This year marks 75 years since the Charlottesville Area League of Women Voters was founded. In commemoration, the League is presenting an exhibit about its mission to empower voters and defend democracy. The general public can view it during the entire month of August at the Jefferson-Madison Regional Library’s Northside Branch.

At the start of 1920, most women could not vote, despite a seven-decade campaign for the privilege. By the close of that year, not only had the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the US Constitution granted women the right to vote, but a nationwide League of Women Voters organization was established. In 1946 the local League chapter was also formed.

Since that time, this nonpartisan, influential organization has helped voters participate in the election process and shaped public policy through education and advocacy. Its rich history includes significant work in the City of Charlottesville and the surrounding counties of Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson.

The League invites the public to visit the exhibit to learn more about its history, current focus areas for education and advocacy, and plans for the future.

With this month-long event, the League looks forward to continuing its mission. Further event information is available on the organization’s website at www.lwv-cva.org.

The League greatly appreciates the Northside Library’s management and staff for their support and assistance in making this exhibit possible. The library is located at 705 West Rio Road in Charlottesville.