Census data drives redistricting, and so can you!
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** Did you know that the Census shapes our political representation?
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From the elections to the Census, 2020 is going to require us to use our voices to impact our future. By the end of the year, the Census will be completed and we’ll leave with a snapshot of our nation. This data will be used to determine the support and visibility that our communities need, including the number of seats in Congress and what our congressional districts look like.
Starting in 2021, the district maps will be redrawn to reflect the current state of our neighborhoods. We elect our representatives to serve us, but sometimes our own districts are not drawn to reflect the true makeup of our community. Additionally, losing a district can have a big impact on how loudly our voices will be heard in Congress.
** Why is this important?
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The key component of our democracy is the ability to elect individuals who represent us. But, Congressional districts can be drawn by people in power who essentially choose their voters, making it difficult for the minority in a district to have their needs addressed.
Every 10 years, redistricting occurs based on Census data to account for population shifts. While districts must have an equal number of residents in each geographic area, there are no guidelines for shapes or other factors, making it easy for elected officials to draw maps that divide communities and maintain the status quo. This practice is known as gerrymandering and it disproportionately impacts people of color, working class people, people with disabilities, LGBTQ folks, and other marginalized communities who already face barriers when it comes to advocating for our own needs.
Does this look like a community? These are two prominent examples of gerrymandered districts. Ohio’s 9th Congressional District (L) is known for resembling a snake while the Illinois 4th Congressional District is known as the “earmuff” district (R). In Michigan, we have the power to make sure our districts don’t look like articles of clothing or animals we see in the zoo.
Do you want your voice to be heard beyond 2020? You can start by completing the Census and putting your household on the map. If you live in Michigan, you can join the Independent Citizenship Redistricting Commission (ICRC) and shape our state’s future.
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** Be part of the redistricting process by joining the ICRC!
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In November 2018, Michigan voters approved a constitutional amendment that created the ICRC to bring more transparency into the redistricting process. The Commission will be responsible for holding public hearings, collecting public input, and working together to draw our state’s Congressional districts. Thirteen citizens - four Democrats, four Republicans, and four Independent voters - will be selected at random from a pool of applicants.
This is the first time a Commission will be responsible for redistricting, and you could be a member! It’s critical that this Commission reflects the diversity of our state. We encourage people from marginalized communities to apply. No prior experience is required, and members will be paid a salary for their work and their current jobs will be required by law to hold their position until their term is over. The application period closes on June 1, 2020.
Click here to learn more about ICRC ([link removed])
** Need help completing the Census?
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Do you or someone you know need assistance in completing the Census? We're here to help. Give us a call at 313-451-2011 and we can help you successfully complete the survey. Leave a message with your name and number so members of our staff can call you back if needed.
Our communities have a lot to lose if they are not counted in 2020. While we must do our part to ensure everyone can participate in the Census, a full and accurate count ultimately starts with you. Stand up for Arab American communities by taking the pledge to be counted, even if you have already completed your census!
Pledge to be counted today! ([link removed])
Already taken the pledge? Use our photo frame to show your Facebook friends that you're ready for Census 2020. Click here ([link removed]) to view the frame.
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