We are nearing the time that our City and County officials vote on the approval of the proposed election maps. This process, occurring every 10 years, heavily impacts almost every aspect of our lives--from which school a child attends to a community’s representation. The new maps, once approved, will dictate our representation for the next ten years.

The League has worked diligently to assure the fairness of state and local maps and a transparent process. Recently, the new redistricting maps for the city of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County and the School Board have been made available for public scrutiny and the opportunity to voice our responses. Please see the attached newsletter from Harry Taylor regarding dates, times, and other information.

The League considers it paramount to provide our members with the knowledge and understanding of how these maps will impact our citizens. Responding to this need, the League is hosting a virtual PANEL OF EXPERTS (Dr. Michael Bitzer and Harry Taylor) on Thursday Oct 14, 7pm. The ZOOM meeting link is below.

The Panel host is LWVCM Board member Dr. Susan Harden, an Assistant Professor of Education at UNC Charlotte and the Director for the Civic Minor in Urban Youth and Communities and the Charlotte Community Scholars undergraduate research program. 

Dr. Michael Bitzer, a political analyst for several media sources, is a Professor of Politics and History at Catawba College and a Pre-Law Advisor. His blog on North Carolina politics is found at www.OldNorthStatePolitics.com. Dr. Bitzer is a frequent speaker on the North Carolina redistricting process.

Joining Dr. Bitzer is veteran League member.  Harry Taylor, who leads our Fair Maps Action Team. Harry is profoundly well versed on the election maps submitted for approval and works tirelessly to eliminate gerrymandering. All attendees at state-wide hearings, rallies and meetings will remember Harry’s orange puppet, Gerry Mander.

Please join us for this very informative event on redistricting and the effects on our community.