We are compelled to address the urgent and pressing need for citizen-led initiatives to reclaim our democratic processes from the grips of partisan politics. We stand with the overwhelming majority of Ohioans who believe in the power of the people. It is time for politicians to step aside and allow citizens, who are best poised to represent the will of the people, to take the lead. Your voice, your power, can make a difference. We urge a YES vote on Issue 1 this November at the polls.

Historically, gerrymandering has been used as a weapon to disenfranchise communities of color, diluting our voices and diminishing our representation in government. This manipulation of voting districts has allowed politicians to choose their voters rather than voters choosing their representatives. These nefarious practices undermine the very foundation of our democracy and perpetuate systemic inequalities.

Gerrymandering ensures that partisan interests drown out the people's voices. A fair redistricting process will restore our right to representation of black voices in our state government. As Black faith leaders, we are called to protect the dignity and autonomy of our congregations. Our message is clear: we agree with the majority that citizens, not politicians, should have the power to decide our electoral boundaries.

Ohio is among the top 10 states where gerrymandering runs rampant. The system is so flawed that the Ohio Supreme Court has deemed our current voting districts unconstitutional. In fact, during the last redistricting process, when politicians were in charge of the process, the court ruled that the lines were unconstitutional seven times. Issue 1 will remove current and former politicians from having a say in our
map-creating process. Under this new plan, our redistricting commission will reflect diversity with Democrats, Republicans, and Independents working together.

This initiative is not just about redrawing lines on a map; it is about ensuring that every Ohioan, regardless of race, ethnicity, or political affiliation, has an equal and significant voice in our democracy. We can architect a system where our democratic rights are valued and respected. More than an initiative, this is a movement. One that transcends party lines, bringing together a diverse coalition in pursuit of a just and representative democracy where every vote truly matters.

I am signing my name in support of this new approach to selecting an Independent commission where citizens are responsible for drawing electoral maps. Issue 1 is a critical opportunity for Ohioans to reclaim their power and ensure that state government truly reflects the people's will. This is our chance to reclaim justice and ensure our democracy is upheld with integrity. Join us in pledging to support fair electoral maps and empower an independent commission to draw them. Let us stand together to create an Ohio where our congregations’ voices are heard and our communities thrive.

Add your name to our faith and community leader sign-on and help build a fairer, more representative Ohio.