What is Unite and Rise?
Unite & Rise 8.5 aims to build a movement of 8.5 million individuals to unite and rise up against the anti-democratic actions of the current administration. Launching in May 2025 and running until the 2026 midterm elections, this initiative is part of our Women Defend Democracy campaign.
Why is the Unite and Rise 8.5 campaign necessary?
On April 17, 2025, The League of Women Voters declared that the United States is in a Constitutional Crisis.
It shouldn't matter if you are a Democrat, Republican, or Independent; if you care about the rule of law and democratic norms, your voice matters.
Are We Really in a Constitutional Crisis? Why is that important?
The League defines a Constitutional Crisis as:
When these events occur, the Constitution is deemed at the highest serious risk and warrants full-scale action by ALL of us to preserve and protect democratic institutions and civil society. The League of Women voters has launched an initiative to mobilize 8.5 million voters to defend our Constitution and the Rule of Law through advocacy, civic education, and engagement.
When the executive, the legislative, or judiciary branches cannot or will not adequately protect the U.S. Constitution, when there are explicit attempts to dismantle a functional democracy within any of the three branches, or when any level of federal government takes action to destroy democratic institutions in a manner that intentionally or purposefully jeopardizes the U.S. Constitution.
Why are we doing this?
Threat to Democracy: We acknowledge that our democracy is facing unprecedented, existential threats.
Commitment to the U.S. Constitution: We believe in upholding the rule of law, ensuring equal rights for all, and protecting the due process guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.
Empowering Women as Leaders: As women and leaders within the League of Women Voters (LWV), we are committed to actively defending our democratic values.
Community Mobilization: We aim to mobilize our community to encourage active participation through education and grassroots collective action.
Building Resilience: We seek to build resilience to strengthen community bonds and safeguard our democratic rights
Protecting Our Rights: We are committed to defending our rights and ensuring that they are respected and upheld for all.
See It. Hear it. Feel it. Unite and Rise Launch Video
How can you make a change?
Unite and Rise 8.5 will fight for our democracy on multiple fronts, from the courts to the streets. More actions will be outlined in the future, but as of today, here are a few you can take:
Commit to action: Sign our pledge to Commit to Unite and Rise for democracy!
“Turn Up the Heat” on election officials: Connect directly with your representatives on the issues that matter to you via Town Halls and other opportunities
Act Locally: Join local organizations like your local League to act on the issues that matter in your community
Be prepared to participate in rallies and protests, watch our webinar: Know Your Rights and Protest Safety
Take daily nonviolent action to hold power accountable
Commit to Unite & Rise!
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