WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:02.215 align:middle line:90% [MUSIC PLAYING] 00:00:02.215 --> 00:00:03.550 align:middle line:90% 00:00:03.550 --> 00:00:05.260 align:middle line:90% --on redistricting. 00:00:05.260 --> 00:00:07.870 align:middle line:84% I am State Senator Will Brownsberger. 00:00:07.870 --> 00:00:11.170 align:middle line:84% I am the Senate co-chair of the committee. 00:00:11.170 --> 00:00:16.210 align:middle line:84% And I'm here with my House co-chair, Mike Moran. 00:00:16.210 --> 00:00:17.350 align:middle line:90% This is a virtual meeting. 00:00:17.350 --> 00:00:18.610 align:middle line:90% Everybody is virtual. 00:00:18.610 --> 00:00:22.160 align:middle line:90% We are being recorded. 00:00:22.160 --> 00:00:27.390 align:middle line:84% There are closed captions being provided. 00:00:27.390 --> 00:00:30.180 align:middle line:84% The subject of today's hearing is 00:00:30.180 --> 00:00:32.405 align:middle line:84% the seventh congressional district. 00:00:32.405 --> 00:00:34.530 align:middle line:84% And when we say the seventh congressional district, 00:00:34.530 --> 00:00:37.740 align:middle line:84% we don't only mean the boundaries of that district 00:00:37.740 --> 00:00:41.010 align:middle line:84% per se, but also the boundaries of every state 00:00:41.010 --> 00:00:43.260 align:middle line:84% legislative district that might touch 00:00:43.260 --> 00:00:50.550 align:middle line:84% or be close to that district, or included in that district. 00:00:50.550 --> 00:00:53.100 align:middle line:84% So we're looking forward to the hearing today. 00:00:53.100 --> 00:00:57.540 align:middle line:84% We're very honored to have with us our US representative, 00:00:57.540 --> 00:00:59.070 align:middle line:90% Ayanna Pressley. 00:00:59.070 --> 00:01:01.060 align:middle line:84% And in a moment, I'll recognize her. 00:01:01.060 --> 00:01:03.750 align:middle line:84% But before I do that, I want to I 00:01:03.750 --> 00:01:08.220 align:middle line:84% turn to my co-chair, Representative Mike Moran, 00:01:08.220 --> 00:01:13.260 align:middle line:90% to say a few words. 00:01:13.260 --> 00:01:15.120 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Senator. 00:01:15.120 --> 00:01:19.910 align:middle line:84% I appreciate you holding this hearing this morning. 00:01:19.910 --> 00:01:24.570 align:middle line:84% I am in the middle of kid duty, dropping off my little girls 00:01:24.570 --> 00:01:28.680 align:middle line:84% at day care, so I am virtual from the car, 00:01:28.680 --> 00:01:33.390 align:middle line:84% but I will be on this hearing shortly once I get into work. 00:01:33.390 --> 00:01:37.638 align:middle line:84% This is the eighth redistricting hearing in this process. 00:01:37.638 --> 00:01:39.180 align:middle line:84% Today, we are going to hear testimony 00:01:39.180 --> 00:01:41.280 align:middle line:84% from residents who live in the cities 00:01:41.280 --> 00:01:44.040 align:middle line:84% of the seventh congressional district and the surrounding 00:01:44.040 --> 00:01:45.480 align:middle line:90% towns. 00:01:45.480 --> 00:01:48.930 align:middle line:84% I can't help but think back to 10 years ago, 00:01:48.930 --> 00:01:52.238 align:middle line:84% when we were at-- this was then the eighth district-- 00:01:52.238 --> 00:01:54.030 align:middle line:84% we were at the Joseph Lee Elementary School 00:01:54.030 --> 00:01:59.340 align:middle line:84% in Dorchester, where 46 people provided testimony 00:01:59.340 --> 00:02:01.440 align:middle line:90% on the maps 10 years ago. 00:02:01.440 --> 00:02:03.550 align:middle line:84% Some of those very same people are still 00:02:03.550 --> 00:02:05.550 align:middle line:84% involved in this process, and are probably going 00:02:05.550 --> 00:02:08.180 align:middle line:90% to testify here again today. 00:02:08.180 --> 00:02:12.290 align:middle line:84% I remember back then, then congressman from the eighth 00:02:12.290 --> 00:02:14.330 align:middle line:84% provided the committee with a detailed roadmap, 00:02:14.330 --> 00:02:18.320 align:middle line:84% a detailed roadmap that we used and considered 00:02:18.320 --> 00:02:21.860 align:middle line:84% as we were trying to make the strongest majority minority 00:02:21.860 --> 00:02:26.280 align:middle line:84% district that this Commonwealth has ever seen. 00:02:26.280 --> 00:02:28.580 align:middle line:84% In fact, the vast majority of the testimony 00:02:28.580 --> 00:02:31.430 align:middle line:84% we heard that day were from people advocating 00:02:31.430 --> 00:02:35.420 align:middle line:84% for the strongest majority minority congressional district 00:02:35.420 --> 00:02:37.310 align:middle line:90% that we could draw. 00:02:37.310 --> 00:02:39.620 align:middle line:84% We listened, and the legislature created 00:02:39.620 --> 00:02:42.230 align:middle line:90% the new seventh district. 00:02:42.230 --> 00:02:46.910 align:middle line:84% That is why these hearings are so vital to the redistricting 00:02:46.910 --> 00:02:48.410 align:middle line:90% process. 00:02:48.410 --> 00:02:53.010 align:middle line:84% We need to have your input to create fair districts. 00:02:53.010 --> 00:02:56.040 align:middle line:84% When the districts are drawn, we want you to see your fingertips 00:02:56.040 --> 00:02:57.420 align:middle line:90% on these maps. 00:02:57.420 --> 00:03:00.840 align:middle line:84% We want to give people, and especially minority 00:03:00.840 --> 00:03:03.570 align:middle line:84% communities, the ability to elect their candidate 00:03:03.570 --> 00:03:05.800 align:middle line:90% of their choice. 00:03:05.800 --> 00:03:09.360 align:middle line:84% This is a historic district that once was represented 00:03:09.360 --> 00:03:11.730 align:middle line:84% by a future president of the United States, 00:03:11.730 --> 00:03:15.300 align:middle line:84% future Speaker of the House, and now, currently, 00:03:15.300 --> 00:03:18.030 align:middle line:84% the very first ever African-American woman 00:03:18.030 --> 00:03:21.760 align:middle line:84% representing Massachusetts in the United States Congress. 00:03:21.760 --> 00:03:25.050 align:middle line:84% I'm thrilled to hear what my colleagues and advocates have 00:03:25.050 --> 00:03:28.440 align:middle line:84% to say about this redistricting cycle, 00:03:28.440 --> 00:03:30.690 align:middle line:84% and I want to thank the congressman-- 00:03:30.690 --> 00:03:33.580 align:middle line:84% the congress-lady from Dorchester for joining us. 00:03:33.580 --> 00:03:35.550 align:middle line:90% It's an honor to have you. 00:03:35.550 --> 00:03:37.710 align:middle line:84% You do a fine job in being a member 00:03:37.710 --> 00:03:39.540 align:middle line:90% of your congressional district. 00:03:39.540 --> 00:03:42.060 align:middle line:84% I appreciate the hard work that you do. 00:03:42.060 --> 00:03:46.590 align:middle line:84% When I get back on, Senator Brownsberger, 00:03:46.590 --> 00:03:49.110 align:middle line:84% I will announce my colleagues that are also here 00:03:49.110 --> 00:03:50.010 align:middle line:90% at this hearing. 00:03:50.010 --> 00:03:53.090 align:middle line:84% But at this point in time, I will turn it back over to you. 00:03:53.090 --> 00:03:55.660 align:middle line:90% OK. 00:03:55.660 --> 00:04:00.970 align:middle line:84% And I want to recognize my co-chair, my vice 00:04:00.970 --> 00:04:02.470 align:middle line:90% chair, Senator Anne Gobi. 00:04:02.470 --> 00:04:06.070 align:middle line:84% Thank you for being with us, Anne. 00:04:06.070 --> 00:04:11.340 align:middle line:84% So without further ado, let's turn to the testimony. 00:04:11.340 --> 00:04:16.380 align:middle line:84% Coming first, our honored representative in Congress, 00:04:16.380 --> 00:04:17.729 align:middle line:90% Representative Ayanna Pressley. 00:04:17.729 --> 00:04:20.500 align:middle line:90% 00:04:20.500 --> 00:04:23.550 align:middle line:90% Thank you for being with us. 00:04:23.550 --> 00:04:24.270 align:middle line:90% Of course. 00:04:24.270 --> 00:04:25.360 align:middle line:90% Thank you, everyone. 00:04:25.360 --> 00:04:27.540 align:middle line:84% Thank you chairs Moran and Brownsberger 00:04:27.540 --> 00:04:30.400 align:middle line:84% for hosting this virtual hearing this morning. 00:04:30.400 --> 00:04:33.960 align:middle line:84% It is the greatest honor of my life, 00:04:33.960 --> 00:04:40.590 align:middle line:84% outside of being Cora's mom, to join you at this hearing 00:04:40.590 --> 00:04:43.890 align:middle line:84% today in the role as congresswoman representing 00:04:43.890 --> 00:04:46.500 align:middle line:84% the Massachusetts seventh congressional district, which 00:04:46.500 --> 00:04:51.750 align:middle line:84% includes Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, Chelsea, Everett, 00:04:51.750 --> 00:04:53.970 align:middle line:90% Randolph, and Milton. 00:04:53.970 --> 00:04:55.650 align:middle line:84% Again, it's been the honor of my life 00:04:55.650 --> 00:04:57.480 align:middle line:84% to serve the residents of the seventh 00:04:57.480 --> 00:04:59.400 align:middle line:84% as their representative in Congress, 00:04:59.400 --> 00:05:01.710 align:middle line:84% and I want to thank everyone who calls this district 00:05:01.710 --> 00:05:05.280 align:middle line:84% home for their trust and for their partnership. 00:05:05.280 --> 00:05:07.710 align:middle line:84% I also want to thank the committee and all the advocates 00:05:07.710 --> 00:05:11.550 align:middle line:84% who worked together to draw this district a decade ago 00:05:11.550 --> 00:05:15.360 align:middle line:84% with racial equity and the power of representative, responsive 00:05:15.360 --> 00:05:17.520 align:middle line:90% government in mind. 00:05:17.520 --> 00:05:20.280 align:middle line:84% The Massachusetts seventh is not a monolith. 00:05:20.280 --> 00:05:22.740 align:middle line:84% Our district is a testament to the daily contributions 00:05:22.740 --> 00:05:26.400 align:middle line:84% and brilliance of families from every walk of life. 00:05:26.400 --> 00:05:30.510 align:middle line:84% Our shared story is the story of the electrician in Chelsea, 00:05:30.510 --> 00:05:34.200 align:middle line:84% the single dad in Cambridge, the artist in Eastie, 00:05:34.200 --> 00:05:37.980 align:middle line:84% the matriarch with eight great grandchildren in Milton, 00:05:37.980 --> 00:05:42.000 align:middle line:84% the student activist in Everett, and the entrepreneur 00:05:42.000 --> 00:05:43.650 align:middle line:90% in Roxbury. 00:05:43.650 --> 00:05:46.170 align:middle line:84% Our district has weathered an incredibly challenging 00:05:46.170 --> 00:05:50.700 align:middle line:84% few years, and was deeply impacted, disparately so, 00:05:50.700 --> 00:05:52.560 align:middle line:90% by the pandemic. 00:05:52.560 --> 00:05:54.990 align:middle line:84% The strength of community has been on full display, 00:05:54.990 --> 00:05:58.140 align:middle line:84% and the demands to rebuild a more just and equitable seventh 00:05:58.140 --> 00:06:01.200 align:middle line:84% and Commonwealth couldn't be clearer. 00:06:01.200 --> 00:06:06.150 align:middle line:84% I assume this task clear-eyed, motivated, and humbled 00:06:06.150 --> 00:06:08.810 align:middle line:90% by the power of the people. 