February 26, 2024 — In response to the Legislature voting down the Independent Redistricting Commission’s (IRC) proposed congressional maps, Rosemary Rivera, Executive Director of Citizen Action of New York, issued the following statement:
“The IRC’s Congressional maps failed to unite communities of interest, blatantly side stepping a transparent process and ignoring the testimonies from civic groups calling for Black and brown communities to be connected again. We thank the Legislature for voting down the maps and showing a commitment to fostering a political landscape that respects the diverse needs and perspectives of all New Yorkers.
It is essential for the Legislature to make all efforts in reuniting communities of interest and safeguarding the voices of Black and brown voters, whose representation is crucial to achieving a truly inclusive democracy. When Black and brown communities are divided, their political voice is diluted. The next set of maps can not split densely populated Black and brown communities into multiple Congressional districts, and must prioritize transparency, equity, and fairness.”
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