November 2024

How Can AAUW be Non-Partisan AND Politically Active?
As this Lodestone issue arrives, the national election will soon be concluded. This election has been a tough one. I will not miss the constant polling and contentious political conversations (mostly with my mother). This seems a relevant time to review AAUW’s stance on political activism. Even a brief review of AAUW national and state websites, confirms that AAUW advocates for political issues and specific policies relevant to women and girls. Topics include support for Title IX, education, gender equity, and ending bullying and discrimination in schools. In some cases, these supported issues disproportionally impact women. For example, women hold two-thirds of the country’s student debt; therefore, AAUW promotes legislation to make college more affordable. AAUW’s political stance is detailed in two-minute activism briefs, policy updates, and voter guides. Building on a history of political activism, the AAUW tagline reads “We are tenacious and trailblazing women, advocating for women and girls since 1881 and into the future.”
In contrast, a recent AAUW policy brief notes that AAUW does not permit partisan activities. The brief states “ Put simply, being political is a way to influence legislation and regulation through governmental or public affairs, while partisan activities have a firm adherence to a party, faction, or purpose.” This position seeks bi-partisan agreement on issues that strengthen women and girls, without backing specific partisan candidates.
Endorsement of non-partisan (no party designation) candidates is a grey area. Some AAUW branches adhere to the non-partisan caveat in the broadest sense; no AAUW endorsement of any candidate, whether or not a party (partisan) designation is identified. Other AAUW branches vet potential non-partisan candidates with a thorough process prior to endorsement. Most branches that endorse non-partisan candidates restrict endorsement to offices related to the AAUW mission, such as school board elections.
This conversation is timely as we now update our Branch Bylaws. With this wild election on our minds, we can clarify the degree to which the Nevada County Branch participates in non-partisan endorsements. We welcome your perspective. Please drop a note in the Ideas Box at a Branch meeting, or share your thoughts with any Board member. Members will vote on the revised Bylaws during the April General Meeting.
Be well and vote!
— Diane Kellegrew, Co-President