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The League of Women Voters of Anchorage invites the community to the Z. J. Loussac Public Library on January 10 for Democracy Fair. From 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, this event will serve as a central hub for civic education and engagement. Attendees can explore all four levels of the library to learn from experts, view historical exhibits, and connect with more than 20 local organizations dedicated to public service and advocacy.
The Democracy Fair begins at 11 am at the Wilda Marston Theatre, with a welcome ceremony and film detailing the history of the League of Women Voters of Anchorage. Throughout the afternoon, distinguished speakers will address various issues related to democracy, including the U.S. Constitution, the foundations of civic engagement, and the interrelation of Alaska’s legal systems. Speakers include former U.S. Senator Mark Begich, ACLU Executive Director Mara Kimmel, and retired Superior Court Judge Eric Smith.
A broad range of experts and community advocates will also speak, including attorney Susan Orlansky, Marla Greenstein of the Alaska Commission on Judicial Conduct, Legislative Services Director Clare Ross, and MOA Deputy Chief of Staff Barbara Jones.
The Learning Commons on Level 4 serves as the central hub for our booth exhibitors, featuring a diverse group of 20 local organizations. While the main stage hosts our speakers, this interactive space allows you to connect directly with advocates and non-profits. They are:
The Alaska Center | Alaska Common Ground | Alaska March On | Alaska Press Club/Alaska Center for Excellence in Journalism | Alaska Voter Hub | Alaska World Affairs Council | Alaskans for Better Elections | Anchorage Against Christian Nationalism | Anchorage Equal Rights Commission | Anchorage Municipal Ombudsman | Anchorage Municipal Elections | Anchorage Women’s Commission | Disability Law Center | Federation of Community Councils | League of Women Voters of Anchorage & Youth Vote | Office of Equity & Inclusion (MOA) | Stand Up Alaska | Umoja Coworking & Incubator |Zonta Club of Anchorage
The Democracy Fair is a free, family-friendly event, and every member of the community is encouraged to attend. Whether you are a first-time voter or a lifelong resident, this gathering offers a welcoming environment to learn about the democratic process and our shared civic duties.
Agenda
Level 1, WILDA MARSTON THEATRE
- 11:00-11:15 Democracy Fair Opening
- 11:15-12:00: Democracy and the Constitution – Susan Orlansky, Attorney; Mara Kimmel, Executive Director, ACLU; Mark Begich, Businessman & Former Public Servant
- 12:00-12:45: Local Government 101 – Clare Ross, Legislative Services Director and Barbara Jones, Deputy Chief of Staff, MOA
- 12:45-1:30: Break- Visit exhibits, View the film
- 1:30-2:15: Judicial System – Eric Smith, Retired Superior Court Judge; Marla N. Greenstein, Executive Director, Alaska Commission on Judicial Conduct
- 2:15-3:00: Media Literacy – John McKay, Joy Mapaye, Ph.D., and Evan Leaf, UAA student, young voter
Level 2, MOOSE ROOM
- 12:00 & 1:00 – Film showing “The Officials”
Level 3
- ALL DAY – Alaska Suffrage Star Exhibit
Level 4
- ALL DAY – Exhibitors