Founding Mission

"lDW shall be a grass-roots organization working for more equitable representation and participation of Democrat women in all levels of the Democratic Party and in all levels of government. IDW shall work to fulfill this purpose through educational programs and fund-raising activities."

Founders

Brief History

The Illinois Democratic Women was formally known as the Illinois Democratic Women's Caucus. The Illinois Democratic Women's Caucus was founded in 1971 by five Illinois women who attended the Women's Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C. sponsored by the Democratic National Committee.

The Conference encouraged the formation of Democratic women's groups on a state by state basis to work for full and equal participation by women in party functions.

The IDWC had its first statewide convention in November of 1971. In 1983, the Caucus was reorganized and renamed the Illinois Democratic Women.

Since its beginning, IDW has continued to encourage and educate women politically. Membership is open to all dues paying Democrats. It's purpose states: "lDW shall be a grass-roots organization working for more equitable representation and participation of Democrat women in all levels of the Democratic Party and in all levels of government. IDW shall work to fulfill this purpose through educational programs and fund-raising activities."

IDW is an affiliate of the National Federation of Democratic Women, which was formed in October 1971. Rilla Moran Woods was elected the first President. The Federation has two seats on the Democratic National Committee.

IDW is comprised of professional and career women, women who work in the home and retired women. IDW works to unite this wonderful diversity of devoted women behind one common goal--the support of our Party and the involvement of women in the political process.

Past Presidents