In the News April 2026
Meeting Today’s Challenges with Continuing Resolve
by Julia Hill-Nichols, President of League of Women Voters of Lower Cape Fear
On a cold March afternoon at home, a stack of magazines and journals caught my attention. Upon reading them, I was especially moved by how many articles focused on the remarkable perseverance of incredible women. One that stood out was Ellen Cushing’s piece, “Women of Avenger Field,” published in The Atlantic in April 2026. It told the story of the WASPs—Women Airforce Service Pilots—who came from varied backgrounds but shared a passion and talent for flying. Formed to address the urgent need for pilots during World War II, 37 WASPs tragically lost their lives in service, with their families shouldering the cost to bring them home. Despite their sacrifices, they were initially denied veteran status.
The struggle for recognition continued: Although WASPs pushed for veteran status in the 1960s without success, their persistence paid off in 1977 when finally, they were acknowledged as veterans and granted benefits. In 2005, a museum was established to honor their legacy. From 1942 to 2005, these women showed unwavering determination and boldness—qualities also reflected in the League of Women Voters, both at our founding 105 years ago, and today. WASP and LWV veterans represent the power of remaining steadfast in our goals.
May we all remain resolute in Empowering Voters and Defending Democracy!
To Our Collective Resolve,
Julia
On a cold March afternoon at home, a stack of magazines and journals caught my attention. Upon reading them, I was especially moved by how many articles focused on the remarkable perseverance of incredible women. One that stood out was Ellen Cushing’s piece, “Women of Avenger Field,” published in The Atlantic in April 2026. It told the story of the WASPs—Women Airforce Service Pilots—who came from varied backgrounds but shared a passion and talent for flying. Formed to address the urgent need for pilots during World War II, 37 WASPs tragically lost their lives in service, with their families shouldering the cost to bring them home. Despite their sacrifices, they were initially denied veteran status.
The struggle for recognition continued: Although WASPs pushed for veteran status in the 1960s without success, their persistence paid off in 1977 when finally, they were acknowledged as veterans and granted benefits. In 2005, a museum was established to honor their legacy. From 1942 to 2005, these women showed unwavering determination and boldness—qualities also reflected in the League of Women Voters, both at our founding 105 years ago, and today. WASP and LWV veterans represent the power of remaining steadfast in our goals.
May we all remain resolute in Empowering Voters and Defending Democracy!
To Our Collective Resolve,
Julia