The League of Women Voters of Larimer County will mark the 89th anniversary of the founding of the national League of Women Voters this month by celebrating with a tea on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2 to 4 p.m., at the Rangeview Clubhouse, 4550 Larkbunting, Fort Collins. Titled “From Bars to Ballots: Tales of Women’s Suffrage,” the program will feature Jean Wyrick, a retired English professor from CSU, who will appear in period dress of the early 1900′s to share tales of the women who campaigned for the right of women to vote. She will also bring memorabilia from this historic period that shaped this hard-won freedom for women. Interested community members are invited to attend and learn more about the past and present activities of the League of Women Voters. Please RSVP to (970) 221-2037 or (970) 484-2259.

“For nearly nine decades, the League has worked to ensure our democracy is transparent, effective, and truly representative,” said national League president Mary G. Wilson. “Those challenges are as real today as they were for our suffragist foremothers who struggled for their right to vote so many years ago.”

“On the eve of our 89th birthday, the League’s trusted legacy and grassroots strength remain as vital to a healthy and transparent government as in our infancy,” said Wilson.

“We take seriously our legacy of providing trustworthy and balanced resources to citizens and lawmakers. During the first 89 years the League of Women Voters truly has left its footprint on American history, and our democracy is stronger because of it. We look forward to continuing to strengthen our representative democracy over the next 89 years.”

“Now is the time for Americans to come together and tackle the tough challenges we all face,” said local League spokesperson Carol Rush. “We are so proud that in over 850 communities nationwide, the League of Women Voters remains THE trusted place for citizens to discuss issues, ask difficult questions, and demand accountability from their government to help keep communities healthy, vibrant, and strong.”