By Attorney Raven Beach
The topic of redistricting is again in the headlines. But this time, it hits closer to home.
First, what is redistricting? Redistricting is the way we change voting districts. It is important because how the lines are drawn could determine who represents us. The lines must comply with the Voting Right Act, which guarantees a citizen the right to vote without discrimination based on race or color.
In 2023, the courts ruled Alabama’s congressional map violated the Voting Rights Act. In 2024, the lines were redrawn, creating a second minority district in the state. This case is back in court to determine if the state will keep the new court-created district.
Madison County is now under the microscope with the Alabama NAACP challenging our district lines. A lawsuit appears to be imminent if the Madison County Commission does not address the glaring issue of disproportionate representation of its minority citizens. Currently, Madison County District 6 Commissioner Violet Edwards represents the sole minority district. Edwards made history as the first Black female Commissioner when first elected in 2020.
“Madison County’s District 6, Huntsville City Schools’s District 1, Huntsville City Council District 1, and the State Congressional District 2 were all formed from a lawsuit,” said Edwards. “I’ve urged my counterparts to take this threat seriously and not risk costly federal mandate.”
On February 12th, Commissioner Edwards added the topic of redistricting to the agenda, under the Sunshine Law. The Sunshine Law requires a governmental department or agency to open its meetings or records to public access. Unfortunately, no public discussion took place, with the commission voting to move into the executive session instead. Executive sessions allow for private conversations on sensitive matters – this met that criterion because the discussion was on a pending lawsuit.
My hope is that a map agreeable to both parties can be approved without the necessity of litigation. After all, we are known as the most progressive and educated county in the great state of Alabama. I guess time will tell.
CONTACT INFO.
Raven Perry-Beach, Esq.
107 Jefferson St.
Suite 14
Huntsville, AL 35801
(256) 799-0292
* Licensed in Alabama, Tennessee, Massachusetts, and DC
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