Blackdems
Vow Action After Supreme Court Redistricting Ruling
Group Declares Preservation of Voting Rights Act is Key
HOUSTON (June 28, 2006) – Despite today’s
U.S. Supreme Court decision to uphold most portions of the 2004
Tom Delay redistricting plan, BLACKDEMS, one of Houston’s
most respected democratic alliances, remains firm in its resolve
to confront partisan attempts to disenfranchise voters in Texas.
The organization is concerned that this ruling sets a harmful precedent
for future efforts to weaken the minority vote.
BLACKDEMS Chairman James Robertson, Jr. issued a response to the
Court’s conclusion: “When the redistricting plan was
passed, it was an obvious partisan power grab that robbed Texans
of equitable representation. We are disappointed but not discouraged.
The Supreme Court’s opinion does not dilute the strength of
people that desire positive change in Texas.”
BLACKDEMS will refocus its agenda in the coming months to aggressively
educate Houstonians regarding their protections under the Voting
Rights Act and the implications of voter disenfranchisement. During
the 2005-2008 political season, the organization will place particular
emphasis on increasing voter empowerment through its “Get
Out the Vote” voter registration crusade and improving access
to information and policy makers. The group will also conduct effective
grassroots campaigning to produce and support political leaders
that share the values of its citizenry.
Founded in February 2005, BLACKDEMS of Houston motivates citizens
to utilize political action to address challenges facing their communities.
The alliance is widely known for organizing a variety of community
activities to engage African Americans in community activism including
veteran’s day forums, HIV/AIDS fundraisers, and super neighborhood
political forums. The group’s membership has swiftly grown
to over 180 strong, and its news network currently reaches more
than 14,000 citizens monthly.
BLACKDEMS welcomes the involvement of the Houston community.
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