The League of Women Voters of North Dakota has announced the formation of the League of Women Voters of Plum Valley chapter in Minot.

LWV Plum Valley grew out of conversations among several women in Minot who identified a need to empower voters, defend democracy, increase participation and build community.

“Voting is an essential part of American citizenship,” said LWV Plum Valley Chapter President Denise Dykeman. “Our Minot group is passionate about making sure that everyone, including students, seniors, parents, farmers and regular working people, know their options for voting and can easily find information about the candidates to make informed choices.”

LWV Plum Valley leadership has been in communication with the Ward County auditor to make sure the information it provides to its members aligns with city and local rules.

“We are here to support our state election officials. These folks and poll workers deserve our respect and thanks for all they do to preserve our democratic institutions,” Dykeman said.

The members voted to form a league chapter in November 2023 and were recognized by the LWVUS office in January. The name “Plum Valley” comes from the Arikara name for the region and is a nod to the book “Plum Valley Women,” a historical account of the women of Minot.

The newly elected chapter officers in addition to Dykeman are Whitney Montonye, vice president; Heidi Super, secretary/treasurer; Anna Dykeman, legislative/government chair; and Sareli Beltran, membership chair. The group currently has 33 members and welcomes members of all genders and sexual orientations.

LWV Plum Valley is sponsoring a “How to Run for Elected Office” event at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 29 at the Minot Public Library. The event will focus on how to run for elected local offices such as city council, park board, school board and county commission. The event is free and open to the public.

The next regular chapter meeting of LWV Plum Valley will be at 6 p.m. on March 11 at the Parker Senior Center in downtown Minot. The group will be celebrating Women’s History Month and planning upcoming voter education events.