HomeUnite and Rise

Unite and Rise 8.5

An Initiative to Defend Democracy

The United States is in a constitutional crisis. Now is the time to band together to defend our constitution, protect the rule of law, demand the preservation of checks and balances, safeguard the right to vote, and build a democracy where every person and every voice counts.

What is a constitutional crisis?

When the following occurs, the constitution is deemed at the highest risk and full-scale action to preserve and protect democratic institutions and civil society is warranted:

➤ the executive, the legislative, or judiciary branches cannot or will not adequately protect the US Constitution,

➤ there are explicit attempts to dismantle a functional democracy within any of the three branches, or

➤ any level of federal government takes action to destroy democratic institutions in a manner that intentionally or purposefully jeopardizes the US Constitution.

Unite and Rise 8.5 Video Series Now Streaming

As part of its Unite & Rise campaign – an effort to mobilize 8.5 million voters in the runup to the November 3, 2026 midterm elections, the League of Women Voters of the United States has launched the Unite and Rise 8.5 video series now streaming on YouTube.

Hosted by LWVUS CEO Celina Stewart, the series focuses on a critical question: How can Americans effectively stand up and speak to defend our democracy? Episode one introduces the research behind the Unite & Rise initiative. Dr. Erica Chenoweth, political scientist and author of Bread and Roses: Women on the Frontlines of Revolution, examines how community mobilization, nonviolent strategy, and civic engagement are essential tools for protecting democratic institutions today. Episode two discusses the intersection of faith and activism and how spiritual traditions drive political participation. Episode three focuses on young voters, outlining how tangible, youth-led projects can combat youth apathy and build a sense of agency and impact among young voters.

See the video series here ICYMI: Unite and Rise 8.5 Video Series Now Streaming | League of Women Voters.

For more information on the campaign see Unite & Rise 8.5.

What is Unite and Rise 8.5?

The League of Women Voters’ Unite & Rise 8.5 initiative aims to mobilize 8.5 million voters using the power of voter engagement as a cornerstone of our democracy. It showcases the many ways voters can drive change through advocacy, mobilization, civic education, and engagement. We need you to be a part of this movement and help us grow this network of 8.5 million people who commit to defend our democracy.

Why 8.5 million?

The number 8.5 million is the estimated number of voters it would take to bring about change through nonviolent protest.

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

What is LWV asking members to do?

Take action by voting and volunteering to ensure our freedom to vote is protected.
Mobilize in nonviolent efforts to hold government accountable.
Stay informed about the policies and decisions that affect us all, combat disinformation, and amplify the voices and stories of those most impacted.
Sign the commitment letter here.

What you can do now

Tell Congress to guarantee the right to vote - click here
Hold congress accountable for the One Big Beautiful Bill - click here
Tell Your senators to oppose the SAVE Act - click here
See our letter to the editor on midcycle redistricting LTE - Fair Maps and contact Governor Newsom to oppose his plan.
For more information and more ideas on what you can do see Unite and Rise 8.5: An Initiative to Defend Democracy | League of Women Voters

Additional Resources

League's CEO Celine Stewart's message here.