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Dear #Changemakers,
In 1956, the Voting Rights Act was created to outlaw discriminatory practices that often kept certain racial groups from voting. Today, 65 years later, Texas district lines are still drawn to cater to certain racial groups while also endorsing extreme partisan gain. This is called gerrymandering and it is an intentional process to silence the voices of marginalized groups for an entire decade.
Out of all the states, Texas took the lead in the 2020 census as the state with the largest increase in residents, and 95% of these residents were people of color. Despite all this, the proposed maps from the 2021 redistricting process continue to split communities, especially those with a strong electorate and voting strength. These practices distort our perception of democracy and are unconstitutional.
That is why Deeds Not Words has taken the initiative to be a part of creating a more just Texas with Draw Us In, an educational awareness and training program about redistricting. Through this campaign, Changemakers are given the opportunity to craft their own testimony to present to the legislature at public hearings. These testimonies are personal, and a key part of restoring our democracy because everyday people can share how they will be directly impacted by the new proposed districts. For instance, the way district lines for the State Board of Education are drawn is going to influence the quality of curriculum that schools will receive. A poor curriculum results in an achievement gap between underprivileged students and their counterparts and contributes to education inequity.
The issues that Texans face due to gerrymandered districts don't stop here. This past Monday, the Senate Special Committee convened to hear testimony on committee amendments on the proposed Congressional map (PLANC2101). The new districts split up Black and brown communities to dilute their voting power, even forcing incumbent representatives out of their districts.
The testimonies heard at public hearings are provided by Texans from diverse backgrounds— professors, politicians, lawyers, students, and neighbors. Residents are not staying quiet and have continuously let the legislature know what they want for the future of Texas: fair maps, equitable representation, and competitive districts.
There is still a lot of work needed to ensure that Texas is drawn to serve our diverse population and the future generations to come. Thanks to #Changemakers like you, the Lone Star State will be in good hands through the power of mutual aid, public testimony, advocacy, and grassroots organizing.
Bianca Martinez,
Deeds Not Words Redistricting Consultant
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