Shaping Fair Representation: My Journey in Redistricting Advocacy by Alexander

Shaping Fair Representation: My Journey in Redistricting Advocacy by Alexander - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I first discovered the concept of gerrymandering in my junior year, I was shocked by how political power is abused through something as small as the boundaries of a state or federal district. I couldn't quite grasp the magnitude of politicians' ability to draw districts around their selected voters. The consequences were endless. People wouldn't have their voices represented, politicians could become complacent, and the will of some groups could be magnified while others are marginalized. All I could think about for the rest of that day was the fairness of our electoral system.

After learning the basics of gerrymandering, I wanted to learn more about redistricting. My friend and I stayed up late one night, working together to examine each state's district maps. As we searched, I noticed how maps such as Michigan's current proposals, developed by a non-partisan commission, proportionately split its seats along popular vote lines while maintaining geographically compact districts. In a long night of investigation, we eventually got stuck on Maryland as we laughed over how absurdly drawn the 2020 cycle's 3rd congressional district was. We joked about how one district looked like a pirate hook, with another resembling a bike. I came away from our research session realizing how significant the implications of these boundaries were. Proper redistricting requires deep passion and understanding to draw truly representative districts. 

In the summer before my senior year, I took on the challenge of drawing district maps. I found it incredibly interesting and was deeply engaged for hours on end, immersed in studying communities of interest and population data while working to balance geographic compactness and the interests of each district's constituents. "Mom, I'll be up past midnight again," I said as I worked to perfect Ohio's 1st and 8th congressional districts. I later began sharing my maps through social media and sought feedback from citizens and experts to enhance my understanding of representative districts. One constructive critique I received was on the geography of Mahoning and Trumbull County in my version of Ohio's 14th congressional district. The process of receiving feedback was important to me; citizens should have much more input over their maps, and every voice should be heard.

When drawing my maps, I often think about the historical and modern implications of gerrymandering. I lose time contemplating why many politicians purposefully betray the voters for electoral gain. I imagine the real people affected by these decisions. Every district represents a group of constituents with wide-ranging needs and perspectives. I think about what goes through politicians' minds as they propose maps to advance their political agenda. I promised myself never to become complacent in fighting for fair, representative maps.

In my senior year, I started an online club focused on advancing fair redistricting awareness. Like-minded people could share their map work and offer constructive feedback to one another to improve our efforts. I contacted my local state representatives (all of whom had voted for the current maps, which were ruled unconstitutional by the Ohio Supreme Court for "illegal gerrymandering" but not enforced). I sent them examples of fair maps endorsed by independent redistricting commissions and maps that my club and I had worked on together. We didn't expect a response from them, and we focused our work on educating our peers.

Trying to make a difference in things you believe in is crucial. Throughout high school and my gap year, I've looked to make a difference in politics and gerrymandering. Whether through advocacy, encouraging my peers to vote, or speaking with my representatives, I feel democracy works better when everyone is involved. As I look to university, I believe that education will not only be beneficial in furthering my skills and understanding of government but will also help me effectively push for the change I believe in.