Empowering Voters. Defending Democracy.

Making Democracy Work Award

The Making Democracy Work Award, established by LWV Chicago in 2008, recognizes and celebrates outstanding community members who demonstrate committed, visionary leadership that strengthens our democracy.

With this award, we honor an individual or group who has taken action to “Make Democracy Work” to benefit residents in Chicago.

2024 AWARD RECIPIENT

2024 AWARD RECIPIENT

Jill Wine-Banks

The League of Women Voters of Chicago is delighted to announce that the recipient of the 2024 Making Democracy Work Award is Jill Wine-Banks.

Jill’s extraordinary career exemplifies the values of justice, truth, and democracy that this award seeks to celebrate. As a trailblazer in law and public service, she made history as the only woman on the team of prosecutors during the Watergate scandal, where her meticulous work helped uphold the rule of law and protect our democratic institutions. Her career continued with her impactful role as General Counsel of the U.S. Army, where she advanced critical initiatives for military justice and governance.

In addition to her government service, Jill has become a leading voice in combating misinformation and fostering informed civic engagement. Through her work as a legal analyst, author, and podcast co-host, she brings clarity and insight to complex legal and political issues, inspiring citizens to take action and hold power to account. Jill’s advocacy for equality and her steadfast support for the publication of the Equal Rights Amendment further underscore her commitment to making democracy work for all. 

Past Award Recipients

2023: Alexi Giannoulias, Illinois Secretary of State

2022: Ami Gandhi, Senior Counsel of Chicago Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights

2020: Lance Gough, former Executive Director of the Chicago Board of Elections Commissioners