John,
BREAKING: the U.S. Census Bureau just released precinct-level census data, marking the official beginning of what will be a contentious and politically impactful nationwide redistricting process. Even more important: we are going to use redistricting to build LGBTQ political power for our community.
To do this, LGBTQ Victory Fund is launching We Belong Together, a national effort to ensure LGBTQ communities are counted and considered when the new district lines are drawn. Joined by Equality California – which pioneered this work in past redistricting efforts – and One Colorado, the project will provide support, resources and data to local organizations and elected officials ready to fight for LGBTQ communities during redistricting. Get involved and read more about LGBTQ Victory Fund's plans to ensure LGBTQ Americans are included in redistricting at victoryfund.org/together.
Historically, LGBTQ people are largely absent from discussions on redistricting – among redistricting entities and elected officials, in media stories and importantly, within the LGBTQ movement itself. Yet we know how consequential redistricting is for LGBTQ representation. A line drawn in the middle of a neighborhood with a large LGBTQ population – or even a line drawn to cut off a corner of that neighborhood – can be the difference between electing an LGBTQ person in the district.
And we need LGBTQ voices in government now more than ever. We can't afford another record-breaking year of anti-trans legislation or to have pro-equality districts carved up. Pitch in today to help Victory Fund create a grassroots movement dedicated to fair maps!
Anti-equality forces are preparing to manipulate the redistricting process to give themselves an advantage in Congressional, state legislative and city council districts. We're already hearing rumors that U.S. Congresswoman Sharice Davids and U.S. Congressman Chris Pappas may have their districts manipulated. We cannot let these seats be stolen! With such a slim pro-equality majority in the U.S. Congress, we cannot afford to ignore redistricting efforts.
That is why we launched this nationwide effort to ensure LGBTQ people are counted by various redistricting entities. We can draw lines that purposely keep LGBTQ neighborhoods and communities together – making it much more likely we will secure LGBTQ representation. Pitch in today to power the fight for fair maps!
Let's get to work,
Sean Meloy
Pronouns: he|him|his
Vice President of Political Programs, LGBTQ Victory Fund
