AOTL: All Coloradans Deserve Fair Representation as Maps Are Developed

For Immediate Release:
July 23, 2021
Contact:
Margaret Hynds
hynds@redistrictingaction.org

AOTL: All Coloradans Deserve Fair Representation as Maps Are Developed

Redistricting Commissioner’s comments on undocumented
immigrants reinforce offensive stereotypes rather than addressing redistricting concerns
 

Denver, CO -- During a redistricting hearing in Englewood this week, Congressional Redistricting Commissioner William Leone resorted to offensive stereotypes about Colorado’s undocumented immigrant community as a way of minimizing testimony related to the reallocation of the state’s incarcerated population to their home address for redistricting purposes. All On The Line (AOTL) stands with Colorado’s immigrant community and we denounce Commissioner Leone’s offensive statements that further marginalize communities of color. 

“Commissioner Leone’s comments are not only harmful and offensive to Colorado’s immigrant community, they are inaccurate. Undocumented Coloradans are not temporary residents of the state and often times, have lived and contributed to our communities for far longer than a decade,” said Marco Dorado, AOTL Colorado State Director. 

“In 2018, a majority of Colorado voters approved Amendments Y & Z to ensure that all Colorado residents have an opportunity to be reflected and represented in the final approved maps. All Coloradans, regardless of immigration status or whether or not they are incarcerated, should be accurately represented in the redistricting process and in the final maps. All On The Line Colorado will continue to work to ensure the redistricting commissions and final maps are inclusive of all communities across the state,” Dorado continued. 

The audio of Leone’s comments during the joint Independent Redistricting Commissions Public Hearing on Wednesday, Jul 21st  can be found here beginning at 8:43:45. 

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