Fair Representation
I write as a 5-year Philadelphia resident and a supporter of the Pennsylvania Religious Action Center for Reform Judaism, giving testimony for fair and racially equitable maps with Reform Jews across Pennsylvania. I would like the Legislative Reapportionment Commission to create maps that adhere to the People’s Maps created by Fair Districts PA. These maps were based on the respect for racial representation, keeping communities together, creating compact maps and eliminating partisan bias. A diversity of perspectives and experiences is what enables our government - like any other decision-making body - to appropriately balance all relevant interests and arrive at democratic decisions. This is only possible when the maps enable fair representation. I live on the eastern border of PA House District 182. Much of my neighborhood, including my brother’s home 6 blocks away and several community institutions and businesses I frequent, are in a different district, while swaths of the city with fewer interests in common with my neighbors are included in our district. The same pattern is repeated in other areas. How does a patchwork of districts that potentially splits community interests and especially dilutes the perspectives of minorities benefit the Commonwealth, which should represent the interests of all its residents? Next year, as my husband and I grow our family, we are considering moving to another part of Pennsylvania. Assessing where we might have safe and enriching personal and professional lives, a key consideration is the diversity of a town or city and the degree of inclusion reflected in local institutions, including government. Seeing that the PA Senate has only 4 members of color, all in Philadelphia, concerns me because I know that the state benefits from a more diverse population than its legislature reflects. Indeed, all of Pennsylvania’s population growth in the last 10 years can be attributed to people of color. The People’s Maps incorporate Unity Maps created by communities of color mapping their own lives and communities. Over 1000 citizens, including members of RAC-PA, were involved in creating and advocating for the People’s Maps. I ask the Commission to prioritize equity and a reduction in partisan bias, and trust that the fair representation supported by so many Pennsylvanians will make an even better Pennsylvania.