League Glossary

There are certain terms unique to the League of Women Voters. The definitions below can help you follow League discussions.

• Action — Promoting the League’s positions on public policy issues to government officials, the media, and the public.
• Action Alert — A request from LWVUS, a state League, or a local League to take action in support of a League position.
• Affiliate (MAL Unit) — A state-recognized group of at least 8 Members-At-Large in an area without a local League.
• Annual Meeting — Local year-end business meeting to elect officers and directors, vote on bylaw changes, and adopt a budget and program of work.
• Consensus — Collective opinion of a substantial number of League members after objective study of an issue.
• Concurrence — Agreement by League members with a position reached by a smaller group or another League.
• Convention — State or national meeting (biennial) where delegates elect leadership, adopt program, amend bylaws, and approve a budget.
• Council — Assembly of delegates held in alternate years to adopt a budget and assess program developments.
• Education Fund — The arm of the League used for educational purposes only, not for advocacy.
• Life Member — A member of 50+ years; exempt from dues and PMP charges.
• ILO (Inter-League Organization) — A group of local Leagues working together on regional issues.
• LWVUS — League of Women Voters of the United States (national League).
• LWV-VA — League of Women Voters of Virginia (state League).
• LWV-WA — League of Women Voters of Williamsburg Area (local League).
• MAL (Member-At-Large) — A member not enrolled in a local League.
• Position — A League statement on an issue, developed through study and member agreement.
• Principles — Broad governmental standards and policies supported by the League.
• Program — Issues selected for study and action at local, state, or national levels.
• Programs — Meetings, speakers, and educational activities.
• Study (Restudy) — Member-approved process to develop or update a League position.
• Unit — Member groupings within large Leagues for discussion and engagement.
• Voters Guide — Nonpartisan publication with candidate information and ballot explanations.
• Voters Service — Activities that help citizens participate effectively in the political process.
• WLRT (Women’s Legislative Roundtable) — A nonpartisan forum hosted by LWV-VA during the General Assembly session to discuss legislation and public policy issues.