Educate, Advocate, Impact
The League works to strengthen our democracy and our communities.
We are a nonpartisan political organization encouraging the informed and active participation of citizens in government. The LWV influences public policy through education and advocacy.
Another Great Year
It was another beautiful night at Walloon Lake Winery for our Annual Meeting. We had great attendance and fellowship with a surprise visit from our LWV past, Jane Addams.
Thank you to our great Membership Committee and food volunteers.
We Stand With Immigrant Families
Download our LWVNLM poster to display at youar home or business.
LWVMI Environmental Network: Summary on Data Centers
The Union of Concerned Scientists released a new analysis entitled Data Center Power Play: How Clean Energy Can Meet Rising Electricity Demand While Delivering Climate and Health Benefits. The project includes a national report, along with a Michigan-specific fact sheet. We also have a Midwest-focused blog post on our analysis here.
Please read on for more information and share widely with your networks!
LWV Unite & Rise 8.5: A Campaign to Defend Democracy
Unite & Rise 8.5 aims to build a movement of 8.5 million individuals to unite and rise up against the anti-democratic actions of this administration. Launching in May 2025 and running until the 2026 midterm elections, this initiative is part of the Women Defend Democracy campaign.
Missed our last forum?
Most forums are recorded and can be viewed on our YouTube channel, but this one is found on the link below. Password is 0EndF2$!.
Announcing the One Time Task Registry
The OTT Registry is a list of LWVNLM members willing to volunteer for a “One-Time-Task” for the Chapter. Examples include taking a 1–2-hour shift at an event registration table (e.g. the Holiday Party, the Annual Meeting, or a candidate forum); staffing a voter information booth at a farmer’s market or other community event; stuffing envelopes; distributing Voter Guides at central locations prior to an election; assisting in voter education presentations at local schools; or helping with other LWVNLM-sponsored events or activities.
No committee meetings, no minutes, no reports. All that is needed is a little of your time, your smile, and your good will in service of LWVNLM’s mission of encouraging informed and engaged voters.
Thank you Volunteers
Thank you to all of our volunteers at our first (but hopefully not last) Habitat for Humanity volunteer day. We got a lot accomplished for the new families moving into these beautiful homes.
We Have the Best Volunteers
Thank you to our dedicated volunteers, Susan, Hannah, Cheryl True, and all of the wonderful individuals who generously gave their time to help man the table at the Harbor Springs farmer’s market throughout the entire summer season.
Their efforts in sharing essential League information informed the public about Vote411.org and played a crucial role in helping to register new voters.
Additionally, we would like to extend a special thank you to Susan, who generously donated that beautiful banner adorning the top of our canopy!
LWVNLM 6th Annual Meeting
A great time was had at our 6th Annual Meeting. We drank some wine, ate some great food and enjoyed meeting in person. Oh yeah, we got some business done, too.
Thank you to our keynote speaker, Lindsey Walker, from the Petoskey City Council and Emmet County Recycling for her words of inspiration. Thank you also to Walloon Lake Winery for the beautiful venue.
As you’re aware, the upcoming August 4th primary election is of utmost importance. Our democracy is at stake - and it’s crucial that we educate citizens about ballot proposals and the significance of voting. To contribute to this effort, please sign up to volunteer at one of the market or event opportunities by clicking on the link below. Even a one-time commitment is greatly appreciated, as your support will make a meaningful difference.
Our League’s quarterly newsletter.
Your Voter Toolbox
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Are you a U.S. Citizen?
Have you been a resident of a city or township in Michigan for at least 30 days (as of Election Day)?
Are you at least 17 1/2 years old AND will be 18 years old by Election Day?
Are you NOT currently serving a sentence in jail or prison?
If you answered "Yes" to these questions, then you can vote!
What if you are homeless?
You can still register to vote. Use a street corner, park, shelter, or other place where you usually stay as your address.
Learn more about your rights as a voter: Voting Rights in Michigan
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You can register to vote online, at any Secretary of State Branch Office, or at your local city, township or county clerk's office.
To register online, go to:
Michigan Voter Information Center - register online
The deadline for registering online is 15 days before the election.
To find your local clerk's office, go to:
You can register at the clerk's office up until 8pm on Election Day at the clerk's office. They are also open some weekends before the election. Check with your local clerk for dates and hours.
To find a Michigan Secretary of State Branch Office, go to:
Michigan Secretary of State Branch Office Locator
What will you need to register to vote?
You will need proof that you are eligible to vote. (Proof of Michigan residency, U.S. citizenship, your birthdate, and that you are not serving a sentence in jail or prison).
You will also need proof of where you live. (Driver's license or Michigan ID, current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or other government document.)
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You can vote before Election Day using an Absentee Ballot. All registered voters in Michigan are now able to vote using an absentee ballot - you don't need a reason or excuse.
To request an absentee ballot online go to:
Apply for an Absentee Ballot Online
You can also go to your local clerk's office to request an absentee ballot. Find your local clerk's office:
Be sure to return your absentee ballot to your local clerk's office no later than 8PM on Election Day. You can mail it to your clerk's office OR drop it off in the drop box at the clerk's office. BE SURE that you return your ballot to YOUR CLERK'S office.
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Do you know where to vote on Election Day? It will depend on where you live.
The polls are open from 7am until 8pm on Election Day. If you are in line at 8pm, you have the right to vote.
You can see a sample of your ballot before you vote, so that you are prepared.
To find the ballot that you will be voting on, go here: Find a sample of your ballot
What if you need help?
You have the right to assistance from election officials. For example, you can ask for instructions on how to use the voting equipment.
Do you need a photo ID to vote?
You will be asked for a photo ID when you go to vote. If you do not have a photo ID or do not have it with you, you can sign a form and then vote.
Examples of photo ID (a document with your name and picture) include:
A driver's license from any state, high school or college ID, passport, military or government issued ID, Tribal ID card. Electronic or paper copies will work.
What if you make a mistake on your ballot or the voting machine doesn't work correctly?
Ask for a new ballot right away. You have a right to a new ballot if you catch the mistake before your ballot is inserted into the tabulating machine and counted. If the scanner rejects your ballot, ask for a new one. You have the right to start over.
What if someone tries to harass or intimidate you or challenges your right to vote?
Tell a poll worker immediately. If the poll worker is the problem, contact your local clerk.
If you are still having a problem, call a nonpartisan hotline for help.
Election Protection Hotline: 1-866-687-8683
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Michigan's elections have been safe and secure.
Local clerks and election workers have worked tirelessly to assure the security and accuracy of our elections.
Ottawa County's clerk, Justin Roebuck, has provided a detailed explanation of how your vote is secured before, during and after election day.: Securing your Vote
Here are some of the steps that the state of Michigan has taken: Election Security in Michigan
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Do you have other questions? Here are some resources to help:
