In early October, the League of Women Voters of North Carolina joined groups like Democracy NC, ACLU of NC, Common Cause NC, and many others in crafting another letter to state legislators regarding the redistricting process. (Read the previous letter, sent in August, here.)
The latest letter asks legislators to ensure the public can meaningfully engage with the map drawing process ahead by:
– Offering the public a meaningful way to learn about and engage in the redistricting process online.
– Including North Carolinians who speak different languages in the redistricting process.
– Guaranteeing that public comment is taken into consideration when drawing maps.
– Performing all map drawing in public view.
– Ensuring the public can observe the map drawing process in an online format.
– Disclosing all parties involved with the map drawing process.
– Disclosing all systems used in map drawing to the public.
– Releasing draft maps for public inspection as soon as possible.
– Holding public hearings after draft maps are released.
The letter concludes:
"As we enter this next critical phase of redistricting, North Carolianians deserve nothing less than a participatory, inclusive, and transparent process.
As committee members repeatedly heard over the past four weeks, the maps you draw are not just political in nature — they have real, long-lasting consequences on communities across North Carolina.
Now is the time for you to rise to the level demanded by your constituents. We challenge you to draw maps that reflect the vibrancy and diversity of North Carolina — and in such a manner that ensures a trustworthy process."
Read the full letter here.
