Gerrymandering Activity Worksheet for Civic Engagement

Understanding Gerrymandering: A Threat to Fair Representation

Gerrymandering is a practice that has been used for centuries to manipulate electoral district boundaries for political gain. It is a serious threat to fair representation and the democratic process. In this worksheet, we will explore the concept of gerrymandering, its effects, and ways to engage civically to prevent it.

What is Gerrymandering?

Gerrymandering is the manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor one party or class. It is named after Elbridge Gerry, a Massachusetts governor who in 1812 approved a redistricting plan that created a district that resembled a salamander. The term “gerrymandering” was coined by combining Gerry’s name with the word “salamander.”

Gerrymandering can be used to:

• Packing: Concentrate voters from the opposing party into a few districts to reduce their influence.
• Cracking: Spread voters from the opposing party across multiple districts to dilute their influence.
• Gerrymandering by omission: Exclude certain groups of people from the district boundaries to prevent them from voting.

Effects of Gerrymandering

Gerrymandering has several negative effects on the democratic process:

• Undermines fair representation: Gerrymandering can lead to a situation where the number of seats won by a party does not reflect the number of votes they received.
• Discourages voter turnout: When voters feel that their vote will not make a difference, they are less likely to participate in the electoral process.
• Favors incumbents: Gerrymandering can make it difficult for new candidates to challenge incumbents, leading to a lack of accountability and fresh perspectives.

How to Identify Gerrymandering

Here are some signs that gerrymandering may be occurring:

• Unusual district shapes: Districts that have irregular shapes or include non-contiguous areas may be signs of gerrymandering.
• Voter suppression: Gerrymandering can be used to suppress the votes of certain groups, such as minorities or low-income communities.
• Uncompetitive elections: Elections that are not competitive may be a sign that gerrymandering has occurred.

Ways to Engage Civically to Prevent Gerrymandering

Here are some ways to engage civically to prevent gerrymandering:

• Participate in the redistricting process: Attend public hearings and provide input on proposed district boundaries.
• Support independent redistricting commissions: Independent commissions can help to ensure that district boundaries are drawn fairly and without bias.
• Advocate for voting rights: Support legislation that protects voting rights and prevents voter suppression.

📝 Note: Gerrymandering is a complex issue that requires ongoing civic engagement to prevent. By staying informed and participating in the democratic process, we can help to ensure fair representation and prevent gerrymandering.

Activity 1: Identify Gerrymandering

Look at the following district maps and identify which ones may be examples of gerrymandering:

Which maps do you think may be examples of gerrymandering? Why?

Activity 2: Create a Fair District Map

Imagine you are a member of a redistricting commission tasked with drawing a fair district map. Use the following criteria to create a map:

• Compactness: Districts should be compact and not include non-contiguous areas.
• Contiguity: Districts should be contiguous and not include separate areas.
• Equal population: Districts should have roughly equal populations.

Create a district map that meets these criteria. Be creative and think about how to ensure fair representation for all voters.

Activity 3: Write a Letter to Your Representative

Write a letter to your representative expressing your concerns about gerrymandering and advocating for fair district boundaries. Be sure to include specific examples and suggestions for how to improve the redistricting process.

Dear [Representative],

I am writing to express my concern about gerrymandering in our state. As you may know, gerrymandering is the manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor one party or class. This practice undermines fair representation and the democratic process.

I believe that [specific example of gerrymandering in your state]. I urge you to support legislation that would create an independent redistricting commission to ensure fair district boundaries.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Civic Engagement is Key to Preventing Gerrymandering

Gerrymandering is a serious threat to fair representation and the democratic process. However, by staying informed and engaging civically, we can help to prevent it. Remember to participate in the redistricting process, support independent redistricting commissions, and advocate for voting rights. Together, we can ensure fair representation for all voters.