Saturday, February 8
9:00am–4:00pm
Attend Virtually or In Person
Northern Illinois University Naperville Conference Center
1120 E Diehl Road, Naperville, IL 60563
Get briefed! Join the League of Women Voters of Illinois for our annual look at current issues. Learn from nonpartisan and be prepared to advocate for change in your community and state.
This is a hybrid event—join us in person for idea-sharing, networking, and camaraderie, or, if you can’t make it, tune in from the comfort of home. In-person seating will be limited to the first 200 registrants.
General Session Topics
Constitutional Limits on Executive Powers
Why has executive power under the Constitution emerged as a matter for debate? Steve Schwinn, Profession of Law at UIC, will examine the traditional notion of balance of power against the increasing trend toward executive orders .
Click to learn more about the speaker.
Bracing for Impact: The Threat of Cuts to Social Safety Nets
A panel of accomplished authorities from the government and nonprofit sectors will answer questions about the threat of financial cuts to programs designed to address hunger, mental health, housing and other basic needs. Let’s discover what actions can be taken.
States’ Rights: Challenges and Opportunities for Illinois
Recent decisions by the Supreme Court have demonstrated a trend toward defending states’ rights. Our speaker will examine the legislative challenges and opportunities that face our state in the years ahead.
Breakout Sessions (Choose one)
Immigrant Rights, Rules and Protections
Our panel will discuss new risks to the immigrant community, immigrant rights information, and strategies for moving forward under potential threats.
Click to learn more about the speakers.
Criminal Justice Reform: Addressing Pretrial Practices in Domestic Violence Cases
The pre-trial practices implemented in 2024 through the Criminal Justice Reform bill have fallen short of protecting victims of domestic violence. Speakers will discuss existing holes in our system and strategies for addressing shortfalls to improve the safety of vulnerable victims.
Climate Change: What to Expect in the Spring Legislative Session
Speakers will discuss the state of climate legislation as it has evolved from the previous to the current legislative session—and what actions you can take.
Questions? Email us at issues@lwvil.org.