I hereby bring forward a time-sensitive issue for your attention: 

In the flurry of NFDW convention preparation, Washington State sent the National Treasurer $500 in March 2021 and another $500 in May for delegate participation at the convention. We missed the need for another payment for dues of $265, also in May. On June 1, we were informed our dues were in arrears, that we could not participate in the voting on convention business or election of officers. There was however, no refund of our $1,000 residing in NFDW’s bank account. Conforming to the By-Laws, we immediately submitted the dues and $50 reinstatement fee online. I would have preferred that our dues were deducted from our March payment and a quick note to that effect sent to me. We need to work on perfecting our governance policies.

As Washington State President, I take full responsibility – the Buck Stops Here. 

While I may be ineligible to run for 4th vice president from the floor according to the special 2021 Convention Rules, there is absolutely no reason the women delegates of my state should be disenfranchised and denied their democratic voting rights at the convention.

As state presidents, we work hard to defend our fundamental right to participate and have a seat at the table — even if it’s a folding chair. I am standing up for Washington State women.

I respectfully ask that you contact and urge our NFDW executive board to respond to the properly submitted request and reinstate the 2021 Convention Voting Rights for Washington State.

-Carin Chase, President Washington State Federation of Democratic Women