00:06:08.810 --> 00:06:11.270 align:middle line:84% Now, I understand the committee has difficult decisions 00:06:11.270 --> 00:06:12.800 align:middle line:84% to make about new boundaries that 00:06:12.800 --> 00:06:16.040 align:middle line:84% will shape our representative democracy in the Commonwealth 00:06:16.040 --> 00:06:20.150 align:middle line:84% for the next 10 years, but I am confident that, 00:06:20.150 --> 00:06:22.430 align:middle line:84% using the same principles top of mind 00:06:22.430 --> 00:06:24.980 align:middle line:84% when these boundaries were drawn 10 years ago, 00:06:24.980 --> 00:06:27.590 align:middle line:84% centering the racial and economic diversity 00:06:27.590 --> 00:06:30.950 align:middle line:84% of the Massachusetts seventh as its strength, 00:06:30.950 --> 00:06:35.330 align:middle line:84% and keeping municipalities whole when possible, will guide 00:06:35.330 --> 00:06:38.270 align:middle line:84% these difficult conversations and even more 00:06:38.270 --> 00:06:40.710 align:middle line:90% difficult decisions. 00:06:40.710 --> 00:06:42.530 align:middle line:84% So if you will indulge me, I want 00:06:42.530 --> 00:06:44.450 align:middle line:84% to just speak to a few examples of how 00:06:44.450 --> 00:06:46.820 align:middle line:84% the current boundaries of the Massachusetts seventh 00:06:46.820 --> 00:06:48.800 align:middle line:84% have influenced what my team and I have worked 00:06:48.800 --> 00:06:51.470 align:middle line:84% on in our first three years in Congress, 00:06:51.470 --> 00:06:55.040 align:middle line:84% and why that matters for the new congressional maps. 00:06:55.040 --> 00:06:57.890 align:middle line:84% As I've said before, the Massachusetts seventh 00:06:57.890 --> 00:07:01.790 align:middle line:84% congressional district is incredibly diverse and vibrant. 00:07:01.790 --> 00:07:05.570 align:middle line:84% It is also one of the most unequal congressional districts 00:07:05.570 --> 00:07:07.210 align:middle line:90% in the country. 00:07:07.210 --> 00:07:10.040 align:middle line:84% The COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating for every 00:07:10.040 --> 00:07:13.100 align:middle line:84% community, but by almost every metric, 00:07:13.100 --> 00:07:16.940 align:middle line:84% the hardest hit communities per capita in the Commonwealth are 00:07:16.940 --> 00:07:19.730 align:middle line:84% concentrated in the Massachusetts seventh-- 00:07:19.730 --> 00:07:23.320 align:middle line:90% Chelsea, Everett, and Randolph. 00:07:23.320 --> 00:07:28.240 align:middle line:84% This is not random, it's not a coincidence, 00:07:28.240 --> 00:07:31.160 align:middle line:84% and it certainly is not surprising. 00:07:31.160 --> 00:07:34.780 align:middle line:84% It is the direct result of disinvestment 00:07:34.780 --> 00:07:39.710 align:middle line:84% and generations-old failed policy decisions. 00:07:39.710 --> 00:07:41.680 align:middle line:84% But if those policy choices created 00:07:41.680 --> 00:07:43.540 align:middle line:84% this disproportionate burden on communities 00:07:43.540 --> 00:07:45.820 align:middle line:84% of color and low-income people, then we 00:07:45.820 --> 00:07:47.830 align:middle line:84% need to be just as intentional in 00:07:47.830 --> 00:07:52.570 align:middle line:84% the pro-active equity-centered policies which we advance. 00:07:52.570 --> 00:07:56.230 align:middle line:84% And that is the incredible strength of this district. 00:07:56.230 --> 00:07:58.495 align:middle line:84% Over the last four years, my team and I 00:07:58.495 --> 00:08:00.310 align:middle line:84% have traveled throughout the district, 00:08:00.310 --> 00:08:02.860 align:middle line:84% cultivating relationships with municipal and community 00:08:02.860 --> 00:08:05.500 align:middle line:84% leaders, hearing their shared challenges, 00:08:05.500 --> 00:08:07.540 align:middle line:90% and their victories, too. 00:08:07.540 --> 00:08:10.870 align:middle line:84% And as we anticipated, COVID-19 challenges 00:08:10.870 --> 00:08:15.940 align:middle line:84% were not the only issues that transcend municipal borders. 00:08:15.940 --> 00:08:19.600 align:middle line:84% Environmental justice, transportation access, 00:08:19.600 --> 00:08:23.290 align:middle line:84% wealth creation and retention affordable housing, 00:08:23.290 --> 00:08:25.780 align:middle line:90% educational opportunities-- 00:08:25.780 --> 00:08:28.540 align:middle line:84% I won't enumerate every issue, but I 00:08:28.540 --> 00:08:30.550 align:middle line:84% do want to put a finer point on the shared 00:08:30.550 --> 00:08:34.090 align:middle line:84% environmental challenges across the district, 00:08:34.090 --> 00:08:36.070 align:middle line:84% and why it is critical to keep as much 00:08:36.070 --> 00:08:39.250 align:middle line:84% of the seventh together as possible. 00:08:39.250 --> 00:08:40.870 align:middle line:84% Over the last three years, I've heard 00:08:40.870 --> 00:08:42.940 align:middle line:84% the impact of environmental hazards 00:08:42.940 --> 00:08:45.580 align:middle line:84% on every community in the seventh. 00:08:45.580 --> 00:08:48.250 align:middle line:84% In Somerville, I'm partnering with elected and community 00:08:48.250 --> 00:08:51.760 align:middle line:84% leaders to mitigate the impact of McGrath Highway 00:08:51.760 --> 00:08:53.890 align:middle line:90% on the surrounding communities. 00:08:53.890 --> 00:08:55.990 align:middle line:84% That highway continues to pose a threat 00:08:55.990 --> 00:08:59.080 align:middle line:84% to the well-being of cyclists and pedestrians every day. 00:08:59.080 --> 00:09:03.400 align:middle line:84% But just like Chinatown, Chelsea, Dorchester, 00:09:03.400 --> 00:09:05.560 align:middle line:84% and countless community saddled by gaps 00:09:05.560 --> 00:09:07.450 align:middle line:84% in critical regional infrastructure, 00:09:07.450 --> 00:09:10.780 align:middle line:84% they also struggle with the fine particulate pollution 00:09:10.780 --> 00:09:12.910 align:middle line:90% that the highway poses. 00:09:12.910 --> 00:09:15.400 align:middle line:84% And that lived experience matches the heat 00:09:15.400 --> 00:09:18.610 align:middle line:84% map of asthma rates across our Commonwealth 00:09:18.610 --> 00:09:22.180 align:middle line:84% that light up bright red around the entire Massachusetts 00:09:22.180 --> 00:09:23.440 align:middle line:90% seventh. 00:09:23.440 --> 00:09:26.030 align:middle line:84% The fight for air quality monitors in Chelsea, 00:09:26.030 --> 00:09:27.910 align:middle line:84% which we were successful in securing 00:09:27.910 --> 00:09:30.220 align:middle line:84% with a partnership from Senator Markey's office, 00:09:30.220 --> 00:09:33.250 align:middle line:84% are critical to the regional public health 00:09:33.250 --> 00:09:37.930 align:middle line:84% of Chelsea, East Boston, Everett, and Somerville. 00:09:37.930 --> 00:09:40.990 align:middle line:90% Our destinies are truly tied. 00:09:40.990 --> 00:09:44.320 align:middle line:84% And that sentiment bears out throughout the Massachusetts 00:09:44.320 --> 00:09:45.367 align:middle line:90% seventh. 00:09:45.367 --> 00:09:47.950 align:middle line:84% I'm proud to be a member of the Community Health Center Caucus 00:09:47.950 --> 00:09:51.730 align:middle line:84% in Congress because I believe in their transformative power. 00:09:51.730 --> 00:09:53.500 align:middle line:84% The Massachusetts seventh is home 00:09:53.500 --> 00:09:55.750 align:middle line:84% to one of the highest concentrations of community 00:09:55.750 --> 00:09:58.150 align:middle line:90% health centers in the nation. 00:09:58.150 --> 00:10:02.650 align:middle line:84% I proudly boast 15 which call the seventh their home. 00:10:02.650 --> 00:10:04.310 align:middle line:84% And one in three of my constituents 00:10:04.310 --> 00:10:08.020 align:middle line:84% receive their care from one of these health centers. 00:10:08.020 --> 00:10:13.090 align:middle line:84% I'm humbled to serve this district alongside these CHCs, 00:10:13.090 --> 00:10:16.750 align:middle line:84% and it has forced me to learn the intricate challenges 00:10:16.750 --> 00:10:19.930 align:middle line:84% the CHCs face, and the immense benefit 00:10:19.930 --> 00:10:22.400 align:middle line:90% they bring to communities. 00:10:22.400 --> 00:10:23.860 align:middle line:84% This is as much about our ability 00:10:23.860 --> 00:10:26.590 align:middle line:84% to resource community health centers in a crisis 00:10:26.590 --> 00:10:30.310 align:middle line:84% as it is about our ability to advance access and health care 00:10:30.310 --> 00:10:32.530 align:middle line:84% justice through sustained funding 00:10:32.530 --> 00:10:37.610 align:middle line:84% for convenient, on-demand, culturally responsive care. 00:10:37.610 --> 00:10:39.730 align:middle line:84% It is critical that the district continue 00:10:39.730 --> 00:10:42.730 align:middle line:84% to represent these institutions and carry 00:10:42.730 --> 00:10:46.420 align:middle line:84% their concerns in the halls of Congress every day. 00:10:46.420 --> 00:10:50.260 align:middle line:84% I cannot imagine doing this work without the partnership 00:10:50.260 --> 00:10:52.120 align:middle line:84% and leadership of the constituents 00:10:52.120 --> 00:10:55.120 align:middle line:84% of the Massachusetts seventh, what they've shown since I 00:10:55.120 --> 00:10:56.950 align:middle line:90% joined this delegation. 00:10:56.950 --> 00:10:59.350 align:middle line:84% I'm grateful to call this district home, 00:10:59.350 --> 00:11:01.570 align:middle line:84% and look forward to continuing the important work 00:11:01.570 --> 00:11:04.720 align:middle line:84% of eradicating cycles of poverty across this nation, 00:11:04.720 --> 00:11:09.010 align:middle line:84% and particularly here in these seven municipalities. 00:11:09.010 --> 00:11:12.520 align:middle line:84% If my testimony today makes your difficult job even harder, 00:11:12.520 --> 00:11:14.920 align:middle line:90% respectfully, I'm glad. 00:11:14.920 --> 00:11:17.620 align:middle line:84% I respect the enormous task that you were taking on, 00:11:17.620 --> 00:11:22.060 align:middle line:84% and today, as in every setting, my first priority 00:11:22.060 --> 00:11:26.560 align:middle line:84% is to advocate for every single person that I represent. 00:11:26.560 --> 00:11:29.410 align:middle line:84% I know that every constituent, every municipality 00:11:29.410 --> 00:11:32.410 align:middle line:84% in this district has made me a more effective advocate 00:11:32.410 --> 00:11:35.080 align:middle line:84% in Congress, and I would hate to lose the privilege 00:11:35.080 --> 00:11:37.300 align:middle line:90% of representing any of them. 00:11:37.300 --> 00:11:40.540 align:middle line:84% My goal is that the constituents that I proudly serve 00:11:40.540 --> 00:11:43.420 align:middle line:84% and every family that calls the Commonwealth home 00:11:43.420 --> 00:11:47.530 align:middle line:84% feels heard and seen by their government, that our map is 00:11:47.530 --> 00:11:50.110 align:middle line:84% drawn with the goal of responsive and accountable 00:11:50.110 --> 00:11:52.450 align:middle line:84% government in mind, and that we do everything 00:11:52.450 --> 00:11:57.040 align:middle line:84% in our power to increase and not to dilute 00:11:57.040 --> 00:11:59.840 align:middle line:90% the power of the people. 00:11:59.840 --> 00:12:01.880 align:middle line:84% I'm grateful for your partnership and leadership 00:12:01.880 --> 00:12:04.637 align:middle line:84% as we chart the path forward for the Commonwealth, 00:12:04.637 --> 00:12:06.470 align:middle line:84% and I'm looking forward to public testimony. 