How the League takes action
The LWVPR takes action at the local level based on LWVUS, LWVIL and LWVCC positions, as well as our own local positions.
League positions are determined by League studies. The League, at the National, State, or Local level, commits to studying an issue such as the electoral college (national), or Illinois charter schools (state) or home rule (local).
Under the guidelines provided by the League, we create a group that:
- studies the issue from all angles
- arrives at a consensus on the questions asked in the study
- writes a statement on our position
Then, the position is voted upon by the membership. If accepted, it becomes part of our program and is something that we can advocate for as a League.
LWVPR Positions
Criminal Justice
“The legitimacy of our criminal justice system rests on a foundation of transparency and
fairness, free from racial and other bias. All stakeholders—the police, the courts, the prison system, and the community—must bolster this foundation. The system’s purpose is to reduce crime and promote public safety. That purpose is better served by reformation of offenders and their reconciliation with the community, rather than mere retribution.
We agree with the positions proposed by the Illinois League of Women Voters in its 2020 Criminal Justice Reform Consensus Questions. Criminal justice reform will require changes in the culture and practices of the police, IDOC and our courts. We must also address some of the fundamental causes of crime and violence, including poverty, sub-standard housing and education, and the dearth of services for the mentally ill. Every change and program should be evidence-based and regularly evaluated for effectiveness, balancing costs and results.”
Affordable Housing
“The League of Women Voters of Park Ridge encourages policies that provide a
decent home and suitable living environment for every family. The League supports increasing the supply of affordable housing in our community.”
Additional Positions
Our local league takes action based on our local positions as well as positions of additional Leagues that we belong to: