[LWVNM Action] Need letters to the editor on redistricting

[Richard Mason]

Below is an example of an effective letter to the editor on redistricting.
I am also attaching a document with various themes that can be used, but
the content should always contain the message that the Citizen
Redistricting Committee was a victory for New Mexicans and that the
legislature should show the same respect for fairness and transparency.

Local Presidents can sign for the local Leagues. I checked with Hannah.
Others can write as individuals.

The redistricting special session starts on December 6th

Thank you and please forward any letters to Kathleen at
fairdistricts at lwvnm.org

Thanks,

Dick Mason

HE CRC PROCESS HAS BEEN A
VICTORY FOR NEW MEXICANS
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LTE by Evelyn Vinogradov to *The Independent* newspaper in Edgewood, NM,
Fri 11/12/21

I have previously written about the Citizen’s Redistricting Committee and
its effort to study/recommend the redrawing of political districts in NM.

I’m pleased to say that the CRC has operated openly and provided plentiful
opportunities for public comment (mine included), which they used to
develop the maps that reflect the wishes of New Mexicans. The CRC has
submitted its specific map recommendations to the public and to our
legislators. The ball is now in the Roundhouse’s court.

During the upcoming Special Session the Legislature should show the same
respect for the people of New Mexico by following the guidance of the
Citizen Redistricting Committee.

MY SPECIFIC ASKS OF THE LEGISLATURE ARE AS FOLLOWS

A. Select the CRC maps that:

-Comply with the Voting Rights Act
-Are free of partisan gerrymandering
-Protect Communities of Interest
-Respect governmental boundaries including Tribal boundaries.
-Avoid favoring incumbents.

B. If the Legislature amends the maps sent to them by the CRC, they should
provide a detailed explanation of why they amended the maps.

C. During the Special Session on Redistricting all Legislative meetings
should follow the letter and spirit of the Open Meetings Act. The public's
business should be conducted in full public view. The actions of the public
bodies should be taken openly and all deliberations be made open to the
public. Public access to the proceedings is an essential element of a
properly functioning democracy.

We have paid attention to the redistricting process and will continue to do
so.
I’m sure your legislator would like to hear from constituents on this issue.
Find contact information here:
https://www.nmlegis.gov/Members/Find_My_Legislator
<https://facebook.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6e06348b3a55445c6dd49fb3d&id=df700e42c7&e=511ae1a709>
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