I recently had the chance to interview Whitney Oxendahl, who is the Voter Engagement Volunteer with the League of Women Voters of the Red River Valley. She shared some thoughts on the League’s mission and what they are currently working on.
1. Tell me about the League of Women Voters.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan grassroots civic organization with the mission of empowering voters and defending democracy. It was founded in 1920 to help women participate in government and elections after their right to vote was recognized. The League remains vital to connecting people to all levels of government through programs such as candidate forums, voter guides, and public information campaigns.
2. What are some key areas the Fargo chapter focuses on?
The Red River Valley League chapter’s focus for our First Fridays events this year was Strength in Diversity. We held panels on topics such as gun violence prevention, the importance of diversity in elected office, and diversity in education. We’re also focused on empowering voters this election year! We’re hosting candidate forums, sharing the VOTE411 voter guide, tabling at events, and presenting election information to organizations like the Cass Clay Hunger Coalition and the FM Coalition to End Homelessness. This week, we were excited to launch a guide to voting in Cass County’s June 11, 2024 election, available in 5 languages: English, Somali, Arabic, Nepali, and Spanish.
3. What have been some of the changes to voting requirements in North Dakota, and how can voters be prepared for election day?
The biggest change to the voting requirements in North Dakota impacts voter ID. North Dakota is the only state without voter registration, but you must have a valid form of ID to vote. If you’re a naturalized US citizen, please make sure you’ve updated your North Dakota driver’s license or non-driver’s ID card since your naturalization. Learn more from the state’s resource flyer.
4. How can people connect with you if they want to get involved?
Our organization is member-run and member-powered, and we’d love to have you join us! Membership is open to anyone of any gender 16 years or older. To stay updated on our programs, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or subscribe to our newsletter.
Cass County Voters, mark your calendar in June!
June 4-8, 2024: Early in-person voting
June 10, 2024: Absentee (vote-by-mail) ballots are due either postmarked or dropped off in person by 5pm
June 11, 2024: ND State Primary/City Election Day
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