I’m so sorry
Another blow
Louisiana is back in the national spotlight, and not for reasons I’m proud of.
Yesterday’s Supreme Court decision allows state legislatures to draw legislative maps that systematically weaken the voting power of communities of color.
According to Black Voters Matter and other experts, it also paves the way for the creation of 19 new reliably Republican house seats and has major implications for local representation.
On behalf of like-minded Louisianans everywhere, I’m so sorry for our state’s impact on the future of democracy in our country.
I’m simultaneously numb, devastated, and enraged.
It’s tempting to completely check out and rewatch Heated Rivalry for the 4th time. (A friend described it as “kindness and care porn.”)
Instead, I’m striving to balance the need to rest and grieve with steadfast action.
Here in Louisiana, we have an election on May 16. The governor is trying to move it so the state can redraw its congressional maps.
Mail-in voting has already begun, and early voting starts this Saturday, May 2.
This is BANANAS.
Down-ballot candidates (like Lauren Jewett!) are going to have a much harder time convincing voters to turn out, especially if people are confused about whether the election is happening at all.
Creating chaos is a great way to disenfranchise voters, but we won’t be fooled.
If you’re registered to vote in Louisiana, please early vote on Saturday (May 2)!
I’ll end with a note of encouragement from President Obama, who wrote on Instagram:
“The good news is that such setbacks can be overcome. But that will only happen if citizens across the country who cherish our democratic ideals continue to mobilize and vote in record numbers - not just in the upcoming midterms or in high profile races, but in every election and every level.”
Please consider this a personal love note from me (and President Obama) to you: geaux vote.
Not in Louisiana? Look up your next election via your Secretary of State’s website. It might be sooner than you think.
With love and conviction,
Lelia
PS I’m voting NO on all the amendments. Here’s a simple overview from a coalition of some of my favorite, most trusted organizations. It breaks down the goal of each amendment and explains why we should oppose it.
PPS In much happier news: you’re invited to a party!
🌺 SuperBloom Party 🌺
Tuesday, May 19, 5:30-7pm
Munch Factory in Mid-City
4141 Bienville Ave
I celebrated the win in Virginia, only to fall back into despair at this ruling. Republicans have been engaging in voter suppression for decades. It seems that’s the only way they can win. I still have high hopes for the midterm elections, but continue to worry about the cheating and the illegality of everything Republicans do. One would think that the voting process would be safe and protected at this point in our history. I can’t seem to wrap my head around it.
Just want to pop in to add extra emphasis to Lauren Jewett's campaign! She is currently running against Steve Scalise for the Louisiana's 1st congressional district spot (and I'm really hoping that is still the case after all this mess settles).
I know Lauren personally, after working with her for 6 years in the NOLA public schools system. She is an incredible person and advocate and we would all be much better off with her representing us in DC!