Over the past two weeks, the Texas Legislature has released district map proposals for the Senate, State House, U.S. Congress and the State board of Education. All 4 map proposals seem to ignore the changing demographics of Texas and dilute the voting power of communities of color. Line drawers have chipped away at districts where communities of color are currently electing a candidate of choice, something that would not have happened if the pre-clearance provision of the Voting Rights Act was still in place.
That's why we need your help to speak out against these maps and demand that communities of color receive fair and effective representation that is guaranteed under the law.
The House Redistricting Committee will be holding a hearing on the proposed Senate districts (SB 4) as well as for the State Board of Education districts (SB 7).
WHEN: Monday, October 11th, 9:00 AM
Ways to participate in this hearing:
1. Register to Provide Virtual Testimony
Note that you must register by Sunday Oct. 10th at 9AM
2. Provide In-Person Testimony: Capitol Extension Auditorium, E1.004
3. Provide Written Comments: Texas residents who wish to electronically submit comments related to the following agenda items without testifying in person can do so until the hearing is adjourned.
Talking Point on Senate Map Proposal: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xTQXl47_oe5lkk1YWDsyUQKbQCo3GL71_wYwpC0aKdc/edit?usp=sharing
Here are some questions that you can use to help you evaluate the district maps:
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Do the new district lines split up your community?
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Do the other areas included in your district have common needs and concerns, or have you been grouped with far-off communities that are drastically different?
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Is your community currently working together to overcome a problem? (For example, flooding or affordable housing.) Would these district lines prevent your community from working together to overcome those issues?
Thanks for your help!