What is the origin story of your community’s beginnings in Anchorage?
Evangeline Atwood, was the organizer and first president of the League of Women Voters of Anchorage in 1950. She made a list of 50 women she thought would be interested and invited them to a luncheon. The luncheon turned into an organizational meeting. and a committee was appoint to draw up a slate of officers and committee chairpersons. The League was "provisional" the first year and became a fully endorsed League in 1951.
Where can people learn more about your community’s history?
The League's archives are located in the UAA/APU Consortium Library Archives and Special Elections. A history is being written and will eventually be on the League website: https://lwvanchorage.org.
Tell us about three to five people - past or present - who made a mark on your community.
Heather Flynn is a lifetime member of the League of Women Voters of Anchorage and was involved and witness to many of the League's achievements. Pat Redmond has been a member since 1972, was responsible for Voter Services for many years and served in many League officer positions. Carol Dickason has been a member since 1994 and has held several officer positions. Joyce Anderson has been a member since 1999 and served as President for several years. Cari Zawodny served as Youth Vote Coordinator for over 12 years.
What are some defining moments - the good, the bad, and the wild - that shaped your community’s identity in Anchorage?
The League of Women Voters of Anchorage has significantly influenced policy at the local and state levels throughout the years with it's members having been active in the formation of the State Borough Act in 1961, the formation of the Greater Anchorage Area Borough in 1964, the writing of the State Unification Act, the writing of the Charter for the Municipality of Anchorage, and the unification of the former City of Anchorage and the Greater Anchorage Area Borough. Additionally, the League of Women Voters of Anchorage has conducted many studies throughout the years on local government issues leading to positions in areas such as Planning and Zoning (including Comprehensive Plans), Education, Community Councils, and Boards and Commissions. The League continues to encourage active and informed participation in government through education and advocacy.
Why is Anchorage important to your community? What makes you stay here even during the hard times?
Anchorage is a wonderful place to live. There are multiple ways for citizens to be involved in local government and the making of public policy. Opportunities abound for everyone to contribute to making Anchorage the best possible place to live, work and raise a family.
What’s one interesting fact about your community’s history that you think people in Anchorage should know about?
The League of Women Voters of Anchorage was the first League established in the state of Alaska and is celebrating their 75th Anniversary this year.
Published by the Assembly Legislative Services Office
We believe that local government plays a critical role in improving our community and that it works best when residents are engaged. We provide research, communications, and project management on behalf of the Anchorage Assembly to engage our community in local government. Learn more.
