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The annual
potluck picnic was successfully organized this year by Harriet Cutler. As
usual, the food was provided by members for members, and was luscious.
In
commemoration of Women's Equality Day, this year’s guest speaker was Debra
Johanyak, Professor of English at the University of Akron and author of,
“Behind the Veil”. She spoke on her experiences living in Iran during the
years of 1978 to 1980. As a young mother in another culture, Johanyak had
many adjustments to make and learned a great deal about the differences and
similarities between the United States and Iran. She noted that the Persians
are not Arab and speak Farsi. She gave a quick overview of Iranian/Persian
history including the role of the United States intervention in the 1950’s
election and our support for the Shah, and how repercussions are still being
felt.
The
comfort of visitors and guests is foremost in the culture and she was
welcomed by her husband’s family. The level of religiosity of individuals
affected dress and relationships. While her sons and former husband are all
in this country, all would like to go back to Iran when things settle down,
which she anticipates is slowly occurring.
In the
business portion of the night, LWVAA voted to form a committee to review the
Recall parameters in the city charter. The motion was made, seconded and
unanimously approved. Of late and in part due to our visibility at both
city and county council meetings thanks to Jean Questel re-establishing the
Observer Corps, LWVAA has been invited to participate in a couple of
community issues. President Erica Greer noted that the National Conference
of Mayors contacted her to comment on recalls in general because of her
letter that appeared in the Akron Beacon Journal on that topic.
On a
related note, Greer reiterated that these acknowledgements by community and
governmental entities substantiate the value of the League. And while that
is vital, so is increasing involvement of our membership to serve on
committees, as well as increasing our membership rolls. To that end, please
consider participating in one of the many committees working for the
betterment of our community beginning this fall with Voter Services (Gerry
Hall), Voter Registration, The Recall Revision study (Mary Lou Gault/Diana
Kingsbury), Observer Corps of Akron City Council or Summit County Council
meetings (Ned DeLamatre), Membership (Jodie DeLamatre).
And don’t
forget to ask people to JOIN THE LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF THE AKRON AREA!!!
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