Policies & Guidance
Speak With One Voice
I. Purpose
This policy clarifies who may speak on behalf of LWVMN and when they may do so. LWVMN’s goal is to see members civically engaged in their individual capacity, while maintaining consistent and timely public messaging and visibility.
II. Requirements
Generally – Only the President speaks for LWVMN unless otherwise authorized by the President, the board of directors, or this policy.
League Members Speaking in Their Individual Capacity – Members are still welcome to participate in political processes in their individual capacity, including testifying at the legislature, but should state that they are speaking only in their individual capacity and not on behalf of any organization. Members should not identify themselves as a League member if testifying. Members may state that they are informed by or have learn about issues through LWVMN.
Press Releases – Press releases shall be drafted by or at the direction of the Executive Director, then approved by the President. If the President is unable to approve due to timeliness issues, then Executive Director may approve.
Press Inquiries – The Executive Director or their designee may answer press inquiries.
Lobbying – No member may lobby on behalf of LWV to state government without authorization from LWVMN or to federal government without authorization from LWVUS. Lobbying materials may be drafted by Lobby Corps members and staff, then approved by the Advocacy Chair. If the Advocacy Chair is unable to approve due to timeliness issues, then the Executive Director or their designee may approve.
Advocacy Letters – Signing onto advocacy letters must follow the Sign-On Policy.
Coalition Delegates – Delegates attending coalition meetings must follow the Coalition Policy.
Prescheduled Media Opportunities – Prescheduled media opportunities include broadcasted media interviews and events. The Executive Director or their designee may appear as opportunities arise.
Letters to the Editor to Local/Regional Newspapers from Local LWVs on Statewide Issues – Criteria for letters to the editor from Local LWVs about statewide issues shall may be drafted by or at the direction of the Executive Director and approved by the board of directors. The President may draft templates for local LWV use.