00:12:06.470 --> 00:12:09.680 align:middle line:84% And as always, I stand ready, as does my team, 00:12:09.680 --> 00:12:12.320 align:middle line:84% to help the committee in any way that I can. 00:12:12.320 --> 00:12:15.620 align:middle line:84% Thank you for the opportunity, Chair Moran and Brownsberger, 00:12:15.620 --> 00:12:17.600 align:middle line:90% and I yield back. 00:12:17.600 --> 00:12:19.260 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:12:19.260 --> 00:12:23.940 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much, Madam Congress Representative. 00:12:23.940 --> 00:12:27.030 align:middle line:84% May I offer to the members of the committee 00:12:27.030 --> 00:12:30.840 align:middle line:84% the opportunity to ask any questions 00:12:30.840 --> 00:12:35.820 align:middle line:84% or offer your thoughts on your testimony? 00:12:35.820 --> 00:12:38.010 align:middle line:84% I hereby do offer that opportunity 00:12:38.010 --> 00:12:39.406 align:middle line:90% to the members of the committee. 00:12:39.406 --> 00:12:45.370 align:middle line:90% 00:12:45.370 --> 00:12:47.558 align:middle line:84% We appreciate your testimony greatly. 00:12:47.558 --> 00:12:50.100 align:middle line:84% We look forward to continuing to work with you in partnership 00:12:50.100 --> 00:12:53.430 align:middle line:84% on so many dimensions, and we thank you for being with us 00:12:53.430 --> 00:12:55.460 align:middle line:90% today. 00:12:55.460 --> 00:12:55.960 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:12:55.960 --> 00:12:57.970 align:middle line:90% Thank you so much. 00:12:57.970 --> 00:12:59.251 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Congresswoman. 00:12:59.251 --> 00:13:02.340 align:middle line:90% 00:13:02.340 --> 00:13:05.520 align:middle line:84% I have Kevin Peterson who's asked 00:13:05.520 --> 00:13:07.280 align:middle line:90% to be recognized following you. 00:13:07.280 --> 00:13:10.090 align:middle line:90% 00:13:10.090 --> 00:13:16.710 align:middle line:90% Kevin is-- let me-- 00:13:16.710 --> 00:13:29.200 align:middle line:90% 00:13:29.200 --> 00:13:30.490 align:middle line:90% I'm here. 00:13:30.490 --> 00:13:31.140 align:middle line:90% Are you on? 00:13:31.140 --> 00:13:32.560 align:middle line:90% OK, good. 00:13:32.560 --> 00:13:34.610 align:middle line:90% All right, the floor is yours. 00:13:34.610 --> 00:13:36.290 align:middle line:90% Thank you for being with us. 00:13:36.290 --> 00:13:36.970 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:13:36.970 --> 00:13:44.140 align:middle line:84% Committee chairs, Representative Moran and Senator Brownsberger, 00:13:44.140 --> 00:13:45.790 align:middle line:84% joint committee members, especially 00:13:45.790 --> 00:13:50.750 align:middle line:84% Chairwoman Chynah Tyler of the Mass Black 00:13:50.750 --> 00:13:54.240 align:middle line:84% and Latino Legislative Caucus, again, good morning. 00:13:54.240 --> 00:13:58.710 align:middle line:84% My name is Kevin Peterson of the New Democracy Coalition. 00:13:58.710 --> 00:14:01.650 align:middle line:84% I'm appreciative of the opportunity to once again 00:14:01.650 --> 00:14:07.550 align:middle line:84% address this august body, which wields so much power with 00:14:07.550 --> 00:14:11.000 align:middle line:84% regard to the future of representation and voting 00:14:11.000 --> 00:14:12.050 align:middle line:90% in the Commonwealth. 00:14:12.050 --> 00:14:16.470 align:middle line:84% In some discreet and poignantly salient ways, 00:14:16.470 --> 00:14:18.360 align:middle line:84% these hearings hold the promise of 00:14:18.360 --> 00:14:20.790 align:middle line:90% our collective civic destiny. 00:14:20.790 --> 00:14:24.600 align:middle line:84% These hearings are critical to the extent to which we value 00:14:24.600 --> 00:14:27.780 align:middle line:84% democracy as a commonly shared enterprise, 00:14:27.780 --> 00:14:31.360 align:middle line:84% and give hope and scope to what we convey 00:14:31.360 --> 00:14:35.980 align:middle line:84% by creating public electoral frameworks that promote 00:14:35.980 --> 00:14:38.260 align:middle line:84% human flourishing, notwithstanding creed 00:14:38.260 --> 00:14:42.020 align:middle line:84% or income, color, or political perspective. 00:14:42.020 --> 00:14:45.640 align:middle line:84% Indeed, these hearings compel us towards effectively 00:14:45.640 --> 00:14:49.750 align:middle line:84% tinkering with democracy for the common weal 00:14:49.750 --> 00:14:51.460 align:middle line:90% in the Commonwealth. 00:14:51.460 --> 00:14:54.940 align:middle line:84% They propel us towards a political imaginary, wherein 00:14:54.940 --> 00:14:57.800 align:middle line:84% we earnestly and objectively outline 00:14:57.800 --> 00:15:00.770 align:middle line:84% purposeful and positive social and civic schema 00:15:00.770 --> 00:15:03.330 align:middle line:84% on each other's behalf for a better future. 00:15:03.330 --> 00:15:06.410 align:middle line:84% Thank you, members of the committee, for your service. 00:15:06.410 --> 00:15:10.370 align:middle line:84% I will not offer an extensive testimony here. 00:15:10.370 --> 00:15:14.330 align:middle line:84% There is much to be said in future public testimony, 00:15:14.330 --> 00:15:18.050 align:middle line:84% especially as it relates to ascertaining a redistricting 00:15:18.050 --> 00:15:21.350 align:middle line:84% policy outcome that achieves creating State Senate 00:15:21.350 --> 00:15:24.860 align:middle line:84% districts that would accommodate the election of a Black 00:15:24.860 --> 00:15:28.870 align:middle line:84% to the body once again, the Senate body. 00:15:28.870 --> 00:15:33.790 align:middle line:84% Parenthetically, it is somewhat disappointing 00:15:33.790 --> 00:15:36.430 align:middle line:84% to note that our request to the House and Senate 00:15:36.430 --> 00:15:38.440 align:middle line:84% members of the Joint Committee to host 00:15:38.440 --> 00:15:41.740 align:middle line:84% an official redistricting hearing regarding the Senate 00:15:41.740 --> 00:15:43.570 align:middle line:90% was not granted. 00:15:43.570 --> 00:15:45.340 align:middle line:84% My understanding is that the course 00:15:45.340 --> 00:15:48.010 align:middle line:84% in the timeline of the Joint Committee 00:15:48.010 --> 00:15:49.210 align:middle line:90% makes this prohibitive. 00:15:49.210 --> 00:15:53.470 align:middle line:84% Nevertheless, members of the Black community in Boston, 00:15:53.470 --> 00:15:58.270 align:middle line:84% including such luminaries as former State Senator Bill 00:15:58.270 --> 00:16:03.160 align:middle line:84% Owens, Dorothea Jones, and retired judge Leslie Harris, 00:16:03.160 --> 00:16:07.210 align:middle line:84% among others, have agreed to host its own community hearing 00:16:07.210 --> 00:16:10.300 align:middle line:84% on redistricting on August 14th, 2021 00:16:10.300 --> 00:16:14.500 align:middle line:84% at 10:00 AM at Malcolm X Park in Roxbury, 00:16:14.500 --> 00:16:18.100 align:middle line:84% the home of the Rep Chynah Tyler, 00:16:18.100 --> 00:16:20.380 align:middle line:90% who sits on the committee. 00:16:20.380 --> 00:16:23.650 align:middle line:84% We are honored that Rep Tyler would be present. 00:16:23.650 --> 00:16:27.790 align:middle line:84% We are blessed by her leadership and service. 00:16:27.790 --> 00:16:30.500 align:middle line:84% We will, members of the committee, forward 00:16:30.500 --> 00:16:35.810 align:middle line:84% testimony from this community event to you, to the committee. 00:16:35.810 --> 00:16:37.810 align:middle line:84% However, we hope that members of the committee 00:16:37.810 --> 00:16:40.600 align:middle line:84% will attend this community event. 00:16:40.600 --> 00:16:44.440 align:middle line:84% For the purposes of this meeting, this hearing, 00:16:44.440 --> 00:16:49.000 align:middle line:84% I hope you will listen to me and the perspective regarding 00:16:49.000 --> 00:16:51.850 align:middle line:84% the issue of redistricting as it relates 00:16:51.850 --> 00:16:58.090 align:middle line:84% to community of interest theory or sentiment or case law. 00:16:58.090 --> 00:17:01.690 align:middle line:84% Of course, I need not lecture members of this committee 00:17:01.690 --> 00:17:03.760 align:middle line:84% about community of interest matters, 00:17:03.760 --> 00:17:08.800 align:middle line:84% in terms of the propositions that guide these redistricting 00:17:08.800 --> 00:17:10.780 align:middle line:90% proceedings in Massachusetts. 00:17:10.780 --> 00:17:16.119 align:middle line:84% Neither am I so arrogant to educate you 00:17:16.119 --> 00:17:20.290 align:middle line:84% in case law connected to redistricting, locally 00:17:20.290 --> 00:17:21.849 align:middle line:90% or nationally. 00:17:21.849 --> 00:17:25.480 align:middle line:84% Members of this committee are learned in this matter, 00:17:25.480 --> 00:17:26.109 align:middle line:90% I'm sure. 00:17:26.109 --> 00:17:29.200 align:middle line:84% Yet, allow me a few words as a layperson 00:17:29.200 --> 00:17:31.060 align:middle line:84% who simply seeks to establish a view 00:17:31.060 --> 00:17:36.340 align:middle line:84% on this issue for the record, as it were, from the perspective 00:17:36.340 --> 00:17:39.260 align:middle line:90% of an amateur myself. 00:17:39.260 --> 00:17:41.530 align:middle line:84% I'd like to say that the community of interest 00:17:41.530 --> 00:17:44.860 align:middle line:84% theme connected to redistricting is 00:17:44.860 --> 00:17:48.700 align:middle line:84% most critical to approximating justice in terms 00:17:48.700 --> 00:17:50.050 align:middle line:90% of drawing district lines. 00:17:50.050 --> 00:17:53.950 align:middle line:84% These themes, I believe, animate the process. 00:17:53.950 --> 00:17:57.010 align:middle line:84% Indeed, they give essential guidance. 00:17:57.010 --> 00:18:01.870 align:middle line:84% They point towards restributive justice and racial reckoning. 00:18:01.870 --> 00:18:03.370 align:middle line:84% Members of the Joint Committee, I 00:18:03.370 --> 00:18:05.710 align:middle line:90% offer only this crude analogy. 00:18:05.710 --> 00:18:10.000 align:middle line:84% If redistricting is the DNA of our democracy, 00:18:10.000 --> 00:18:13.210 align:middle line:84% community of interest theory or sentiment or case law 00:18:13.210 --> 00:18:16.330 align:middle line:84% is that which binds it, and what gives it 00:18:16.330 --> 00:18:20.860 align:middle line:84% a kind of legal and sagacious coherence. 00:18:20.860 --> 00:18:25.510 align:middle line:84% Community of interest theory is an operating supposition 00:18:25.510 --> 00:18:28.060 align:middle line:84% insinuated in the very act of redistricting 00:18:28.060 --> 00:18:33.040 align:middle line:84% that legislators such as you undertake. 00:18:33.040 --> 00:18:38.560 align:middle line:84% It is the compass of legislators such as yourself 00:18:38.560 --> 00:18:40.370 align:middle line:84% during the redistricting process. 00:18:40.370 --> 00:18:45.310 align:middle line:84% It is a wisdom artifice, so to speak, your North Star. 00:18:45.310 --> 00:18:49.930 align:middle line:84% And as such, it should mightily guide the process 00:18:49.930 --> 00:18:52.750 align:middle line:84% that you have undertaken as a committee. 