Celebrating Community Leaders: Nominations are now open for the 2026 Making Democracy Work and Eleanor Sutherland Volunteer Awards!

The League of Women Voters of Dallas is thrilled to announce nominations for two prestigious awards that honor individuals who have made a significant impact on our community: the Making Democracy Work Award and the Eleanor Sutherland Volunteer Award.

The Making Democracy Work Award recognizes individuals who champion democracy and civic engagement in Dallas. Past recipients have advanced voting rights and amplified the voices of underrepresented individuals, leaving a lasting impact on our community.

Similarly, the Eleanor Sutherland Volunteer Award honors individuals whose volunteer efforts have made lasting impacts on our organization and the community. Named after Eleanor Sutherland, this award celebrates those who embody her commitment to improving society.

The nominees for these awards should have a substantial history of leadership initiatives, contributions to democracy, and impact on the community.

Let's honor our unsung sheroes and heroes by nominating those whose remarkable efforts deserve recognition. Submit nominations for the Making Democracy Work Award or the Eleanor Sutherland Volunteer Awards to highlight their extraordinary contributions.

For the Making Democracy Award nomination form, go here. For the Eleanor Sutherland Volunteer Award nomination form, go here. The deadline for submissions is July 18, 2025. For inquiries, contact Cecilia McKay at cemck@currently.com.

Let’s come together to celebrate the strength of community leadership and volunteerism in creating a more just, equitable, and dynamic democracy.

Warm regards,

League of Women Voters of Dallas Luncheon Committee

LWVTX Capital Action Report

The Legislature adjourned sine die on June 2nd. The League of Women Voters Texas compiled legislative updates on four priority issues. Click on these priority issues to read the current legislative updates:

• Voting Rights & Election Law
• Women's Health
• Water Infrastructure
• Children's Issues

SB 1596 would remove short-barrel firearms from Texas’ list of prohibited weapons. If signed into law, this change would eliminate the ability of Texas law enforcement to act under state law when these weapons are illegally possessed or transferred. Contact Governor Abbott and urge him to VETO SB 1596!

SB 1362, the so-called “Anti-Red Flag Act,” passed both chambers and is now headed to the Governor’s desk. This bill doesn’t just restrict local discretion—it prohibits Texas agencies, local governments, and law enforcement from accepting federal grant funds that support efforts to prevent gun violence through extreme risk protective orders (ERPOs). Contact Governor Abbott and urge him to VETO SB 1596!

League of Women Voters of Dallas

6060 N. Central Expwy, Ste #500