Karen Paris Past commander, Post 593 3rd Division Training Officer Get Out The Vote Karen Paris Past commander, Post 593 3rd Division Training Officer

The Beginning In 1920, during The 2nd American Legion National Convention in Cleveland, the organization went on record urging all American Legion men (sic) to become qualified voters. In 1952, during the National Convention we adopted the name “Get Out The Vote” for the program. In 2007, the National Executive Committee re-committed support to this program. The Legion's "Get Out the Vote" program encourages all Americans to register and vote in all elections.  This is a non-partisan campaign.

Definition: “Political” adjective of or relating to the government or the public affairs of a country. "a period of political and economic stability" synonyms: governmental, government, constitutional, ministerial, parliamentary, diplomatic, legislative, administrative, bureaucratic; More of or relating to the ideas or strategies of a particular party or group in politics. "a decision taken for purely political reasons" synonyms: politically active, party; More interested in or active in politics. "I'm not very political"

Definition: “Non-Partisan” adjective adjective: non-partisan not biased or partisan, especially toward any particular political group. synonyms: unbiased, impartial, neutral, objective "the moderator must remain nonpartisan throughout the debates"

Follow rules of nonpartisanship “The American Legion shall remain nonpolitical and will not be used for the dissemination of partisan principles nor for the promotion of any candidate.” Failure to follow = loss of non-profit status Does not mean members are forbidden to show partisanship Legionnaires may express partisan views., but they must do so without wearing the Legion cap or other Legion attire and without direct connection to an American Legion post. Any political function held at a Legion post must be open to the public and all candidates must be invited. All Legion décor should be removed from the room. Candidates should not be asked to speak at or during an official American Legion meeting

What can we do? Legionnaires, posts, districts and departments are encouraged to fully involve themselves in the electoral process serve as poll volunteers, poll workers and by encouraging and assisting others to register and vote All Legionnaires are encouraged to renew their commitment for continued service to this country by being politically active as individuals promoting an informed populace participation in our government involvement in its electoral process.

Do’s and Don’ts DO’s: 1. Maintain neutrality 2. Assist ALL voters 3. Promote DON’T: 1. Favor a candidate 2. Wear campaign buttons

Things to consider doing 1. Canvassing 2. Schools 3. Transportation 4. Outreach 5. Forums, debates or information assemblies 6. Care giving

Questions??!! Legion.org Karen Paris kparis@stic.net (210)269-7090