00:18:52.750 --> 00:18:54.940 align:middle line:84% For the record, I would like to briefly give 00:18:54.940 --> 00:18:58.690 align:middle line:84% sample, or sample opinion about community of interest theory, 00:18:58.690 --> 00:19:03.880 align:middle line:84% and conjecture from across the nation for the purposes 00:19:03.880 --> 00:19:06.250 align:middle line:84% that it might inform our process. 00:19:06.250 --> 00:19:09.100 align:middle line:84% The South Carolina legislature said, 00:19:09.100 --> 00:19:12.910 align:middle line:84% where practical, legislative and congressional districts 00:19:12.910 --> 00:19:17.190 align:middle line:84% should attempt to preserve communities of interests. 00:19:17.190 --> 00:19:20.370 align:middle line:84% The Montana Commission on Redistricting has proferred, 00:19:20.370 --> 00:19:23.820 align:middle line:84% the commission will consider keeping communities of interest 00:19:23.820 --> 00:19:25.170 align:middle line:90% intact. 00:19:25.170 --> 00:19:27.030 align:middle line:84% Communities of interest can be based 00:19:27.030 --> 00:19:31.110 align:middle line:84% on trade areas, geographic location, communication 00:19:31.110 --> 00:19:34.350 align:middle line:84% and transportation networks, media markets, 00:19:34.350 --> 00:19:38.280 align:middle line:84% Indian reservations, urban and rural interests, social, 00:19:38.280 --> 00:19:40.380 align:middle line:84% cultural, and economic interests, 00:19:40.380 --> 00:19:43.380 align:middle line:90% or occupations and lifestyle. 00:19:43.380 --> 00:19:46.890 align:middle line:84% A Wisconsin redistricting statute states the following-- 00:19:46.890 --> 00:19:49.290 align:middle line:84% the districts reflect a good-faith effort 00:19:49.290 --> 00:19:53.882 align:middle line:84% to apportion the legislature, giving due consideration 00:19:53.882 --> 00:19:56.340 align:middle line:84% to the need for the maintenance of communities of interest. 00:19:56.340 --> 00:20:00.900 align:middle line:84% A Virginia redistricting advisory states, districts 00:20:00.900 --> 00:20:03.750 align:middle line:84% shall be based on legislative consideration 00:20:03.750 --> 00:20:07.740 align:middle line:84% of various factors that can create or contribute to them 00:20:07.740 --> 00:20:09.510 align:middle line:90% or communities of interest. 00:20:09.510 --> 00:20:13.960 align:middle line:84% These factors may include, among others, economic factors, 00:20:13.960 --> 00:20:17.550 align:middle line:84% social factors, cultural factors, geographic features, 00:20:17.550 --> 00:20:21.480 align:middle line:84% governmental jurisdictions and service delivery areas, 00:20:21.480 --> 00:20:23.460 align:middle line:84% political beliefs, voting trends, 00:20:23.460 --> 00:20:25.980 align:middle line:90% and incumbency considerations. 00:20:25.980 --> 00:20:29.100 align:middle line:84% Local government jurisdictions and precincts [? line ?] 00:20:29.100 --> 00:20:33.210 align:middle line:84% may reflect communities of interest to be balanced. 00:20:33.210 --> 00:20:36.372 align:middle line:84% A North Carolina court has articulated 00:20:36.372 --> 00:20:37.830 align:middle line:84% that communities of interest should 00:20:37.830 --> 00:20:42.930 align:middle line:84% be considered in the formation of compact and contiguous 00:20:42.930 --> 00:20:44.970 align:middle line:90% electoral districts. 00:20:44.970 --> 00:20:48.330 align:middle line:84% Members of the Joint Committee, I'm not a lawyer. 00:20:48.330 --> 00:20:49.260 align:middle line:90% I'm a minister. 00:20:49.260 --> 00:20:50.310 align:middle line:90% I'm not a legislator. 00:20:50.310 --> 00:20:54.980 align:middle line:84% I'm a human rights and civic activist. 00:20:54.980 --> 00:20:58.430 align:middle line:84% I am not, as you are, versed in the niceties 00:20:58.430 --> 00:21:01.250 align:middle line:84% and complexities of the law with regard to redistricting. 00:21:01.250 --> 00:21:04.430 align:middle line:84% Yet, I sense that the articulations issued 00:21:04.430 --> 00:21:08.600 align:middle line:84% from the various states mentioned above, states 00:21:08.600 --> 00:21:11.510 align:middle line:84% and institutions, represent common sense 00:21:11.510 --> 00:21:14.330 align:middle line:84% with regard to protecting the vitality and capacity 00:21:14.330 --> 00:21:18.530 align:middle line:84% of communities of interest during this redistricting 00:21:18.530 --> 00:21:19.070 align:middle line:90% process. 00:21:19.070 --> 00:21:22.400 align:middle line:84% They reflect wisdom with regard to assuring 00:21:22.400 --> 00:21:24.410 align:middle line:84% that so-called racial minorities are 00:21:24.410 --> 00:21:27.830 align:middle line:84% accorded proper representation and power. 00:21:27.830 --> 00:21:29.850 align:middle line:84% They justify the drawing of districts, 00:21:29.850 --> 00:21:32.300 align:middle line:84% especially on the Senate level, that 00:21:32.300 --> 00:21:35.060 align:middle line:84% ensure that socioeconomic, cultural, and political 00:21:35.060 --> 00:21:40.460 align:middle line:84% interests are neither cracked nor diluted. 00:21:40.460 --> 00:21:42.350 align:middle line:84% As I conclude, it would be a mistake, 00:21:42.350 --> 00:21:46.520 align:middle line:84% in fact, if I did not mention the 1986 Supreme Court decision 00:21:46.520 --> 00:21:49.700 align:middle line:84% Thornburg versus Gingles, which held 00:21:49.700 --> 00:21:53.120 align:middle line:84% that it was permissible to draw district lines where there are, 00:21:53.120 --> 00:21:57.460 align:middle line:84% one, residents in a particular district 00:21:57.460 --> 00:21:59.780 align:middle line:84% are a sufficiently numerous and compact 00:21:59.780 --> 00:22:03.950 align:middle line:84% to form a majority in a single member district, 00:22:03.950 --> 00:22:07.370 align:middle line:84% and where, two, the minority group 00:22:07.370 --> 00:22:11.390 align:middle line:84% is politically cohesive, meaning that its members tend 00:22:11.390 --> 00:22:15.720 align:middle line:84% to vote similarly, and where, three, the majority votes 00:22:15.720 --> 00:22:19.130 align:middle line:84% sufficiently as a bloc to enable it, 00:22:19.130 --> 00:22:23.540 align:middle line:84% usually to the defeat of the minority's preferred candidate. 00:22:23.540 --> 00:22:26.370 align:middle line:84% I hope I'm not misapplying the conclusion by the Supreme 00:22:26.370 --> 00:22:27.710 align:middle line:90% Court. 00:22:27.710 --> 00:22:29.960 align:middle line:84% So I encourage the committee sitting here today 00:22:29.960 --> 00:22:33.440 align:middle line:84% to consider these past points, and make 00:22:33.440 --> 00:22:35.750 align:middle line:84% redistricting decisions not based 00:22:35.750 --> 00:22:41.330 align:middle line:84% on political expediencies, or the expediencies of incumbents 00:22:41.330 --> 00:22:46.970 align:middle line:84% or past imperfect redistricting precedent. 00:22:46.970 --> 00:22:48.860 align:middle line:84% Rather, there is the hope that you 00:22:48.860 --> 00:22:51.650 align:middle line:84% look at population balance and nonpartisan 00:22:51.650 --> 00:22:53.720 align:middle line:90% forms of political justice. 00:22:53.720 --> 00:22:59.210 align:middle line:84% We urge that you avoid the insularity of politics as usual 00:22:59.210 --> 00:23:03.920 align:middle line:84% that are tethered to racial gerrymandering of the past, 00:23:03.920 --> 00:23:06.310 align:middle line:90% and create a new pathway. 00:23:06.310 --> 00:23:09.110 align:middle line:84% I'd like to say, in conclusion, the most important 00:23:09.110 --> 00:23:13.110 align:middle line:84% political district for the Black community in this Commonwealth 00:23:13.110 --> 00:23:15.900 align:middle line:90% is the State Senate seat. 00:23:15.900 --> 00:23:21.120 align:middle line:84% In some way, the seat supersedes the political power or efficacy 00:23:21.120 --> 00:23:25.860 align:middle line:84% or importance of the mayor of Boston, the governor, the US 00:23:25.860 --> 00:23:29.010 align:middle line:84% Senate, and local members of the House or House 00:23:29.010 --> 00:23:30.610 align:middle line:90% of Representatives. 00:23:30.610 --> 00:23:31.110 align:middle line:90% Why? 00:23:31.110 --> 00:23:34.290 align:middle line:84% Because the person elected to this newly redrawn 00:23:34.290 --> 00:23:38.250 align:middle line:84% political State Senate seat, particularly in Boston, 00:23:38.250 --> 00:23:42.390 align:middle line:84% will live and engage within a community of interest which 00:23:42.390 --> 00:23:47.880 align:middle line:84% has been aggrieved and divided and diluted. 00:23:47.880 --> 00:23:50.940 align:middle line:84% A senator living within the geographic parameters 00:23:50.940 --> 00:23:53.730 align:middle line:84% of this district will be, in theory, 00:23:53.730 --> 00:23:56.460 align:middle line:84% uniquely beholden to a community that 00:23:56.460 --> 00:24:00.360 align:middle line:84% has been long suffering and requiring direct state 00:24:00.360 --> 00:24:02.820 align:middle line:90% action, funding, and attention. 00:24:02.820 --> 00:24:05.960 align:middle line:84% The state senator is the direct link 00:24:05.960 --> 00:24:11.300 align:middle line:84% to defining the needs of her district to her colleagues 00:24:11.300 --> 00:24:14.540 align:middle line:84% on the city level, on the state level, on the federal level. 00:24:14.540 --> 00:24:16.280 align:middle line:84% The State Senate of this district 00:24:16.280 --> 00:24:20.270 align:middle line:84% is critical to making the case for the delivery, again, 00:24:20.270 --> 00:24:22.250 align:middle line:84% of critical assistance and service. 00:24:22.250 --> 00:24:24.870 align:middle line:90% Nothing else is more important. 00:24:24.870 --> 00:24:26.850 align:middle line:84% Redrawing the State Senate map is 00:24:26.850 --> 00:24:30.390 align:middle line:84% paramount for the purposes of racial justice and attention 00:24:30.390 --> 00:24:33.870 align:middle line:84% to the needs of the truly disadvantaged. 00:24:33.870 --> 00:24:37.440 align:middle line:84% Thank you, members of the leadership of the Joint 00:24:37.440 --> 00:24:39.480 align:middle line:84% Committee and members of the committee. 00:24:39.480 --> 00:24:42.090 align:middle line:84% I appreciate your time and your patience 00:24:42.090 --> 00:24:46.260 align:middle line:84% as I walked through this commentary. 00:24:46.260 --> 00:24:47.700 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Reverend. 00:24:47.700 --> 00:24:48.908 align:middle line:90% We appreciate your testimony. 00:24:48.908 --> 00:24:50.367 align:middle line:84% We appreciate everything you've put 00:24:50.367 --> 00:24:51.840 align:middle line:84% on the table in this conversation 00:24:51.840 --> 00:24:54.340 align:middle line:84% and the conversations we've been having, and we look forward 00:24:54.340 --> 00:24:57.480 align:middle line:84% to the additional meeting that you're organizing, 00:24:57.480 --> 00:24:59.902 align:middle line:84% and certainly plan to participate in that. 00:24:59.902 --> 00:25:01.860 align:middle line:84% And I'll be letting all of my committee members 00:25:01.860 --> 00:25:04.020 align:middle line:84% know about that so that they have the opportunity 00:25:04.020 --> 00:25:05.880 align:middle line:90% to participate, as well. 00:25:05.880 --> 00:25:07.571 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:25:07.571 --> 00:25:10.560 align:middle line:84% I appreciate your leadership very much. 00:25:10.560 --> 00:25:14.910 align:middle line:84% Let me say-- you brought up Representative Tyler, Chair 00:25:14.910 --> 00:25:15.520 align:middle line:90% Tyler. 