OBSERVER Photo by Mary Heyl Members of the League of Women Voters read the Declaration of Sentiments aloud on the steps of Dunkirk’s City Hall over the summer. Here, they are holding the women’s suffrage flag, which has 36 stars to represent the 36 states required to ratify the 19th amendment. Pictured from left to right are Mary Croxton of Fredonia, Judi Lutz Woods of Fredonia, Marcia Westling Johnson of Fredonia, Nicki Schoenl of Forestville and Joyce Haines of Fredonia.

Friday marked an important day in the history of the United States of America. It was the 100th anniversary of the League of Women Voters.

“The League was founded by suffrage leaders 100 years ago to help American women exercise their new right to vote,” said Mary Croxton, president of the League of Women Voters of Chautauqua County. “So we’re celebrating by joining Leagues across the country in demonstrating the power of women to achieve a more perfect democracy.”

Chautauqua County is fortunate to have such an engaged group and chapter. Besides playing a role in educating voters through debates that take place around each election, the League also takes on a number of key topics. Last month, it focused on farming. In November, they invited a speaker to discuss the possibility of windmills in Lake Erie.

Even if you do not agree with the topic, the League here for years has always tried to bring about a certain understanding of hot topics and candidates. In the era of social media, that is not easy.

Many, through their platform of choice — including our current president — use one-liners or crass comments to discuss issues. That has led to a major divide in this country.

For its part, the Chautauqua County League of Women Voters has always been focused on bringing to residents different viewpoints. From there, it is up to the individual to make up their minds.

That, for all intents and purposes, promotes democracy.