What happens during the General Sessions?
The General Sessions (previously called Plenary) are the working, parliamentary sessions of convention. We discuss/debate items for consideration, and vote on them. Delegates vote and approve the LWVC slate of nominees, the two-year budget, the bylaws amendments (if any), and program/issues. Voting occurs on Sunday, so it’s important to plan to be there when the votes are cast.
Where do I find the information that delegates will be voting on?
Keep watching the convention website for new information. The workbook will be posted on April 18, and you will have access to the various proposed items that will be discussed and voted on at convention, such as the slate of nominees to the Board, the budget, and the proposed program. It will be helpful to review the Proposed Order of Business (also in the workbook) to see when things will be presented, debated, and voted on.
How are votes cast?
The initial vote will be cast orally. If the Chair cannot determine a clear decision, then we move to a standing vote. If the Chair still cannot determine a clear decision, then we move to a card vote. Voting cards will be distributed to delegates when they check in at the Registration Desk. It is very important to have your voting cards with you during all General Sessions. If it comes to a card vote, you do not have time to go to your room and retrieve the cards. Once the convention is over, you are required to return your set of voting cards to the Registration Desk.
What’s the difference between a workshop and a caucus?
Workshops are planned and hosted by LWVC. A workshop attendee will come away with learning something (issue or task based) that will help their work in League. A caucus is an informal meeting, typically hosted by a local League, at which discussions are held to hear opinions, garner support or opposition, or to gain understanding of an issue or position.
Will the General Sessions or workshops/caucuses be streaming or recorded?
None of the sessions, workshop, or caucuses will be recorded or streaming. Presentation slides will be available on the convention website once the event has concluded.
What do I need to bring with me?
- Dress comfortably! While we do incorporate lots of breaks, our sessions require you to sit for long periods of time.
- Bring a sweater! The hotel tends to keep the rooms nice and chilly, especially in larger conference rooms. Be prepared with some extra layers.
- What kind of a note taker are you? Whether you like the old-fashioned notepad & pencil, or if you prefer to bring a laptop, plan on bringing something so you can take notes during the sessions or workshops. We will have free WiFi, so an electronic device is encouraged!
- Make sure you have access to the convention workbook. We won’t be distributing the convention workbook to every attendee, but will have a small quantity of printed workbooks in binders available for purchase at the Registration Desk. You can also download it or access it on the convention website at any time.
If you’re a LWVC Convention Pro, here are some changes this time around:
- There is WiFi accessible in all meeting rooms, so you will be able to access the convention workbook and other materials online.
- Local League Buckets will not be available at this year’s convention. If you don’t know what that is, don’t worry – you won’t miss it.
- We will not have a silent auction or a marketplace. We hope that you will spend your flex time networking with other attendees!
LWVC Convention 2023