00:25:15.520 --> 00:25:17.640 align:middle line:84% And I think it's been said, but I just 00:25:17.640 --> 00:25:19.408 align:middle line:84% wanted to say it again that she's 00:25:19.408 --> 00:25:21.450 align:middle line:84% unable to be here this morning because her mother 00:25:21.450 --> 00:25:22.560 align:middle line:90% is in the ICU. 00:25:22.560 --> 00:25:26.100 align:middle line:84% Our thoughts are with her and her mother. 00:25:26.100 --> 00:25:32.440 align:middle line:84% And I want now to turn it over to my co-chair, 00:25:32.440 --> 00:25:35.970 align:middle line:84% if he has any comments at this time. 00:25:35.970 --> 00:25:36.980 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Senator. 00:25:36.980 --> 00:25:39.290 align:middle line:90% And Kevin, thank you. 00:25:39.290 --> 00:25:42.050 align:middle line:84% I had you in mind when I was talking earlier about people 00:25:42.050 --> 00:25:45.740 align:middle line:84% that we worked with 10 years ago that may, in fact, testify here 00:25:45.740 --> 00:25:46.290 align:middle line:90% again today. 00:25:46.290 --> 00:25:46.790 align:middle line:90% So-- 00:25:46.790 --> 00:25:48.030 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:25:48.030 --> 00:25:50.690 align:middle line:90% And I also want to-- 00:25:50.690 --> 00:25:53.810 align:middle line:84% you're always eloquent, and oftentimes too [? humble ?] 00:25:53.810 --> 00:25:56.240 align:middle line:84% [? of ?] because don't sell yourself short, 00:25:56.240 --> 00:25:58.760 align:middle line:84% you're pretty good at this redistricting stuff. 00:25:58.760 --> 00:26:00.620 align:middle line:90% But I would say this. 00:26:00.620 --> 00:26:03.890 align:middle line:84% What I found interesting, and you'll notice, is that, 00:26:03.890 --> 00:26:07.520 align:middle line:84% on the case law that you brought up from Wisconsin and North 00:26:07.520 --> 00:26:12.080 align:middle line:84% Carolina, none of them said Massachusetts. 00:26:12.080 --> 00:26:14.630 align:middle line:84% And one of the things we are most proud of 10 years ago 00:26:14.630 --> 00:26:18.800 align:middle line:84% that you should take pride in is that we were not sued, 00:26:18.800 --> 00:26:20.260 align:middle line:90% so there is no case law. 00:26:20.260 --> 00:26:21.523 align:middle line:90% That's right. 00:26:21.523 --> 00:26:23.190 align:middle line:84% There is no case law from Massachusetts. 00:26:23.190 --> 00:26:27.170 align:middle line:84% So those are the same principles and goals 00:26:27.170 --> 00:26:29.390 align:middle line:84% that we're going to put in this process 00:26:29.390 --> 00:26:33.000 align:middle line:84% this time around, one that gave us the first ever majority 00:26:33.000 --> 00:26:36.230 align:middle line:84% minority congressional district and the most ever 00:26:36.230 --> 00:26:42.967 align:middle line:84% House seats that are majority minority, which has given us 00:26:42.967 --> 00:26:45.050 align:middle line:84% Latino members in Lawrence that wouldn't be there, 00:26:45.050 --> 00:26:48.150 align:middle line:84% Cambodian members in Lowell that wouldn't be there. 00:26:48.150 --> 00:26:51.860 align:middle line:84% And you are right, it is the DNA of our democracy. 00:26:51.860 --> 00:26:54.080 align:middle line:84% And I appreciate your always eloquent words, 00:26:54.080 --> 00:26:57.830 align:middle line:84% and I am always happy to meet with you, 00:26:57.830 --> 00:27:03.110 align:middle line:84% as I intend to participate in that forum on the 14th-- 00:27:03.110 --> 00:27:03.650 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:27:03.650 --> 00:27:04.490 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:27:04.490 --> 00:27:07.262 align:middle line:90% --and continue this dialogue. 00:27:07.262 --> 00:27:09.720 align:middle line:84% I feel like it's been going on for 10 years, and it should. 00:27:09.720 --> 00:27:11.870 align:middle line:90% So thank you for your words. 00:27:11.870 --> 00:27:14.570 align:middle line:84% And I have no questions, but if any of my colleagues do, 00:27:14.570 --> 00:27:17.030 align:middle line:84% I'm sure the senator will ask them next if they 00:27:17.030 --> 00:27:18.840 align:middle line:90% want to have any questions. 00:27:18.840 --> 00:27:19.340 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:27:19.340 --> 00:27:22.370 align:middle line:84% Well, if I can just briefly respond to that, 00:27:22.370 --> 00:27:25.430 align:middle line:84% yes, I am proud to have participated 00:27:25.430 --> 00:27:27.830 align:middle line:84% in the process 10 years ago, where 00:27:27.830 --> 00:27:33.200 align:middle line:84% there was extraordinary progress made 00:27:33.200 --> 00:27:35.690 align:middle line:84% under the aegis of the Joint Committee, the Special Joint 00:27:35.690 --> 00:27:37.220 align:middle line:90% Committee around redistricting. 00:27:37.220 --> 00:27:43.140 align:middle line:84% Not only did we create Congresswoman Pressley's seat, 00:27:43.140 --> 00:27:46.280 align:middle line:84% or the district that she now presides over, 00:27:46.280 --> 00:27:49.700 align:middle line:84% but we doubled the number of so-called majority minority 00:27:49.700 --> 00:27:53.170 align:middle line:84% influenced districts across the state. 00:27:53.170 --> 00:27:56.280 align:middle line:84% I think that was unprecedented across the nation. 00:27:56.280 --> 00:28:00.320 align:middle line:84% So kudos to the committee [INAUDIBLE] 00:28:00.320 --> 00:28:02.480 align:middle line:90% part of that legacy. 00:28:02.480 --> 00:28:05.240 align:middle line:84% Senator Brownsberger, we're so happy to have 00:28:05.240 --> 00:28:08.690 align:middle line:84% your open ear and your engagement and participation 00:28:08.690 --> 00:28:14.840 align:middle line:84% in terms of hearing the voices of so-called minority advocates 00:28:14.840 --> 00:28:16.610 align:middle line:84% across the state, who are simply trying 00:28:16.610 --> 00:28:22.910 align:middle line:84% to make the lives of those who have been struggling 00:28:22.910 --> 00:28:25.940 align:middle line:84% and who have been hurt and harmed, and who stand, 00:28:25.940 --> 00:28:29.600 align:middle line:84% even this morning, aggrieved with regard 00:28:29.600 --> 00:28:32.300 align:middle line:84% to substandard education, with regard 00:28:32.300 --> 00:28:35.240 align:middle line:84% to disproportionate violence, with regard 00:28:35.240 --> 00:28:39.830 align:middle line:84% to income inequality in Boston and across the Commonwealth. 00:28:39.830 --> 00:28:46.460 align:middle line:84% You're so important to providing a new and a different framework 00:28:46.460 --> 00:28:50.060 align:middle line:84% with regard to redistricting so that those grievances 00:28:50.060 --> 00:28:53.420 align:middle line:84% on the social and political and cultural and economic level 00:28:53.420 --> 00:28:55.220 align:middle line:90% can be addressed. 00:28:55.220 --> 00:28:57.900 align:middle line:90% We hope for success. 00:28:57.900 --> 00:29:01.220 align:middle line:84% We hope to bring common sense to high places. 00:29:01.220 --> 00:29:04.527 align:middle line:84% And we look forward to every member of the redistricting 00:29:04.527 --> 00:29:06.360 align:middle line:84% committee, the joint redistricting committee 00:29:06.360 --> 00:29:09.500 align:middle line:90% to be present on August 14th. 00:29:09.500 --> 00:29:10.190 align:middle line:90% Thank you again. 00:29:10.190 --> 00:29:12.930 align:middle line:84% I'm open for some questions, if there are any. 00:29:12.930 --> 00:29:13.890 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:29:13.890 --> 00:29:18.513 align:middle line:84% So let me recognize Senator Chang-Diaz, just make sure 00:29:18.513 --> 00:29:20.180 align:middle line:84% that everybody knows that she's present, 00:29:20.180 --> 00:29:22.400 align:middle line:90% which I didn't recognize before. 00:29:22.400 --> 00:29:26.412 align:middle line:84% And so now, let me open it up to members 00:29:26.412 --> 00:29:28.370 align:middle line:84% of the committee, all members of the committee, 00:29:28.370 --> 00:29:30.380 align:middle line:90% for comments or questions. 00:29:30.380 --> 00:29:32.960 align:middle line:84% Actually, let me just start if Senator Chang-Diaz wants 00:29:32.960 --> 00:29:36.268 align:middle line:84% to say anything at this point, just any comments, 00:29:36.268 --> 00:29:38.310 align:middle line:84% being the senator from Boston who's present today 00:29:38.310 --> 00:29:40.290 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE]. 00:29:40.290 --> 00:29:41.060 align:middle line:90% I appreciate that. 00:29:41.060 --> 00:29:43.500 align:middle line:84% I'm most eager to hear from all the folks 00:29:43.500 --> 00:29:46.350 align:middle line:84% who have come to testify today, so I will just 00:29:46.350 --> 00:29:50.440 align:middle line:84% keep it at a brief good morning and welcome to all. 00:29:50.440 --> 00:29:50.940 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:29:50.940 --> 00:29:53.130 align:middle line:90% Morning, Senator. 00:29:53.130 --> 00:29:56.460 align:middle line:84% Questions, comments from anybody on the committee? 00:29:56.460 --> 00:29:57.780 align:middle line:90% Oh, yeah, whoa. 00:29:57.780 --> 00:29:59.880 align:middle line:84% It looks like I omitted somebody. 00:29:59.880 --> 00:30:04.740 align:middle line:84% My colleague Senator Gomez has been present 00:30:04.740 --> 00:30:07.050 align:middle line:84% here from the start, and I'm just recognizing him now. 00:30:07.050 --> 00:30:08.280 align:middle line:90% Forgive me, Senator Gomez. 00:30:08.280 --> 00:30:10.200 align:middle line:90% I apologize. 00:30:10.200 --> 00:30:12.720 align:middle line:84% Senator Gomez has been present from the start. 00:30:12.720 --> 00:30:15.311 align:middle line:84% Now, questions, comments from the committee. 00:30:15.311 --> 00:30:18.750 align:middle line:90% 00:30:18.750 --> 00:30:20.520 align:middle line:90% Mr. Chairman? 00:30:20.520 --> 00:30:23.220 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:30:23.220 --> 00:30:23.820 align:middle line:90% Please. 00:30:23.820 --> 00:30:26.730 align:middle line:90% If I could-- oh, thank you. 00:30:26.730 --> 00:30:27.840 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Reverend. 