Immigration policies and enforcement are important issues across the United States, including here in Evanston. At the LWVE Local Program Planning meeting in March 2026, we discussed adopting immigration as one focus for 2026-2027. The decision: Let’s see what happens at this year’s League of Women Voters National Convention.
We now have an update: Immigration was, in fact, discussed at the National Convention this past summer. For example, a breakout session titled “Immigration Action Roundtable” provided opportunities to exchange information on resources and challenges. Also, one agenda item for all delegates to the convention was the formal LWV position on immigration. A position on who should be admitted to the United States was adopted by the LWV in 2008. Delegates to the 2026 Convention overwhelmingly approved an additional position developed by the League of Women Voters of Washington State. It addresses what should happen once immigrants are already in the country. The text below was overwhelming approved by convention delegates:
The League of Women Voters believes that all residents of the United States, regardless of immigration status or citizenship, should be treated with dignity and respect. This means that all residents, regardless of immigration status or citizenship, should have access to essential state-funded services, have the opportunity to avail themselves of legal representation in court and immigration proceedings, and have the opportunity to live and work in safety. The League encourages all elected officials and government leaders in the United States to take action to ensure these fundamental rights. It also means that political leaders have an obligation to condemn xenophobia, discrimination, and anti-immigrant rhetoric.
Positions adopted by the League of Women Voters of the United States can be used as a foundation for state, regional, and local activities. Going forward, local Leagues such as ours can use this new position to educate and advocate on behalf of immigrants in their communities.
More on LWV policies and activities related to immigration on the
main LWV page on immigration.
Curious about how the LWV-Washington position was developed and adopted? An extensive archive of the
formal process and supporting documents is on their website.