To the Editor:
Since its founding in 1921, the League of Women Voters of Greenwich has functioned as a nonpartisan, political group whose mission is to inform citizens about voting and to present balanced programs, including debates representing all sides. We do not endorse or criticize candidates for office or sitting officials. For almost 100 years, this policy has served us well.
At the same time, individual League members, other than those in leadership and sensitive positions, are free to express their own views. League membership does not prevent members from speaking out on issues of importance to them and, occasionally, members have publicly disagreed with one another.
Recently, a member of the LWVG wrote a letter to the Editor of the Greenwich Sentinel expressing her personal views about the administration of our First Selectman. The member noted her League membership in a list of organization affiliations beneath her signature. We wish to make it clear that the member did not in any way speak for the League or represent the views of the League.
The LWVG Steering Committee recognizes that public disagreement with governmental bodies is a right of any U.S. citizen. We regret that we could not bring resolution to this disagreement; the League leadership cannot take a further position on this issue.
Sincerely,
Jara Burnett, Claudia Carthaus, Liz van Caloen
Steering Committee
League of Women Voters of Greenwich
(203) 637-9244