00:30:27.840 --> 00:30:28.590 align:middle line:90% I'm Anne Gobi. 00:30:28.590 --> 00:30:31.020 align:middle line:84% And I appreciate your comments, especially how 00:30:31.020 --> 00:30:32.940 align:middle line:84% you said how important the State Senate is. 00:30:32.940 --> 00:30:35.490 align:middle line:90% I agree with you there, as well. 00:30:35.490 --> 00:30:38.140 align:middle line:84% I'm just kind of curious, I may have missed it 00:30:38.140 --> 00:30:41.220 align:middle line:84% in some of your commentary, but do you actually 00:30:41.220 --> 00:30:46.530 align:middle line:84% have kind of your district drawn out, how you would like it? 00:30:46.530 --> 00:30:48.600 align:middle line:84% And is that something that you're able to share, 00:30:48.600 --> 00:30:51.480 align:middle line:84% or is that something you're still working on? 00:30:51.480 --> 00:30:54.163 align:middle line:84% It is something that's in development 00:30:54.163 --> 00:30:55.080 align:middle line:90% that we're working on. 00:30:55.080 --> 00:30:59.820 align:middle line:84% There is a local committee in Boston of Black activists 00:30:59.820 --> 00:31:02.340 align:middle line:84% and elders, and some of judges and teachers, 00:31:02.340 --> 00:31:06.480 align:middle line:84% and all types of people from different perspectives 00:31:06.480 --> 00:31:08.610 align:middle line:90% and walks of life. 00:31:08.610 --> 00:31:16.260 align:middle line:84% We do have an idea, a concept, as it were, in terms of a State 00:31:16.260 --> 00:31:18.150 align:middle line:84% Senate map that would accommodate 00:31:18.150 --> 00:31:21.480 align:middle line:84% the possibility of a Black returning to the Senate, 00:31:21.480 --> 00:31:25.440 align:middle line:84% as it has been since 1974, as the person in the Senate 00:31:25.440 --> 00:31:31.140 align:middle line:84% has been since 1974, except for the current iteration. 00:31:31.140 --> 00:31:35.280 align:middle line:84% The original Senate redistricting map 00:31:35.280 --> 00:31:41.910 align:middle line:84% for this purposes included simply drawing a redistricting 00:31:41.910 --> 00:31:45.900 align:middle line:84% map that down the spine of Blue Hill Avenue, 00:31:45.900 --> 00:31:53.540 align:middle line:84% which included the majority Black areas of Mattapan, 00:31:53.540 --> 00:31:57.700 align:middle line:84% Dorchester, Roxbury, and then the South End. 00:31:57.700 --> 00:32:02.270 align:middle line:84% That's not the current iteration of the [? first ?] 00:32:02.270 --> 00:32:04.810 align:middle line:84% second Suffolk or the second Suffolk district, 00:32:04.810 --> 00:32:08.030 align:middle line:84% which now splits those communities. 00:32:08.030 --> 00:32:11.870 align:middle line:84% In theory, we are interested in a map that 00:32:11.870 --> 00:32:18.070 align:middle line:84% doesn't follow the unique spine or linear spine theory, 00:32:18.070 --> 00:32:26.080 align:middle line:84% but a, for lack of crudeness, a crooked spine 00:32:26.080 --> 00:32:32.380 align:middle line:84% theory, which encaptures areas of Mattapan and-- 00:32:32.380 --> 00:32:37.840 align:middle line:84% I'm sorry, Hyde Park, and then Roslindale, and then 00:32:37.840 --> 00:32:43.000 align:middle line:84% down that original spine of Mattapan and Dorchester, 00:32:43.000 --> 00:32:48.400 align:middle line:84% and then Roxbury, and edging into perhaps 00:32:48.400 --> 00:32:53.770 align:middle line:84% Mission Hill, on one side, and perhaps the South End, 00:32:53.770 --> 00:32:57.880 align:middle line:84% or Lower Roxbury, as they call it, on the other side. 00:32:57.880 --> 00:33:01.960 align:middle line:84% There is interest and discussion among leadership 00:33:01.960 --> 00:33:05.980 align:middle line:84% that I follow here in the community around perhaps 00:33:05.980 --> 00:33:13.210 align:middle line:84% an incumbent-free State Senate district that becomes somewhat 00:33:13.210 --> 00:33:15.580 align:middle line:84% possible in the wake of the possibility 00:33:15.580 --> 00:33:18.310 align:middle line:84% that Senator Chang-Diaz will be leaving 00:33:18.310 --> 00:33:24.040 align:middle line:84% her seat at the end of this session 00:33:24.040 --> 00:33:26.230 align:middle line:90% as she runs for governor. 00:33:26.230 --> 00:33:28.720 align:middle line:84% That creates abundant opportunity 00:33:28.720 --> 00:33:36.130 align:middle line:84% to look at components of the first, second senatorial 00:33:36.130 --> 00:33:39.310 align:middle line:84% district, the second Suffolk senatorial 00:33:39.310 --> 00:33:45.760 align:middle line:84% district, and other areas that are not included currently 00:33:45.760 --> 00:33:48.250 align:middle line:84% in our thinking about redrawing the map. 00:33:48.250 --> 00:33:53.020 align:middle line:84% So there is opportunity to reimagine 00:33:53.020 --> 00:33:59.530 align:middle line:84% how we can create not only a singular majority seat that 00:33:59.530 --> 00:34:03.490 align:middle line:84% would allow for the articulation of the voters 00:34:03.490 --> 00:34:08.830 align:middle line:84% in that district to move towards a Black senator, 00:34:08.830 --> 00:34:15.110 align:middle line:84% but also create two, maybe three very strong influence, 00:34:15.110 --> 00:34:18.560 align:middle line:84% so-called minority majority influence districts, 00:34:18.560 --> 00:34:23.780 align:middle line:90% maybe two in the city of Boston. 00:34:23.780 --> 00:34:28.550 align:middle line:84% As you know, the city is increasingly diverse, 00:34:28.550 --> 00:34:35.420 align:middle line:84% and representative of so many different ethnicities and races 00:34:35.420 --> 00:34:41.300 align:middle line:84% that cohere into, as I mentioned on my testimony, communities 00:34:41.300 --> 00:34:42.620 align:middle line:90% of interest. 00:34:42.620 --> 00:34:44.989 align:middle line:84% So there is no distinction, in some ways, 00:34:44.989 --> 00:34:49.190 align:middle line:84% as if we look at it between the Latino 00:34:49.190 --> 00:34:52.699 align:middle line:84% community in Grove Hall, Dorchester, 00:34:52.699 --> 00:34:55.969 align:middle line:90% and the Mattapan community in-- 00:34:55.969 --> 00:34:59.180 align:middle line:84% I'm sorry, the Haitian community in Mattapan, 00:34:59.180 --> 00:35:03.620 align:middle line:84% the Cape Verdean community in the Meeting House Hill 00:35:03.620 --> 00:35:14.690 align:middle line:84% area in Dorchester, or a growing Latino community in Roslindale, 00:35:14.690 --> 00:35:15.800 align:middle line:90% for example. 00:35:15.800 --> 00:35:19.070 align:middle line:84% These communities, because of their geography 00:35:19.070 --> 00:35:21.240 align:middle line:90% and because of their station-- 00:35:21.240 --> 00:35:26.060 align:middle line:84% some are immigrants, some are not as educated as others-- 00:35:26.060 --> 00:35:28.460 align:middle line:84% they create a community of interest, 00:35:28.460 --> 00:35:32.630 align:middle line:84% which should be appropriately recognized 00:35:32.630 --> 00:35:36.710 align:middle line:84% by a state senator who, for lack of a better phrase, who 00:35:36.710 --> 00:35:40.850 align:middle line:84% feels their pain, who lives in immediate proximity 00:35:40.850 --> 00:35:44.210 align:middle line:84% of their communities, and who can reflect 00:35:44.210 --> 00:35:49.850 align:middle line:84% in very direct ways and very cogent ways 00:35:49.850 --> 00:35:55.160 align:middle line:84% the needs and the concerns of these community members. 00:35:55.160 --> 00:35:59.630 align:middle line:84% However diverse they are racially and ethnically, 00:35:59.630 --> 00:36:04.730 align:middle line:84% they persist within a community of interest, geographically 00:36:04.730 --> 00:36:05.720 align:middle line:90% and otherwise. 00:36:05.720 --> 00:36:07.160 align:middle line:90% Sorry for the long answer. 00:36:07.160 --> 00:36:08.300 align:middle line:90% No, no, that's OK. 00:36:08.300 --> 00:36:10.580 align:middle line:84% Mr. Chairman, can I just do a quick follow-up? 00:36:10.580 --> 00:36:11.906 align:middle line:90% Please. 00:36:11.906 --> 00:36:17.960 align:middle line:84% And thank you, and thank you for recognizing my colleague, 00:36:17.960 --> 00:36:19.970 align:middle line:90% Senator Chang-Diaz. 00:36:19.970 --> 00:36:23.540 align:middle line:84% I give her a lot of credit for throwing her hat 00:36:23.540 --> 00:36:25.530 align:middle line:90% into a ring at this time. 00:36:25.530 --> 00:36:27.470 align:middle line:84% And she deserves credit for that. 00:36:27.470 --> 00:36:30.350 align:middle line:84% Just so that I understand what you just mentioned, 00:36:30.350 --> 00:36:35.520 align:middle line:84% so regardless what happens, in your configuration, 00:36:35.520 --> 00:36:42.920 align:middle line:84% so that's not solely based on the senator leaving that seat. 00:36:42.920 --> 00:36:45.935 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] just trying to understand. 00:36:45.935 --> 00:36:46.560 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:36:46.560 --> 00:36:48.020 align:middle line:90% Well, yes and no. 00:36:48.020 --> 00:36:55.250 align:middle line:84% I mean, we would push for reconfiguration or redrawing 00:36:55.250 --> 00:36:59.960 align:middle line:84% even as the senator would remain in her district. 00:36:59.960 --> 00:37:02.670 align:middle line:84% The fact that she may be leaving-- 00:37:02.670 --> 00:37:05.990 align:middle line:84% we congratulate her also for her courage and her interest 00:37:05.990 --> 00:37:08.300 align:middle line:90% in high public service-- 00:37:08.300 --> 00:37:12.950 align:middle line:84% the fact that she is leaving provides ample opportunity 00:37:12.950 --> 00:37:16.700 align:middle line:84% to reimagine the entire scope of the city of Boston, 00:37:16.700 --> 00:37:20.330 align:middle line:84% the entire scope, so as to create 00:37:20.330 --> 00:37:25.850 align:middle line:84% this enormous opportunity, one that follows from our-- 00:37:25.850 --> 00:37:30.410 align:middle line:84% as you recall, Rep Gobi, 10 years ago, 00:37:30.410 --> 00:37:31.550 align:middle line:90% you were on the committee. 00:37:31.550 --> 00:37:34.400 align:middle line:84% You recall the miracle in Massachusetts, 00:37:34.400 --> 00:37:36.380 align:middle line:84% in terms of redistricting reform. 00:37:36.380 --> 00:37:37.940 align:middle line:90% You were part of that. 00:37:37.940 --> 00:37:42.230 align:middle line:84% We can do something similar to what we did a decade, 00:37:42.230 --> 00:37:45.110 align:middle line:84% and really tie up the loose ends. 00:37:45.110 --> 00:37:50.270 align:middle line:84% We pushed for this type of district 10 years ago. 00:37:50.270 --> 00:37:54.890 align:middle line:84% It became [? subliminated ?] in some ways, 00:37:54.890 --> 00:38:00.440 align:middle line:84% to the real interest in creating the seventh CD. 00:38:00.440 --> 00:38:06.670 align:middle line:84% But here we are now, with an ample opportunity to do well. 00:38:06.670 --> 00:38:07.170 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:38:07.170 --> 00:38:08.628 align:middle line:84% I appreciate it, and I look forward 00:38:08.628 --> 00:38:11.610 align:middle line:84% to seeing the map once you have it set. 00:38:11.610 --> 00:38:12.420 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:38:12.420 --> 00:38:14.680 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:38:14.680 --> 00:38:16.848 align:middle line:84% Other questions from members of the committee? 00:38:16.848 --> 00:38:21.830 align:middle line:90% 00:38:21.830 --> 00:38:23.810 align:middle line:84% Reverend, thank you so much for your testimony. 00:38:23.810 --> 00:38:25.710 align:middle line:84% We look forward to working with you. 00:38:25.710 --> 00:38:27.140 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 00:38:27.140 --> 00:38:28.460 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:38:28.460 --> 00:38:30.740 align:middle line:90% All right. 00:38:30.740 --> 00:38:34.460 align:middle line:84% So now, just so people have a sense, what 00:38:34.460 --> 00:38:36.200 align:middle line:84% we're going to now do is there are 00:38:36.200 --> 00:38:40.740 align:middle line:84% an additional seven or eight elected officials who've 00:38:40.740 --> 00:38:42.110 align:middle line:90% signed up. 00:38:42.110 --> 00:38:44.990 align:middle line:84% And I'm going to recognize them in order, 00:38:44.990 --> 00:38:49.770 align:middle line:84% and then I'm going to proceed to recognize others on the list. 00:38:49.770 --> 00:38:57.430 align:middle line:84% So I've got Roberto Jimenez Rivera from Chelsea. 