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CHICAGO, Sept. 10, 2018 - As more women run for elected office, many discover unique challenges in a historically male-dominated arena once they reach the "winner's circle."
The League of Women Voters brings these concerns to the forefront at its upcoming State-of-the-State event Saturday, Sept. 29, at Arlington International Racecourse (2200 W Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights). The event, which also serves as the organization's largest fundraiser for the year, kicks off at 5 p.m.
The evening's keynote speaker is former Illinois Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon. Simon currently teaches at Southern Illinois University School of Law (Carbondale).
Panelists include state Sen. Karen McConnaughay, retired state Rep. Elizabeth Coulson and Village of Deerfield Mayor Harriet Rosenthal. League member and former state Rep. Elaine Nekritz will moderate the event.
"I am very proud of the group we have assembled to discuss these issues head-on and cut through ideology," said Heidi Graham, League of Women Voters of Illinois (LWVIL) board member and chair of the State-of-the-State committee. "These leaders stepped up to serve Illinois, and they aren't hesitating to share their personal experiences to help future leaders."
McConnaughay is currently serving a second term representing the 33
rd
District and is the Republican minority whip. She previously served as chair of the Kane County Board from 2004-2012. Coulson represented the 17
th
District as a Republican member of the Illinois House from 1997-2011. Rosenthal, a long-time League member, is serving her third term as mayor, and she previously served as Village of Deerfield trustee from 1985-2009. Nekritz recently resigned as the Democratic member of the Illinois House, having served the 57
th
District since 2001.
"We like to say that voting is free, but it takes resources to encourage, engage and empower voters," said LWVIL President Bonnie Cox. "This fundraiser is a critical opportunity for us to support our mission statewide, plus bring mentors and leaders to our communities."
Dinner, cocktails and a behind-the-scenes tour of Arlington International Racetrack are all on tap during the event. To register, visit
www.lwvil.org
.
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