REPUBLICAN WOMEN OF MARYLAND 283

I am proud to say that the State of Maryland has begun to assert
itself. The 1967 General Assembly by calling for a Constitutional
Convention, reforming the State's tax structure, enacting fair housing
legislation, and facing up squarely to the most sensitive and strenuous
issues of our day, recognized its responsibility to the people and set a
record of accomplishment unprecedented in our State's history.

Several factors precipitated this success. Reapportionment, which
enabled representation within the State to reflect more accurately the
will of the people, perhaps was the single most important factor. Nor
can we discount the split in the Democratic Party which allowed new
leadership — both Democratic and Republican — to come to power.

For the Republican Party both reapportionment and conflict within
the Democratic ranks have provided unprecedented opportunity. An
opportunity we must capitalize upon now before the memory dims
and the moment disappears.

The Maryland Federation of Republican Women has an essential
role to play in this effort. A role, not defined by traditional views
nor image makers from without the Party. But a role and a commit-
ment for a dedication directed from within your organization. For
only you know the full capability of your organization and only you
can assess the full potential of your talents.

I can see six major areas in which all Maryland's Republicans must
concentrate, and in each of these, I believe the Federation of Repub-
lican Women is uniquely equipped to lead the way.

One: A vigorous public relations and public information cam-
paign must be conducted to illuminate exactly what the Maryland
Republican Party is and what it stands for — its goals, its ideals and
its objectives.

Above all we must drive home the idea that a genuine two-party
system is essential to good government.

Two: A vigorous registration campaign must be launched to as-
sure that Maryland will have a two-party system on the books as well
as in the minds of its citizens. Personal contact will be the key. The
Republican Women should develop creative approaches to achieve
this end. Neighborhood Republican gatherings can dramatize that a
political party, like a social one, is composed of interested and inter-
esting people, sharing compatible views and aspirations.

How many of our neighbors really are registered Democrats because
of commitment to the Democratic Party line? How many are regis-
tered Democrats in this State for the more natural but unremarkable