00:38:57.430 --> 00:38:58.670 align:middle line:90% And Maeve, I'm presuming-- 00:38:58.670 --> 00:39:02.090 align:middle line:84% Maeve, if you go ahead and promote people. 00:39:02.090 --> 00:39:02.840 align:middle line:90% Yep. 00:39:02.840 --> 00:39:03.410 align:middle line:90% There we go. 00:39:03.410 --> 00:39:04.118 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Maeve. 00:39:04.118 --> 00:39:07.660 align:middle line:90% 00:39:07.660 --> 00:39:08.160 align:middle line:90% Roberto. 00:39:08.160 --> 00:39:09.260 align:middle line:90% All right. 00:39:09.260 --> 00:39:10.200 align:middle line:90% Can you hear me? 00:39:10.200 --> 00:39:11.240 align:middle line:90% Yes, sir. 00:39:11.240 --> 00:39:13.010 align:middle line:90% All right, wonderful. 00:39:13.010 --> 00:39:14.130 align:middle line:90% Hello, everyone. 00:39:14.130 --> 00:39:15.650 align:middle line:84% My name is Roberto Jimenez Rivera. 00:39:15.650 --> 00:39:17.723 align:middle line:84% I'm a member of the Chelsea School Committee. 00:39:17.723 --> 00:39:19.640 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Chair Brownsberger and Chair Moran, 00:39:19.640 --> 00:39:22.220 align:middle line:84% for hosting this hearing and having us. 00:39:22.220 --> 00:39:23.960 align:middle line:84% Before I moved to Chelsea, I dreamed 00:39:23.960 --> 00:39:25.610 align:middle line:84% of finding a place in Massachusetts 00:39:25.610 --> 00:39:27.860 align:middle line:84% where I could find a Latinx community like the one 00:39:27.860 --> 00:39:30.820 align:middle line:84% that I'd left behind in Puerto Rico, where I grew up. 00:39:30.820 --> 00:39:34.360 align:middle line:84% I bounced around from Medford to Watertown to Cambridge, 00:39:34.360 --> 00:39:36.070 align:middle line:90% and eventually, I found Chelsea. 00:39:36.070 --> 00:39:37.840 align:middle line:84% And I realized that the city of immigrants 00:39:37.840 --> 00:39:39.790 align:middle line:84% was a place that I could afford, and it 00:39:39.790 --> 00:39:42.040 align:middle line:84% was a place where my kid could grow up hearing Spanish 00:39:42.040 --> 00:39:44.590 align:middle line:84% when he walks down the street, where family is not only 00:39:44.590 --> 00:39:47.620 align:middle line:84% about being related, but also about a shared lived experience 00:39:47.620 --> 00:39:50.770 align:middle line:84% that strengthens the connections between so many of our people. 00:39:50.770 --> 00:39:52.450 align:middle line:84% It is that depth of community that 00:39:52.450 --> 00:39:55.510 align:middle line:84% made me want to represent the likely almost 60,000 people 00:39:55.510 --> 00:39:57.100 align:middle line:90% that live in Chelsea. 00:39:57.100 --> 00:39:59.980 align:middle line:84% And we know that many of them were not counted in the census, 00:39:59.980 --> 00:40:01.630 align:middle line:84% but we also know that they're there, 00:40:01.630 --> 00:40:04.060 align:middle line:90% and that their voices matter. 00:40:04.060 --> 00:40:05.552 align:middle line:84% At about two square miles, Chelsea 00:40:05.552 --> 00:40:07.510 align:middle line:84% is the smallest city in the Commonwealth, which 00:40:07.510 --> 00:40:08.927 align:middle line:84% means that I can walk from one end 00:40:08.927 --> 00:40:12.400 align:middle line:84% to the other in about 45 minutes and drive it in about 10, 00:40:12.400 --> 00:40:13.990 align:middle line:90% a little slow with traffic. 00:40:13.990 --> 00:40:17.080 align:middle line:84% And yet, we're currently split up into two House districts. 00:40:17.080 --> 00:40:19.990 align:middle line:84% So I would ask that this committee keep Chelsea together 00:40:19.990 --> 00:40:23.200 align:middle line:84% this time around in the House districts. 00:40:23.200 --> 00:40:25.450 align:middle line:84% Since we will likely need precincts from a neighboring 00:40:25.450 --> 00:40:28.000 align:middle line:84% town to reach the census population minimum, 00:40:28.000 --> 00:40:30.420 align:middle line:84% I just want to highlight a little bit of our relationship 00:40:30.420 --> 00:40:32.980 align:middle line:90% with East Boston, in particular. 00:40:32.980 --> 00:40:35.560 align:middle line:84% Very often, Chelsea is the next stop 00:40:35.560 --> 00:40:38.020 align:middle line:84% for people who get priced out of East Boston. 00:40:38.020 --> 00:40:41.440 align:middle line:84% And I see that a lot when I talk to families who are now 00:40:41.440 --> 00:40:44.140 align:middle line:84% enrolling in our schools, who were previously 00:40:44.140 --> 00:40:46.270 align:middle line:90% living in East Boston. 00:40:46.270 --> 00:40:47.980 align:middle line:84% In the height of the pandemic, Chelsea 00:40:47.980 --> 00:40:50.230 align:middle line:84% had the highest COVID rates in Massachusetts. 00:40:50.230 --> 00:40:52.690 align:middle line:84% And as somebody who works for the Boston Teachers Union, 00:40:52.690 --> 00:40:55.655 align:middle line:84% I saw very much the numbers in East Boston. 00:40:55.655 --> 00:40:57.280 align:middle line:84% And they would have been right up there 00:40:57.280 --> 00:41:00.170 align:middle line:84% with us, if it was a municipality of its own. 00:41:00.170 --> 00:41:02.290 align:middle line:84% We also share the Chelsea Creek with East Boston, 00:41:02.290 --> 00:41:04.480 align:middle line:84% and there is significant environmental justice work 00:41:04.480 --> 00:41:07.150 align:middle line:84% and organizing happening on both sides of the creek, 00:41:07.150 --> 00:41:11.263 align:middle line:84% in particular with GreenRoots and the Chelsea Collaborative. 00:41:11.263 --> 00:41:13.180 align:middle line:84% Most recently, especially against the building 00:41:13.180 --> 00:41:16.300 align:middle line:84% of the new electrical substation in East Boston. 00:41:16.300 --> 00:41:18.460 align:middle line:84% And lastly, many of the essential workers 00:41:18.460 --> 00:41:20.080 align:middle line:84% who live in our city, and who make up 00:41:20.080 --> 00:41:25.600 align:middle line:84% 80% of Chelsea's workforce, take the 114, the 116, or the 117 00:41:25.600 --> 00:41:27.420 align:middle line:90% into Maverick Station every day. 00:41:27.420 --> 00:41:29.170 align:middle line:84% I think that those communities of interest 00:41:29.170 --> 00:41:32.690 align:middle line:84% need to be kept in mind as new lines are drawn. 00:41:32.690 --> 00:41:34.510 align:middle line:84% In terms of the Senate district, I 00:41:34.510 --> 00:41:37.010 align:middle line:84% believe Senator DiDomenico has done a great job representing 00:41:37.010 --> 00:41:39.740 align:middle line:84% our folks, particularly in his tireless work for the Student 00:41:39.740 --> 00:41:41.120 align:middle line:90% Opportunity Act. 00:41:41.120 --> 00:41:42.967 align:middle line:84% He's also often present in Chelsea, 00:41:42.967 --> 00:41:45.050 align:middle line:84% and does a great job of supporting the work that's 00:41:45.050 --> 00:41:46.730 align:middle line:90% already happening in the city. 00:41:46.730 --> 00:41:48.980 align:middle line:84% I think many of us would agree that we'd 00:41:48.980 --> 00:41:51.330 align:middle line:90% like to stay in his district. 00:41:51.330 --> 00:41:53.520 align:middle line:84% And in terms of our congressional representation, 00:41:53.520 --> 00:41:56.250 align:middle line:84% many of my constituents and others around the seventh 00:41:56.250 --> 00:41:58.170 align:middle line:84% consider Congresswoman Pressley's victory, 00:41:58.170 --> 00:41:59.760 align:middle line:84% becoming the first Black congresswoman 00:41:59.760 --> 00:42:02.130 align:middle line:84% from Massachusetts, one of the crowning achievements 00:42:02.130 --> 00:42:04.240 align:middle line:90% of the last redistricting cycle. 00:42:04.240 --> 00:42:06.360 align:middle line:84% However, the fact that it took eight years 00:42:06.360 --> 00:42:09.248 align:middle line:84% after the redistricting process of 2010 for this to happen 00:42:09.248 --> 00:42:11.040 align:middle line:84% shows that there's still a lot of work that 00:42:11.040 --> 00:42:13.290 align:middle line:84% has to be done to ensure that communities of color 00:42:13.290 --> 00:42:15.420 align:middle line:84% are able to elect candidates of their choice, 00:42:15.420 --> 00:42:18.102 align:middle line:84% both in Congress and in the state legislature. 00:42:18.102 --> 00:42:20.310 align:middle line:84% I believe the congresswoman has done a phenomenal job 00:42:20.310 --> 00:42:22.860 align:middle line:84% in elevating issues of equity during this pandemic, 00:42:22.860 --> 00:42:25.140 align:middle line:84% such as reporting demographic data on infections 00:42:25.140 --> 00:42:27.330 align:middle line:84% and vaccinations, protecting folks 00:42:27.330 --> 00:42:29.295 align:middle line:84% who live in public housing, and of course 00:42:29.295 --> 00:42:31.170 align:middle line:84% the environmental justice work that she spoke 00:42:31.170 --> 00:42:33.477 align:middle line:90% about earlier in her testimony. 00:42:33.477 --> 00:42:35.310 align:middle line:84% Therefore, I think it's crucial that Chelsea 00:42:35.310 --> 00:42:37.080 align:middle line:90% remain in CD seven. 00:42:37.080 --> 00:42:39.480 align:middle line:84% Chelsea helps to keep CD seven a majority people of color 00:42:39.480 --> 00:42:42.030 align:middle line:84% district, and so many of our essential workers 00:42:42.030 --> 00:42:43.920 align:middle line:84% kept the Boston economy running prior 00:42:43.920 --> 00:42:46.183 align:middle line:84% to and during the pandemic that it would not 00:42:46.183 --> 00:42:47.850 align:middle line:84% make sense to me if we were disconnected 00:42:47.850 --> 00:42:49.500 align:middle line:90% from that district. 00:42:49.500 --> 00:42:51.660 align:middle line:84% These lines are not only about representation, 00:42:51.660 --> 00:42:53.353 align:middle line:90% but about community building. 00:42:53.353 --> 00:42:55.020 align:middle line:84% The communities that this committee puts 00:42:55.020 --> 00:42:57.510 align:middle line:84% together will be incentivized to build together 00:42:57.510 --> 00:43:00.340 align:middle line:84% not only as individual cities, but as a region. 00:43:00.340 --> 00:43:02.100 align:middle line:84% I hope that you will keep that in mind, 00:43:02.100 --> 00:43:04.142 align:middle line:84% and you'll keep in mind the work that has already 00:43:04.142 --> 00:43:06.840 align:middle line:84% existed in this region so that we can bring civic engagement 00:43:06.840 --> 00:43:09.175 align:middle line:84% in Massachusetts, and in Chelsea, in particular, 00:43:09.175 --> 00:43:10.800 align:middle line:84% to levels that we've never seen before. 00:43:10.800 --> 00:43:13.018 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:43:13.018 --> 00:43:14.560 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony. 00:43:14.560 --> 00:43:16.741 align:middle line:84% Are there questions from members of the committee? 