A group focused on political action meets tonight to discuss recent elections and plan steps to form its own chapter of the Kansas League of Women Voters.
A group of about eight has been working since June to form the Iola chapter. A primary goal of LWV is to increase voter registration and awareness of local, state and national issues.
Dimity Lowell has taken a leading role in the local group. Shell lead tonights meeting, along with Damaris Kunkler, with Thrive Allen County. The meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the Thrive office, 9 S. Jefferson.
Lowell said she got involved with the group out of a desire to improve the community.
I want to be a positive role model to younger voters, my children included, she said. I hope to show people that in smaller communities like ours, every vote matters.
The League of Women Voters is a citizens organization to improve government and engage all citizens in decisions that affect their lives. Membership is open to everyone at least 16 years of age, men and women. A non-voting membership is open to those younger than 16. Members of the local group also will obtain membership in state and federal Leagues. The membership fee is $60 annually, but local scholarships are available to help pay the fee.
The organization studies issues and develops an official position statement, advocates for those issues and observes government in action. Local chapters typically organize things like voter registration drives and candidate forums.
At tonights meeting, the group likely will discuss recent elections and plans for the group as well as officer elections, Lowell said.
Lowell said she would like to see the group grow to about 20 members.
Tonights meeting will be hosted by the League of Women Voters of Southeast Kansas and Southeast Kansas United for Justice and Freedom.
