As Redistricting Gets Underway, AOTL Texas and Grassroots Groups Call on Politicians to Draw Fair Maps that Give Power Back to the People

For Immediate Release:
August 12, 2021
Contact:
Fabiola Rodriguez
rodriguez@redistrictingaction.org

Today, the United States Census Bureau released final population data that will be used by Texas and states across the country to draw new maps for their redistricting processes. Now that the state has this data, the legislature must work to pass fair maps and ensure the people of Texas have the ability to elect politicians who represent them.

“Politicians in Texas must work in the interest of their constituents and draw maps that give power back to the people. Texans should not have to vote in some of the most gerrymandered districts in the country. We deserve maps with districts that reflect the political make-up of our state and give us the opportunity to elect representatives of our choice,” said Genevieve Van Cleve, Texas All On The Line State Director.

“That’s why Texas’ new congressional districts should be located in or around Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth reflecting the area’s rapid and diverse population growth. All On The Line Texas and our grassroots partners will do everything in our power to work together and ensure that there is a fair and transparent process that results in a map where both parties have to compete to win the support of the voters,” continued Van Cleve.

“Annie's List was directly formed out of a fight for equity in leadership in the Texas House 20 years ago, and we're still fighting because women lawmakers and the communities they represent are under attack from every angle. The GOP’s most dangerous weapon is gerrymandering through redistricting and Texas women are their targets,” said Royce Brooks, Executive Director of Annie's List Training and Engagement Fund.

"Current Texas leaders have a track record of proven intentional discrimination. Any maps that do not create additional districts in which minorities can elect their candidate of choice are by definition discriminatory," said Lorraine Birabil, Executive Director of the Barbara Jordan Leadership Institute.

“Deeds Not Words believes that the path to an equitable shift in the balance of power in Texas begins and ends with civic engagement and the participation of voices that have been intentionally silenced and excluded from decision-making conversations. We are advocating for a redistricting process that is inclusive of the voices of young people and people of color, one that is decentralized, fair and transparent. We will support district maps that reflect the increasing diversity of our state, and ensure accurate representation and distribution of resources which will improve the lives and livelihood of Texans for years to come,” said Andrea Reyes, Political Director at Deeds Not Words.

Afiya
Battleground Texas Engagement Fund
Planned Parenthood Texas Votes
Texas SEIU
Texas American Federation of Teachers
Texas AFL-CIO

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