KNOW YOUR RIGHTS WHEN HEADED TO THE POLLS

November 6th is drawing near, do you know your voting rights? In response to the recent affront to voting rights affecting states across the nation, the ACLU launched "Let Me Vote."  This campaign aims to inform voters of their rights at the polls to ensure every vote is counted. 

West Virginia Voting Rights Brochure

West Virginia Secretary of State's Voting Rights Guide

Check if you are registered to vote

For more information on how to register to vote, how to update your registration, or change your party affiliation check out the Secretary of State's webpage.  check if you are registered to vote

TEACH KIDS NOT STEREOTYPES

On May 21st, the ACLU of WV sent demand letters in conjunction with school districts in Florida, Maine, Virginia, Mississippi, and Alabama insisting that they take steps to end single-sex programs that rely on and promote archaic and harmful sex stereotypes as part of a new campaign called Teach Kids, Not Stereotypes. 

In West Virginia, Cabell, Kanawha, and Wood county each recieved  demand letters.  Since then, both Kanawha County and Cabell County have agreed to suspend single-sex classes for the upcoming school year.  Wood County's Board of Education voted on 7/2/2012 to continue their single-sex classes for the upcoming school year.

To learn more about single sex classes read a Wood County parent's plight for equal education.

Press Release: West Virginia Family Challenges Single-Sex Middle School Program Rooted in Stereotypes

Press Release: ACLU Asks 5 WV Public Schools to Cease Sex-Segregation

Demand Letter: Cabell County Schools

Demand Letter: Kanawha County Schools

Demand Letter: Wood County Schools

ACLU of West Virginia in Partnership with Fairness WV Launch WV Bully-Free

UPDATE: 12/14/2011 West Virginia's Board of Education voted to include bullying protections for students based on sexual orientation and gender identity.  This is the first time in West Virginia that a statewide policy includes such provisions.  With this passage we are one step closer to both safe schools and equality.  Thanks to all those who've spoke up and showed your support!

Because we believe all children are entitled to be themselves while attending school in a safe and supportive learning environment, ACLU of West Virginia in partnership with Fairness WV officially launched WV Bully Free, a campaign for safe schools. 

WV Bully-Free is a statewide anti-bullying campaign which takes a stand against bullying by documenting stories of harassment based on perceived sexual orientation and gender identity in order to raise awareness.

The campaign encourages individuals to add their voices to the conversation and take an active role in ending bullying. We encourage you to listen to their stories and pledge to make West Virginia schools safe for all students. 

For more information on the campaign, learn the facts.

 *Note the campaign website is maintained independently of the ACLU of WV's webpage.