League of Women Voters Celebrates Golden Valley's Anniversary

Editor's Note: This article was written by Mary Anderson, who heads up the Golden Valley League of Women Voters.  We thank Mary and the LWV for the look into our city's history.

In January of 1946 a small group of women met to organize a “League” group in Golden Valley.  Two years later in 1948 they received a letter from the League of Women Voters of the United States that they had met the requirements to be officially recognized as a Local League.

The national League of Women Voters had been founded in February 1920
just months before the passage of the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote.  Its first mission was the political education of women in order to use their new voice effectively.  Just one year later in 1921 they organized grassroots support to pass the Sheppard-Towner Act which provided federal aid for maternal and child care programs.  Since then, the League has worked to effect change in the broad areas of representative government, international relations, natural resources and social policy.  It has also continued the effort to educate all voters about issues and to provide candidate forums. Men were admitted to membership in 1974 although the League has steadfastly refused to change the name.

At the local level LWVGV became involved in local government by studying issues, and recommending action on them.  The League supported development of an outstanding parks, open space, and trails system; curbside recycling; more openness in government; adequate resources for human services; and diversity in housing. League members have long been active on advisory boards and commissions and in public office.

In 1972 the LWVGV was named Golden Valley Citizen of the Year by the Sun Newspaper in recognition of its service to the community.  The editor noted: “This is the first time a group of citizens has been honored for its continuing and zealous support of principles and goals that ultimately improve the climate and image of Golden Valley." 

In the fall of 1972 the first woman elected to the Village Council was League member, Pat Moberg.  Mary Anderson was elected in 1973 and when Pat Moberg resigned in the spring of 1974, Rosemary Thorsen, another LWVGV member, was appointed to replace her.  That fall, Rosemary and Gloria Johnson, another League member, were elected to serve full terms which meant that women made up a majority of the Council for the first time.  Since the election of Rosemary Thorsen in 1980 as the first woman Mayor all of our Mayors have been members of the LWVGV, two women and two men.  During that time eight Council Members have been members of the LWVGV, four women and four men. Currently the Mayor, Linda Loomis, and three council members are league members.

Many have served in other elective and appointive offices.  Pat Hasselmo served as Chair of the Golden Valley District 275 School Board.   Paula Beugen and Helen Bassett have served on the Robbinsdale District 281 School Board.  Peggy Leppik served as our representative to the State Legislature in the 1990’s.  She and three other members have served on the Metropolitan Council.  Our current President, Marti Micks, served on the City Council for 8 years.

Local members have also been active on the Board of the League of Women Voters Minnesota.  Betty Kane led the study on reapportionment in the 1950’s.  Jane Borchert  and  Peggy Leppik both served on the State Board and Anne Borgen was on the board for 10 years serving as President from 1995 through 1997. 

A major community service continues to be the sponsorship of candidate meetings before elections.  As a nonpartisan organization the League neither supports nor opposes candidates for public office.  We sponsor forums to encourage our fellow residents to learn about the candidates and issues and to vote. We believe that this is best accomplished by providing candidates with a fair and equal opportunity to present their views face to face.  The public is encouraged to bring questions in person or to watch on Northwest cable.

This is the first in a series of monthly articles about the history of Golden Valley community organizations in celebration of the 125th Anniversary of Golden Valley. This project is being organized by the League of Women Voters to recognize the many residents who have volunteered their time to make this a better place to live.

The League of Women Voters Golden Valley continues its mission of studying issues, informing citizens and encouraging participation in government.  It is, as it has always been, a great way to learn about our city and to exchange views with others interested in public issues.  We welcome all to our meetings and invite members of our community to join.  Celebrate the 125th Anniversary of Golden Valley by becoming a member of LWVGV.  Call or e-mail Mary Anderson for more information.  Phone:  763-588-8578; e-mail:  maryanddon3030@aol.com.

maryanddon3030@aol.com