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Empowering Civics: The League of Women Voters in Williamsburg

Community engagement is at the heart of the League of Women Voters' mission in Williamsburg.

News Summary

The Williamsburg Area League of Women Voters, led by Susan Bivins, is enhancing civic engagement in the community. With a diverse board and a nonpartisan mission, the League organizes voter registration events and educational forums, aiming to inform and involve citizens in local governance. Bivins emphasizes the importance of community participation in voter issues, social matters, and advocacy for a better electoral process.

Welcome to Williamsburg: Spotlight on Susan Bivins and the League of Women Voters

In the heart of Williamsburg, something inspiring is brewing. Meet Susan Bivins, the enthusiastic President of the Williamsburg Area League of Women Voters. Her leadership is like a warm cup of coffee on a chilly morning, invigorating the local community with a renewed push towards civic engagement and informed voting.

A Vibrant Leadership

At the helm of one of Virginia’s most prominent League chapters, Bivins is responsible for managing a diverse Board of more than 16 Chairpersons. Each chairperson tackles a different aspect, from voter services to membership and candidate forums, ensuring smooth operations in all realms. The Williamsburg Area League is not just any chapter; it proudly holds the title as the second largest in the state, only surpassed by Northern Virginia. Interestingly, it stands out for having the most male members amongst its peers, showcasing a wide array of community support.

Nonpartisan Mission

What makes the League truly special is its nonpartisan nature. It doesn’t pick sides in political matters. Instead, it focuses on *identifying key issues* and addressing them squarely. Under Bivins’s guidance, this organization dives deep into voting issues and social matters that affect not just women but the entire community. Whether it’s advocating for education reform or pushing for affordable housing, the League leaves a mark on local policies.

Connecting Through Events

The energy is palpable when you hear about the League’s endeavors. In 2024 alone, they organized an impressive 111 voter registration events throughout the area, from WJCC high schools to bustling local farmers markets. They even held candidate forums for the Williamsburg City Council, giving residents a chance to hear from those aiming for public office. They also engage with Virginia Senators and Delegates, tackling crucial discussions on education and housing access.

Staying Informed

For those keen on staying updated, the League publishes a lively monthly newsletter, the eVoter, with additional alerts when needed. With about 300 members and even more on the eVoter distribution list, this organization ensures that everyone is in the loop. Their Observer Corps attends local governmental meetings like those of the School Board and City Council, providing an essential eye on local governance.

Engagement Beyond Voting

The League doesn’t just stop at advocacy; it maintains an effective presence on various social media platforms, from Facebook to Instagram, fostering quick communication with the community. Their annual meetings and panels tackle pressing topics such as reproductive freedom and gun safety, actively encouraging member participation to ensure everyone is informed before casting their votes.

Great Decisions: A Thoughtful Program

Every February and March, the League hosts the Great Decisions program at the Williamsburg Library, drawing in crowds eager for foreign policy discussions. Covering topics like China’s policy and NATO, the sessions attract around 200 attendees each week. These gatherings not only spark meaningful conversations but strengthen community ties.

Accolades and Accomplishments

Bivins and her team define success as achieving 100% voter participation and promoting an informed electorate. A noteworthy highlight in their journey includes assisting in the passage of a constitutional amendment that effectively ended gerrymandering in Virginia, revolutionizing the state’s redistricting process through a commission rather than the traditional General Assembly.

Meet Susan Bivins

Now, let’s talk a bit about the remarkable woman leading the charge! Originally from Newport News, Bivins has lived in various places, including Tennessee and Louisiana, before settling in Williamsburg in 2010. Along with holding a degree in history from Christopher Newport College of the College of William and Mary, she enjoys the area’s rich historical ambiance and participates in lifelong learning programs at William and Mary.

Retired from her career as a contract law attorney in 2018, Bivins continues to spark community involvement and aims to strengthen democracy not just in Virginia, but across the nation. In her leisure time, she enjoys indulging in books with political and environmental themes as part of a book club, further enhancing her engagement with social issues.

Join the Movement

So, whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer to Williamsburg, there’s never been a better time to get involved with the League of Women Voters. With passionate leadership and a dedicated community, they’re making democracy work for everyone!