Building Partnerships for a Stronger Democracy

November 2025 – January 2026

Why 8.5?

Unite & Rise 8.5 is an initiative of the League of Women Voters that and part of the organization’s part of our Women Defend Democracy campaign that aims to build a movement of 8.5 million individuals to unite and rise up against the anti-democratic actions of this administration.

Unite & Rise 8.5 is divided into phases. The next phase — from November 2025 to January 2026 is about relationships that make democracy real.

This season, we’re reaching beyond the League to connect with community groups, educators, faith organizations, and local leaders who share a commitment to fairness, civic participation, and inclusion.

Together we’re finding common ground, exchanging ideas, and taking small, powerful steps that move us toward a more resilient democracy—one built on trust, respect, and shared purpose.

✨ Want to collaborate? We’d love to partner with you. Contact us to start the conversation.

The number 8.5 million is the estimated number of voters it would take to bring about change through nonviolent protest. This is based on the following finding from the Carr-Ryan Center for Human Rights: 

“Nonviolent protests are twice as likely to succeed as armed conflicts...and those engaging a threshold of 3.5% of the population have never failed to bring about change.” 

According to the University of Florida, approximately 245 million Americans were eligible to vote in the 2024 general election. According to the above research, if 3.5% of these eligible voters — 8,575,000 people — engage in nonviolent protests, we will bring about meaningful change. 

  • What Is Unite & Rise 8.5?

    The League of Women Voters initiative that helps local Leagues deepen their community roots and expand civic participation. Every few months, Leagues across the country focus on a new pillar of democratic engagement. The November–January phase centers on Building Relationships — connecting with community partners and individuals who share our belief in informed, inclusive, and accountable government.

    By strengthening local ties, we help democracy flourish from the ground up. Democracy grows in good company — and you’re invited.

  • What We’re Doing in Bloomington

    Here in Bloomington, we’re reaching out to schools, neighborhood associations, nonprofits, faith communities, and civic groups to build lasting partnerships. Our goal is to listen, learn, and collaborate in ways that make civic participation more welcoming and accessible for everyone.

    During this phase, League members are meeting with local leaders, sharing resources, and exploring ways to co-host events — from voter-education sessions to community discussions. Each connection helps create a more vibrant and responsive civic network right here at home.

  • How You Can Join

    There are many ways to be part of this effort.

    • Individuals: Join the League and bring your energy, ideas, and curiosity. You’ll meet others who care deeply about democracy and community.
    • Organizations: Partner with us! Whether you’re a student group, a nonprofit, or a local business, we’d love to collaborate on events and initiatives that inspire informed participation.

    Together, we can build bridges that make our democracy stronger and more inclusive. Join us!

  • Why It Matters

    Real change happens when people trust and work with one another. Every new partnership expands the reach of civic engagement and opens doors to new voices. When we unite across differences, we rise together to create communities that reflect fairness, transparency, and respect.

    The Unite & Rise 8.5 initiative reminds us that democracy isn’t a solo project — it’s a shared endeavor. Each conversation, each collaboration, and each connection moves us closer to the healthy, resilient democracy we all deserve.