League of Women Voters of Southwest Missouri Addresses Misinformation and Civil Discourse at Springfield Board of Education Meeting
On December 19, 2023, the co-presidents of the League of Women Voters of Southwest Missouri, Sherry Buchanan and Emily Fessler, spoke during the public comments section of the Springfield Public Schools Board of Education meeting. This action was driven by the League’s Observer Corps guidance, an action team focused on attending local governmental meetings to facilitate informed action.
This action signaled a commitment to the League of Women Voters of Southwest Missouri’s mission, core values, and principles. The statements emphasized a commitment to the League’s value that every person should have access to free public education providing equal opportunity for all and that no person or group should suffer legal, economic, or administrative discrimination.
The statements voiced concerns about the SPS school board’s failure to support LGBTQ+ students and staff, addressed board members’ spreading misinformation about LGBTQ+ issues, and highlighted the need for civil discourse, particularly when dealing with controversial agenda items.
“Misinformation about gender identity and sexual orientation is being disseminated at board meetings and in other venues. We believe that as elected officials, when making public comments, you speak with the authority of your offices and carry a responsibility to reject misinformation. Misusing this authority by spreading misinformation, whether intentional or inadvertent, is unacceptable for public officials,” stated League co-president Sherry Buchanan.
The League of Women Voters of Southwest Missouri reiterates its dedication to fostering informed engagement and advocating for policies that promote equality and civil discourse in our communities.
To read the full statements, click here.
The League of Women Voters of Southwest Missouri is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to the informed and active participation of citizens in our democracy. We promote voter education and advocate for public policy issues on all levels of government.
For more information, contact the League of Women Voters of
Southwest Missouri at 417-501-6067 or visit the League website at lwvswmo.org.