You Can Participate in Redistricting

Every 10 years, new maps for representation across the US and states are drawn that directly influence the next decade and beyond. Here are resources to help explore your state's data and participate in public input. Note - even after completion of state-level redistricting, local redistricting processes can take advantage of the same data resources and map tools highlighted here.  It's always worth fighting for public input and transparent decision-making in redistricting processes.

Having a voice in mapping for your state and community is important - and possible. People have developed some great tools to empower fellow citizens to explore the census data used in redistricting, and help capture and share your insights with the groups responsible for proposing and approving these maps. This site provides links to resources because: 

• you should have access to these tools,
• every state's procedures and decision-making processes are a bit different, and
• the time is especially short between data release and new maps this round.

The Process:

1 - New data on US populations taken in 2020 was released by the US Census Bureau to states and the public on August 12, 2021. 

2 - Map tools are used to put the population data (in census block units) on maps. You can do this directly, or look for free online mapping sites to update their data. See what your districts look like now, and what fair representation could look like.

3 - States start working right away, so find out how your particular state is managing the mapmaking, review, and approval process (commission? legislature?).

4 - Make your voice heard - link up with groups in your state or nationally to be more effective. The decision process should be transparent, and your personal stories are needed for communities to have real impact on the final decisions.