to empowering voters through education and informed civic engagement, advocating for democracy, and serving as a training ground for women who want to run for public office. “The League’s ability to prepare women for public life may be its finest legacy to the nation,” said Nancy Neuman, president of the US League of Women Voters from 1986-1990.
In 1959, the LWVGV studied various forms of municipal government and presented options to the community, which voted for Golden Valley’s current Statutory Plan B format, which consists of a City Council with four members and a mayor, and a City manager who serves as the chief executive officer.
In 1973, Golden Valley voters elected Pat Moberg as the first female City Council member, and in 1976 they elected Rosemary Thorsen as the first female mayor. Both were LWVGV members.
From advocating for comprehensive city planning and open space protection, to recommending a responsive and service-oriented police department, to supporting diverse housing options, essential community services, and initiatives like curbside recycling pick up, the LWVGV has been at the forefront of shaping the community.
Today, the LWVGV continues to ensure community members are equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions at the polls. This includes conducting voter registration drives, hosting educational presentations, organizing fair and nonpartisan candidate forums, and encouraging residents to take the census, among other activities. All residents, inclusive of gender and starting from age 16, are invited to join the LWVGV in their mission. For more information, visit lwv.org and search for the Golden Valley chapter.