AOTL Arizona Responds to Grid Maps and Calls for Improvement to Public Mapping Tool

For Immediate Release:
September 16, 2021
Contact:
Fabiola Rodriguez
rodriguez@redistrictingaction.org

Public input processes should allow people to provide critical feedback on grid maps and be easy to use

On Tuesday, the Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC) released initial grid maps, an important step towards the draft maps that are expected to be released in late October. The grid maps released do not consider all of the mapping criteria set forth in the Arizona constitution, instead they are an attempt to draw districts of equal population in a grid-like pattern as a starting point for the map drawing process. 

 
Statement from Arizona AOTL State Director, Kendra Alvarez: 

“As Commissioners and IRC staff have noted, grid maps are simply a starting point and there will be significant adjustments to the grid map as the IRC incorporates the six mapping criteria and public input.
 

“The IRC should be seeking substantial public engagement that truly is accessible to everyone in the state as they make the important transition from grid maps to draft maps. The mapping software that the IRC has offered for public feedback, however, is insufficient. It is a cumbersome tool that users find hard to navigate and the training thus far has been offered only online and only in English. There are no resources for technical support if residents need it. The map also requires statewide submissions, discouraging participation from local community leaders and residents that are most familiar with their own area, by requiring the daunting task of mapping the entire state.
 

“These are limitations that create barriers for certain communities, particularly communities of color that lack internet access, speak languages other than English, or have not seen substantial hearings hosted in their areas. That’s why AOTL calls on the IRC to evaluate which Arizona communities are being served through the public engagement process, make swift changes to their upcoming hearing schedule and improve the mapping tool for easier use and accessibility. We will only see fair maps in Arizona if everyone can be involved.”

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