Become a Public Policy Volunteer

Looking to do more to advance AAUW’s public-policy priorities? Our branch has several activities that need your involvement.

Overview

AAUW Seattle, as a 501(c)4, does not engage in promoting a specific candidate for any office. We do, however, promote education on voting issues and have long been advocates and drivers for public policy both nationally and in Washington State.

We work across the aisle to promote policies that we believe benefit everyone. We are fortunate to have lobbyists on both the national and state level. Each year Washington State sets out our public policy goals and then works to promote those goals both to our members and to the legislature. This was a banner year for passing comprehensive bills that were supported by Republicans and Democrats alike.

We need members to keep abreast of the legislative session (there’s a weekly newsletter to help with that) and post our position on branch social media. Washington Legislative Updates.

Lobby Day:

Lobby Day is held every year in January or February and offers Seattle Branch members the chance to discover how to engage in promoting priority issues for our AAUW mission in Washington State. These are issues that have an impact on gender equity. Members participate with their legislative district team and also help organize branch attendance. Our .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) coordinates participation in this event that includes three features:

• A state-wide meeting in January or February where our AAUW Olympia lobbyist, Nancy Sapiro, brings us an update on current proposals and relevant bills in process.
• Several expert speakers presenting key information pertaining to current legislation that will promote AAUW values for gender equity.
• A chance to collaborate with branch colleagues to bring key issues before local state representatives.

“As a new branch member I found it exciting to learn how to engage in Lobby Day and to find out how we can promote new legislation that supports girls and women in Washington State.”

Voter Registration:

Our branch conducts voter registration drives. Organizers are needed to decide where and when, and to make sure materials are in supply. Please contact Seattle Branch’s .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Two Minute Activist:

The Two Minute Activist provides opportunities to get involved at the national level, by signing up for regular alerts requiring timely action. Alerts keep you informed and invite you to participate by sending emails and texts to your legislators to fight for equal pay, family leave, stopping sexual harassment, equality in education and more.