League of Women Voters of New Jersey to hold public forum on redistricting and gerrymandering at Montclair State University

Trenton, NJ – The League of Women Voters of New Jersey – together with Montclair State University, the Network for Responsible Public Policy and their Fair Districts New Jersey coalition partners – will hold a public forum on gerrymandering, the legislative redistricting process and ideas for reforms. The forums are a continuation of the voter education work by both the League and the Network for Responsible Public Policy to demystify a process that has a great impact on our communities and our political representation, but that few fully understand.

The forum, “Redistricting Reform Best Practices for a Fairer New Jersey,” is one in a series of ten public forums across the state. It will take place on Wednesday, February 13th from 7pm – 8:30pm in Montclair State University’s Presentation Hall, School of Communication and Media, 1 Normal Avenue, Montclair, New Jersey.

Speakers include Brigid Callahan Harrison, Professor of Political Science and Law at Montclair State University, and Helen Kioukis, Lead Organizer for the Fair Districts New Jersey campaign. Additional speakers will be announced soon.

“We saw massive public outcry against the flawed redistricting proposals that were being fast-tracked through the Legislature last month, so we know New Jersey residents really care about how their district lines are drawn. Voters want to be picking their politicians, not the other way around,” said Helen Kioukis.

“The importance of redistricting as a determinant of who represents us cannot be overstated,” said Brigid Callahan Harrison. “The process of drawing district lines effects the party composition of our legislatures and determines whether elections will be competitive, and whether diverse constituencies will be represented. It’s imperative that the public is informed about this crucial process.”

In addition to outlining the current legislative redistricting process in New Jersey, attendees will learn about anti-gerrymandering reforms in other states and redistricting principles and best practices that can be applied in New Jersey. They will also have the opportunity to submit feedback on ideas for reforms. “We want to encourage ongoing public commentary on redistricting so citizens feel empowered to participate in the next map-drawing process,” said Kioukis.

At the conclusion of the public forums, the League plans to submit a report with the public’s suggestions to decision-makers as they continue their policy talks.

The event is free and open to the public.

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