This spring and summer, ACTivists have been out in force to end gerrymandering in New York State and to make non-partisan redistricting a reality. (For background on the issue, click here and here.)
Unfortunately, our legislature has still not passed non-partisan redistricting even though they promised, and now the redistricting process has started. No, not the non-partisan process New Yorkers desire and deserve, but the same-old process – LATFOR, for short – that has thus far been responsible for drawing unfair lines to keep incumbents in office.
That’s why we are asking you to do two things:
1) Join us in calling for the New York State Senate and Assembly to return for a special session to pass non-partisan redistricting NOW. Please contact your State Senator and Assembly Member today.
2) Join us in entering official testimony at the official redistricting hearings happening across the state. Our Organizers have already appeared at hearings in Westchester and Albany, and are here to help you stand up for your community and make your voice heard on the issue of gerrymandering.
Why testify for LATFOR while calling for another body to be formed?
Because if non-partisan redistricting does pass – as we believe it should – the testimony we provide to LATFOR can be rolled over into the new process. If it does not pass, and Governor Cuomo vetoes the LATFOR maps as promised, then the redistricting decision will go to the courts and the judges will read our testimony.
In essence, no matter the political scenario, submitting testimony at LATFOR is crucial to our fight for a fair, transparent redistricting process.
That means, we need YOU to come with us and testify at the hearings. If your community has been affected by gerrymandering, and you want this year’s redistricting process to make it right, this is your big shot! If you believe that district lines should be drawn fairly and transparently, instead of behind closed doors by political incumbents, this is your moment to say so!
You can submit testimony in writing anytime up to the date of the hearings or, better yet, you can come with the rest of us and submit your testimony in person. For more information on hearing dates and for help in submitting testimony, simply contact us.
As always, thank you for being with us!
