First Steps toward an Independent Redistricting Commission

CHANGE Illinois is spearheading the development of the Chicago Advisory Redistricting Commission, whose goal is to create a transparent ward map centered on and drawn by residents. The expectation is that the commission will be a model for upholding racial equity and citizen engagement.

It will incorporate best practices for independent redistricting gained by cities across the country that already have redistricting commissions, including Austin, TX; Columbus, OH; New York, NY; Seattle, WA; and cities from San Francisco to San Diego in California.

At a kickoff meeting for coalition participants, CHANGE Illinois outlined some initial guiding principles for the Advisory Redistricting Commission:

• Include independent thinkers who reflect the city’s geographic, racial and ethnic diversity. 

• Draw contiguous ward boundaries so residents, especially people of color, can elect candidates of their choosing who are held accountable to community interests.

• Assure a fully transparent ward mapping process and include meaningful public participation, including map submissions and a compliance report outlining how the end result met these goals.

• Maximize voter choice, electoral candidacy and competitiveness. 

CHANGE Illinois expects to announce the plan for the commission and its charter soon.