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Date: 4/21/2026
Subject: News Blast April 21, 2026
From: League of Women Voters of McLean County



April 21, 2026

Meet the Match!
Give to LWVIL Wall Plaque at Project XV Museum
 
Our local League has been generously responsive to the initial collection for a wall plaque at the Project XV Museum in El Paso. The Project XV Museum is the first voting rights museum in the state of Illinois and tells the story of the first Black man to vote in Illinois, David Strother.
 
But we haven't met the $1,000 goal yet. Other Leagues throughout the state have also contributed. So far, we've collected $500. To move us closer to that final $500, a $250 match has been offered. So we only need another $250 from members to meet the goal.
 
Please help. This is a good cause and it will reflect well on the League of Women Voters to be part of it.
 
It's easy to donate:
  • Online with Credit Card or PayPal using link below. Write Project XV in the comment box in the form. (Note: You do not need to log in as a member to donate.
  • Mail a Check: Make check out to League of Women Voters of McLean County, write Project XV on the memo line. Mail to: LWV McLean County, PO Box 932, Normal, IL 61761. 

Phone Call Friday: After-Hours Advocacy That Makes An Impact
By Beth Porter, Membership Director
 
Join us for Phone Call Friday is this Friday, April 24, from 5:30-6:30, at the HOPE Church, 1 Yount Drive, Bloomington. This League members-only event is also open to members' family. Bring your teen, spouse, or another family member who wants to learn alongside you.
 
This gathering will bring members together to learn about timely public issues, review talking points from trusted sources, and more. Come for learning, stay for the community, and take action together! 
 

Drinks & Dialogue
May 6 Event
 
Come to the May 6th Drinks and Dialogue where Bloomington Police Chief Jamal Simington will share information about the Illinois TRUST Act and how it is implemented by the Bloomington Police Department. 
 
In 2017, Illinois enacted the TRUST Act, a measure that limits state and local law enforcement’s participation in federal immigration enforcement. 
 
Come to get all of the facts on the Act, what it is and what it prescribes.
 
When: Wednesday, May 6
Where: Gill St. Sports Bar, 3002B Gill St, Bloomington
Time: Social time will be from 5:30 - 6:00; group conversation starts at 6:00 PM.

League members and members of the community are welcome. RSVP is encouraged.
 

Discover the League, Find Your Place
New Member Orientation ~ Next Session May 2
by Beth Porter, Membership Director
Curious about the League of Women Voters of McLean County—or ready to get more involved? Join us for a friendly, low-pressure New Member Orientation designed to help you feel confident, connected, and ready to participate. Whether you’re brand new, returning after some time away, or simply want a clearer picture of how the League works, this session is for you.
 
Click on the link below for more information or to register. Contact Beth Porter at membership@lwvmclean.org with questions. 


National Convention June 25-28
Register By May 22
 
The 57th Biennial League of Women Voters National Convention will take place in June 25-28, 2026! Registration for Convention is open through May 22. Attend in person or virtually.
 

Make a Difference!
Join the League for Lobby Day
 
League of Women Voters members across the state are invited to join us for Lobby Day at the Illinois State Capitol during the 2026 spring legislative session. We will meet with our legislators and advocate for the issues you care about.

Never lobbied in Springfield before? No worries, we will provide assistance, including a Zoom training session on Monday, May 11 at 7:00 pm.

We will meet up in Springfield on Wednesday, May 13. Our activities begin at 10:00 am. The day will wrap by 3:00 pm.
 

Hear Local Residents' Views on Housing
 
As part of a statewide housing planning effort, the Illinois Housing Development Authority is hosting listening sessions to learn residents’ perspectives on local needs and goals. They will use this information to create an Illinois Housing Blueprint for municipalities, state agencies, nonprofits and locals leaders use.
 
The listening session for our area will be held on Wednesday June 17 in Peoria. If you would like to participate, please RSVP using this link
In addition, a community survey is open to all residents. The survey can be found here
 
This is an opportunity to assure your thoughts on the local housing situation are heard and responded to.


Miss the latest issue of The Voter?  Be sure you know what is going on in our League. Click on the link below for the most recent issue.
 
 
Read LWVUS public statements about our actions to defend democracy.
 

Email: info@lwvmclean.org

League of Women Voters of McLean County 

PO Box 932 

Normal, IL 61761