WHO DECIDES FOR THE BLUEGRASS?

In April 2025, the League of Women Voters declared that the United States was in a constitutional crisis noting that “the foundational principles that have sustained our democracy - checks and balances, the rule of law, free and fair elections - are under direct and sustained threat.”

In response to this threat, the League launched a nation-wide effort to mobilize voters by demonstrating the “ways voters can drive change through advocacy, mobilization, civic education and engagement.”

Among the ways that the foundation of our democracy is being threatened is by the disregard for the traditional roles and responsibilities of national, state, and local government. The Lexington League Observer Corps observes and reports on the workings of our local government boards and commissions, placing it in a unique position to monitor and educate the public on ways that state and federal policies make it challenging for our local government to carry out its responsibilities to the community it is intended to serve.

The Lexington Observer Corps is tracking and reporting on how our local government is being affected. You can stay informed by checking this website regularly and reading our latest findings. We encourage you to turn this  information into action by contacting your representatives, voicing your knowledge, and working to actively shape the issues that matter to you and the community. Engagement at every level of government  is critical to preserving our democracy!

Impact on Local Government

The Human Rights Commission and Federal Funding

The Lexington-Fayette County Human Rights Commission is charged with enforcing anti-discrimination laws and promoting equal opportunity in housing, employment, and public accommodations. The Commission relies partially on federal funds, including the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help support its work. HUD funds for FY 2025-2026 were finally received in late May 2026, long after the expected date of fall 2025 and less than 6 weeks before the end of the Commission’s 2025-2026 fiscal year. Until late May, according to the Commission Executive Director, Raymond Sexton, the Commission continued to ‘fly blind’ as its caseload increased and no information was provided about how much, if any, or when it would receive funding for FY 2025-2026. This ongoing lack of communication and guidance, as well as the threat of funding cuts hampers the Commission’s ability to fulfill its obligation to the community. To learn more about this issue, read the  detailed Observer Corps report HERE.

—August 17, 2026

What You Can Do

Government transparency and accountability are at the core of our democracy, and understanding how our local government agencies serve our community is more important than ever! We have the fundamental right to actively participate in local, regional, and national governance. Here are some constructive ways you can engage:

1. Advocate!

Contact your elected representatives and other decision makers at every level of government. Elected officials and public servants represent YOU , so they need to hear from you.

2. Join others who are already engaged.

Take action locally with Observer Corps or one of our other committees! Or get involved with the LWVKY for state issues and LWVUS for national campaigns.

3. Share Information

Take opportunities for 1-to-1 or small group conversations to share what you know and clarify your perspective. Let others know about the resources you are using to find out more. Download and share these ways to get involved!