Spring reminds me of new birth and moving forward. Our League is like Spring. We’re beginning with a newly elected Board of Directors. We’re always moving forward with innovation and creativity. 

Our newly elected volunteer board of directors officially starts on April 1. Some have already been working in the background getting ready for the year. For some, this may be a first experience with serving in any leadership capacity. For others, this role may be quite new to them in terms of League leadership. Please extend grace to our newly elected volunteer leaders. 

The League is always moving forward. Steeped in tradition, we look at ways to improve and innovate. LWVUS is moving forward on new initiatives that will impact us at the state and local level. More information will be coming. 

Our driving force is YOU. Our mission, to defend democracy and empower voters, as well as our strategic plan, will continue to guide us. 

What are your thoughts on Spring?

Connie Taylor

April is often thought of as a time for renewal. Springtime is upon us in Johnson County, filled with, as I and anyone in the agricultural sector hope, with plenty of rain for May’s flowers. As a History major in my undergraduate work, I often look back to better analyze and associate the present in order to make decisions for the future. This month, I looked to general historical facts about our state as Super Tuesday is behind us and the 2024 election is ramping up more each day.

According to the very official looking website, Ducksters.com and Wikipedia some notable Kansas facts are:

• The Kansa (Kaw) people have been in this area for at least 500 years.

• Francisco de Coronado would have crossed what is modern-day Kansas back in 1541.

• Kansas was claimed in 1682 by the French and would become part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.

• Mid 1800s our community grew by passing Westward settlers.

• In 1854, Kansas became a territory and became a state in 1861.

• But, before becoming a state, abolished slavery in 1859.

• 1954 saw the Supreme Court ruling of Brown V. Board of Education of Topeka as unconstitutional.

• Our first female governor, Joan Marie Finney was elected in 1990.

• Our second female governor, Kathleen Sebelius was elected in 2002.

• Our third female governor, Laura Kelly was elected in 2018.

We are a community of change, a community that welcomes those looking to make Johnson County home and those passing through. As this year’s election process is nearing, our efforts are watering the seeds of the people that call Johnson County home. Be they descendants of the original Kansa people, or more recent settlers, Kansans have a strong desire to participate in our democracy and the efforts put forth by the League of Women Voters will see those flowers grow in November. We have much to be proud of as a service to our community, but with any change, we cannot find ourselves complacent in the status quo. This month, I encourage you to think of one action you’re proud of during your participation in the LWV of Johnson County, as well as one action you’re going to take to help us achieve our mission.

Submitted by Maggie Roby