Republican legislative leadership wants to update several of the state’s voting maps, and that could include judicial, congressional, and legislative seats. Democratic lawmakers have taken a stance against redistricting, arguing that in the wake of the Supreme Court decision on Calais, the state risks weakening the voting strength of Black voters with fewer options for legal recourse.
During the meeting held at Itawamba Community College, local resident Chris Traylor wanted to ask lawmakers a question. He was told they were only hearing public comments and not be giving statements. Traylor said he still wanted to know exactly why redistricting was happening.
“I feel in my heart that redistricting is wrong. I mean, there’s no reason to redistrict. If 87 [gas] is working in my car, I don’t need 89 gas,” said Traylor
Tupelo native Katie Gilbert challenged lawmakers, and said redistricting was harming Mississippi.
“We wonder a lot of times why a lot of educated young folks leave this state. It’s because of injustices and racism that crushes opportunity and community in this state,” said Gilbert. “It’s the backward thinking like this decision to redistrict Mississippi when we don’t have to that keeps Mississippi stuck in the past.”
Another attendee, Mike Walker, spoke on behalf of himself and his grandchildren. He pushed back against negative comments made throughout the meeting.
“All I’ve heard up here today is bashing these elected representatives for what they’re trying to do for the State of Mississippi,” said Walker. “Well let me ask you; What color is your soul? We’re not fighting Democrats and Republicans. We’re fighting good versus evil. Wake up, people. Wake up.”
Future meetings include:
Tuesday, September 1 at Delta State University in Cleveland
Tuesday, September 8 at Alcorn State University in Natchez
Thursday, September 10 in Meridian (Location TBD)
Thursday, September 17 at The University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg
Tuesday, September 22 at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College in Gulfport
Thursday, September 24 in the State Capitol in Jackson
