Advocacy
W2D's Advocacy program focuses on state and local issues although we occasionally touch on subjects with national implications such as women's reproductive rights, gun control, climate change and the environment, etc...
We believe by staying informed and involved, we can make a difference in our communities. Here's how you can make a difference:
Willamette Women Democrats Endorse Janelle Bynum
The Willamette Women Democrats (W2D) believe that electing a Democrat to represent Oregon’s 5th Congressional District is critical to our efforts to return the House of Representative to Democratic leadership – and we believe Janelle Bynum is the best candidate to do just that. We have seen the dysfunction of the current Congress and the real harm that has accrued to the people of this nation due to the Republican’s inability to govern and thus address critical issues facing our country and the world.
As a state legislator, Janelle has displayed a common-sense, pragmatic leadership style. She has fostered bipartisan partnerships and has a proven record of delivering results. She understands the importance of working with local and state leaders to help allocate Federal resources where they are most needed in our communities. Her leadership in helping pass the Oregon CHIPS Act is a clear example of a pro-business, pro-worker, pro-Oregon collaboration and we believe she will take that experience to Congress. She has also focused on issues that are of critical importance to our organization. She understands that women’s rights are human rights and that all women are entitled to a full range of reproductive care. She understands that good climate policy is good economic policy and that we can reduce our carbon footprint while creating good union jobs. From her lived experience she understands the importance of access to a good education, from pre-K through university or career-technical education. The W2D Board is pleased to endorse Janelle Bynum for the Democratic nominee for Oregon’s 5th Congressional District. Every Vote MattersVoting in every election cycle is more important than ever before. It is how we preserve our democracy. Your vote counts in EVERY RACE! The W2D Board is pleased to endorse the following candidates and take positions on Ballot Measures in the November 5, 2024, election:
PRESIDENT & VICE PRESIDENT
Kamala Harris & Tim Walz
The Willamette Women Democrats reaffirm their commitment to support Women's Reproductive Rights (September 2021)
“Reproductive health and women’s rights are at risk with each slight or purposeful alteration to words used in the creation and passage of legislation, the implementation of the laws, and the subsequent treatment of persons who identify as women. Denying such rights treats women as second-class citizens not worthy of vital forms of health care. It perpetuates the belief that women are not able – and should not be able – to make decisions about their bodies and their lives.” Pam Zuber, May 2019 “Why Language Matters to Women” UAB Institute for Human Rights Blog.
W2D's Statement on
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Democracy is NOT a spectator sport!
Tips for Writing Letters to the Editor
Writing a letter to the editor (LTE) of your local or regional newspaper is an effective and easy way to reach a large audience. LTEs are printed on the editorial page, which is one of the most read pages in the paper.
Congressional staffers also tell us that members of congress keep a close eye on media coverage, including LTEs, in their local papers so they can keep a 'pulse' on issues of importance to their constituents. Having a strong letter published helps you reach both a wide public audience and your elected officials with the same effort! Even if your letter is not published, it is important for educating and persuading editors. The more letters they receive on a given topic, the more likely they are to dedicate more time in their newspaper to that issue—both on the editorial page and in news articles. It clearly expresses the issue’s importance to the community. 
DOWNLOAD this handy flyer with tips on how to write an effective letter to the editor.
Attending a Town Hall
One of the most effective—and most underutilized—ways to communicate directly with Members of Congress is to attend their town hall meetings.
Members of Congress take to heart what they hear directly from constituents who make the effort to show up at a town hall meeting. Members see attendees first and foremost as concerned voters. In addition, the media often attends these meetings providing another opportunity to spread the message. 
DOWNLOAD this handy flyer on the best way to be effective at town hall meetings.
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