Previous Events from the Idaho League of Women Voters

A group of women and a few men gathered in a room with beige walls and purple chairs, participating in an event. The tables are decorated with pink flowers and set with papers, pamphlets, notebooks, and cups. There is a buffet table with snacks and drinks, and a bulletin board with posters and informational materials on one wall.

The 39th LWVID Biennial Convention Centers on Women’s Health Care Desert in Idaho

Welcome & Theme

The League of Women Voters of Idaho (LWVID) held its 39th Biennial Convention on June 14, 2025, in scenic Coeur d’Alene, hosted by the Kootenai County League (LWVKC).

The convention theme, Women’s Health Care Desert in Idaho was a timely and urgent topic, explored through a powerful panel discussion and the moving theatrical production In Defiance of Silence.

A smiling woman in a navy blue dress stands outside a building, holding a paper cup. A large heart-shaped sign with pink flowers and the text 'WELCOME LWID' is attached to the door behind her.

Friday Evening Kickoff

This year’s convention kicked off Friday evening with a BBQ hosted by LWVKC President Mike Bullard and his wife Elizabeth, featuring a suffragette sing-along led by local musician Max Mendez.

Two women talking in front of a display table with framed photographs and informational signs, celebrating women's voting history.

Key Convention Actions

Saturday began with a breakfast at the Lutheran Church on Ramsey Road, prepared by Elizabeth Rose and volunteers from LWVKC. Delegates received decorated packets and “goodie bags” from the State League, setting a festive and productive tone for the day.

The convention’s business meeting, led by Co-President Jean Henscheid, covered several key items:

  • Approval of a By-Laws amendment for the new ChapterSpot membership system

  • Election of new officers for the 2025–2027 term

  • Adoption of the 2025–2027 budget

  • Voting on future program action priorities

A group of people in a meeting or workshop setting inside a room with pink tablecloth-covered tables, floral centerpieces, and quilted wall hangings. A speaker with a beard, wearing a colorful patterned shirt, stands at the front addressing the attendees. The room has windows with blinds, fluorescent lighting, and an air conditioning unit.

Women’s Health Care Panel

Women’s Health Care emerged as a top priority for the League going forward. The panel, moderated by Mike Bullard, featured:

  • Dr. Bernadine Bank, gynecologist

  • Amanda Krier, Executive Director of Safe Passages

  • Jan Swinton, educator at the Barton English Language School

  • Mike Baker, CEO of Heritage Health

Each speaker addressed the real-world consequences of Idaho’s rapidly changing healthcare landscape from restricted reproductive rights to a growing exodus of healthcare professionals.

Special guest Alexis Juday-Marshall, LWVUS Board Member, provided a national update and answered questions from members.

A woman in a pink floral dress waving near a decorated table with fruit, candles, and flowers at a party or celebration in a room with wood accents.

Closing Event & Inspiration

The day concluded with a stirring evening at Art Spirit Gallery for Worth of a Woman, followed by the powerful performance In Defiance of Silence—a fitting end to an inspiring convention.

LWVID members left energized, connected, and committed to taking action. Thank you to everyone who made this a success!

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