00:43:16.741 --> 00:43:20.980 align:middle line:90% 00:43:20.980 --> 00:43:24.230 align:middle line:90% Senator, if I could-- 00:43:24.230 --> 00:43:26.290 align:middle line:90% I'm on the screen here-- 00:43:26.290 --> 00:43:29.620 align:middle line:84% I would just say that, 10 years ago, 00:43:29.620 --> 00:43:34.060 align:middle line:84% when we were looking at the East Boston and Chelsea Latino 00:43:34.060 --> 00:43:39.520 align:middle line:84% population, in particular, we tried to make a majority Latino 00:43:39.520 --> 00:43:46.240 align:middle line:84% district by moving a precinct from East Boston into Chelsea. 00:43:46.240 --> 00:43:54.550 align:middle line:84% Then, a number of the advocates in the community in Chelsea 00:43:54.550 --> 00:44:01.070 align:middle line:84% that were Latino had put a petition together, 00:44:01.070 --> 00:44:03.850 align:middle line:90% and asked us not to do that. 00:44:03.850 --> 00:44:06.815 align:middle line:84% So we switched it back, and [INAUDIBLE] 00:44:06.815 --> 00:44:08.530 align:middle line:84% since, the rep district, which is now 00:44:08.530 --> 00:44:13.540 align:middle line:84% being represented by Adrian Madaro, 00:44:13.540 --> 00:44:16.510 align:middle line:84% has, through natural progression, 00:44:16.510 --> 00:44:23.830 align:middle line:84% turned into a section two Latino district. 00:44:23.830 --> 00:44:25.510 align:middle line:84% But I assure you, I will be looking 00:44:25.510 --> 00:44:29.370 align:middle line:84% at those numbers in Chelsea, Everett, and Revere, 00:44:29.370 --> 00:44:33.640 align:middle line:84% in that conglomeration of Latino people, 00:44:33.640 --> 00:44:35.140 align:middle line:84% to see if there is something there 00:44:35.140 --> 00:44:37.420 align:middle line:90% that would be interesting. 00:44:37.420 --> 00:44:39.760 align:middle line:84% We will be most assuredly looking 00:44:39.760 --> 00:44:42.670 align:middle line:84% at that to see what the last 10 years has 00:44:42.670 --> 00:44:44.020 align:middle line:90% given us, quite frankly. 00:44:44.020 --> 00:44:48.190 align:middle line:84% So just to give you an idea what we're thinking, that's all. 00:44:48.190 --> 00:44:50.740 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:44:50.740 --> 00:44:51.910 align:middle line:90% Other questions or comments. 00:44:51.910 --> 00:44:56.620 align:middle line:90% 00:44:56.620 --> 00:44:58.200 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony. 00:44:58.200 --> 00:44:59.580 align:middle line:90% Very much appreciate it. 00:44:59.580 --> 00:45:01.520 align:middle line:90% Thank you so much. 00:45:01.520 --> 00:45:07.470 align:middle line:84% We've got Representative Erika Uyterhoeven from Somerville, 00:45:07.470 --> 00:45:09.060 align:middle line:90% I believe has signed up. 00:45:09.060 --> 00:45:10.920 align:middle line:84% Senator, before-- this is [? Mikey-- ?] 00:45:10.920 --> 00:45:12.907 align:middle line:84% before we do that, can I call out 00:45:12.907 --> 00:45:15.240 align:middle line:84% my colleagues that are also here there on the committee, 00:45:15.240 --> 00:45:15.900 align:middle line:90% if that's OK? 00:45:15.900 --> 00:45:17.190 align:middle line:90% Please do. 00:45:17.190 --> 00:45:19.515 align:middle line:90% Erika wouldn't mind, I'm sure. 00:45:19.515 --> 00:45:23.130 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] here today with us on this Zoom 00:45:23.130 --> 00:45:26.160 align:middle line:84% is my co-chair, the gentleman from Lawrence, 00:45:26.160 --> 00:45:28.020 align:middle line:90% Marcos Devers is here. 00:45:28.020 --> 00:45:29.520 align:middle line:84% The gentlelady from Provincetown, 00:45:29.520 --> 00:45:32.310 align:middle line:84% who has attended every one of these hearings, Sarah Peake. 00:45:32.310 --> 00:45:34.080 align:middle line:90% Thank you for being here. 00:45:34.080 --> 00:45:35.850 align:middle line:84% The gentleman from Chicopee, Joe Wagner, 00:45:35.850 --> 00:45:37.060 align:middle line:90% has taken time to be here. 00:45:37.060 --> 00:45:38.760 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Joe. 00:45:38.760 --> 00:45:42.330 align:middle line:84% The gentleman from West Boylston, by way of Worcester-- 00:45:42.330 --> 00:45:45.060 align:middle line:90% Jimmy O'Day-- thank you, Jimmy. 00:45:45.060 --> 00:45:47.370 align:middle line:84% The gentleman from Lowell, Tommy Golden, is here. 00:45:47.370 --> 00:45:49.320 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Tommy. 00:45:49.320 --> 00:45:52.740 align:middle line:84% The gentleman from Mattapoisett, William Straus-- thank you, 00:45:52.740 --> 00:45:53.980 align:middle line:90% Billy, for your attendance. 00:45:53.980 --> 00:45:56.670 align:middle line:84% I know you're working on a very important transportation bond 00:45:56.670 --> 00:45:58.893 align:middle line:84% bill, and I thank you for taking time 00:45:58.893 --> 00:46:00.810 align:middle line:84% to be here even though you're working on that. 00:46:00.810 --> 00:46:03.090 align:middle line:84% The gentlewoman all the way from Pittsfield 00:46:03.090 --> 00:46:05.190 align:middle line:84% who has attended every one of these as well-- 00:46:05.190 --> 00:46:06.510 align:middle line:90% Tricia Farley-Bouvier is here. 00:46:06.510 --> 00:46:08.190 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Tricia. 00:46:08.190 --> 00:46:11.040 align:middle line:84% The newest member, the gentleman from Barnstable, 00:46:11.040 --> 00:46:13.200 align:middle line:84% Representative Kip Diggs is also here, 00:46:13.200 --> 00:46:16.080 align:middle line:84% also has attended almost every one of these hearings. 00:46:16.080 --> 00:46:19.830 align:middle line:84% The ranking Republican on this committee, 00:46:19.830 --> 00:46:22.380 align:middle line:84% who was also on this committee 10 years ago, I believe-- 00:46:22.380 --> 00:46:24.510 align:middle line:84% Representative Paul Frost is here. 00:46:24.510 --> 00:46:29.150 align:middle line:84% From the great city of Auburn, Representative Kim Ferguson's 00:46:29.150 --> 00:46:29.650 align:middle line:90% here. 00:46:29.650 --> 00:46:30.540 align:middle line:90% She's from Holden. 00:46:30.540 --> 00:46:32.190 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Kim, for being here. 00:46:32.190 --> 00:46:34.620 align:middle line:84% And Representative Nick Boldyga is here. 00:46:34.620 --> 00:46:37.890 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Nick, from the great town of Norfolk. 00:46:37.890 --> 00:46:39.710 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Nick. 00:46:39.710 --> 00:46:42.280 align:middle line:90% Senator. 00:46:42.280 --> 00:46:44.800 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much, Mr. Co-chair. 00:46:44.800 --> 00:46:48.190 align:middle line:90% I've got Erika Uyterhoeven. 00:46:48.190 --> 00:46:50.870 align:middle line:90% Please, the floor is yours. 00:46:50.870 --> 00:46:52.210 align:middle line:90% Thank you so much. 00:46:52.210 --> 00:46:54.430 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Chairman Moran and Chairman Brownsberger 00:46:54.430 --> 00:46:56.260 align:middle line:84% and esteemed members of the Joint Committee 00:46:56.260 --> 00:46:58.630 align:middle line:84% on Redistricting for holding this hearing 00:46:58.630 --> 00:47:01.360 align:middle line:84% and for the opportunity for all of us to testify, 00:47:01.360 --> 00:47:04.090 align:middle line:84% as well as for your tireless and diligent work 00:47:04.090 --> 00:47:07.780 align:middle line:84% on this enormous task ahead of us of redistricting. 00:47:07.780 --> 00:47:10.540 align:middle line:84% I also want to send a special thanks to Chairman Moran, who 00:47:10.540 --> 00:47:13.120 align:middle line:84% brings his thoughtfulness and valuable experience 00:47:13.120 --> 00:47:17.110 align:middle line:84% on this complex process from the 2010 redistricting. 00:47:17.110 --> 00:47:19.540 align:middle line:84% Somerville has been incredibly fortunate 00:47:19.540 --> 00:47:22.720 align:middle line:84% to have districts for Congress and especially for state rep 00:47:22.720 --> 00:47:25.390 align:middle line:84% and state Senate over the past few decades that 00:47:25.390 --> 00:47:27.280 align:middle line:90% has kept our communities whole. 00:47:27.280 --> 00:47:29.470 align:middle line:84% These districts have, over the past few decades, 00:47:29.470 --> 00:47:32.110 align:middle line:84% reflected the communities of interest in our city, 00:47:32.110 --> 00:47:35.110 align:middle line:84% and specifically since the 90s, Somerville always 00:47:35.110 --> 00:47:37.547 align:middle line:84% has had three districts-- one that represents 00:47:37.547 --> 00:47:39.880 align:middle line:84% East Somerville and the part of the city between McGrath 00:47:39.880 --> 00:47:42.880 align:middle line:84% Highway and I-93, and a part of Union Square; 00:47:42.880 --> 00:47:46.090 align:middle line:84% one that represents the parts of our city bordering the Mystic 00:47:46.090 --> 00:47:49.210 align:middle line:84% River and Medford; and one that represents the district that 00:47:49.210 --> 00:47:52.180 align:middle line:84% has been the honor of my life to represent, 00:47:52.180 --> 00:47:54.880 align:middle line:84% the vivacious and brilliant constituents and communities 00:47:54.880 --> 00:47:57.910 align:middle line:84% that include Union Square, Porter square, Davis square, 00:47:57.910 --> 00:48:00.580 align:middle line:90% Magoun Square and Ball Square. 00:48:00.580 --> 00:48:03.130 align:middle line:84% Your hard work on drawing and preserving these districts 00:48:03.130 --> 00:48:06.280 align:middle line:84% has ensured strong representation of the city's 00:48:06.280 --> 00:48:09.250 align:middle line:84% priorities and unique needs at the state House 00:48:09.250 --> 00:48:10.720 align:middle line:90% and in Congress. 00:48:10.720 --> 00:48:12.620 align:middle line:84% Somerville has faced many challenges, 00:48:12.620 --> 00:48:15.520 align:middle line:84% including notably being the city with one of the highest 00:48:15.520 --> 00:48:18.710 align:middle line:84% increases in housing prices over the past 10 years. 00:48:18.710 --> 00:48:21.040 align:middle line:84% And as a result, we face a displacement crisis 00:48:21.040 --> 00:48:24.220 align:middle line:84% for our immigrant communities, Latinx, Haitian, Brazilian, 00:48:24.220 --> 00:48:27.220 align:middle line:84% Nepalese, Tibetan, and other BIPOC communities, 00:48:27.220 --> 00:48:30.310 align:middle line:84% for our lifelong residents, and for our young people 00:48:30.310 --> 00:48:33.100 align:middle line:84% and tenants who struggle to stay in Somerville. 00:48:33.100 --> 00:48:36.220 align:middle line:84% We are all very excited for the Green Line extension. 00:48:36.220 --> 00:48:38.680 align:middle line:84% And speaking for myself, I spent most of my lifetime 00:48:38.680 --> 00:48:42.190 align:middle line:84% in anticipation for this much-needed public transit 00:48:42.190 --> 00:48:43.150 align:middle line:90% to Somerville. 00:48:43.150 --> 00:48:45.250 align:middle line:84% And we know as a result, though, that we 00:48:45.250 --> 00:48:48.380 align:middle line:84% will continue to face these challenges ahead of us. 00:48:48.380 --> 00:48:50.140 align:middle line:84% And so for this reason, I hope that we 00:48:50.140 --> 00:48:53.410 align:middle line:84% can preserve the districts that have represented Somerville 00:48:53.410 --> 00:48:55.750 align:middle line:84% and our voice and our communities of interest 00:48:55.750 --> 00:48:57.220 align:middle line:90% these past decades. 00:48:57.220 --> 00:48:58.900 align:middle line:84% Very quickly, I also want to just thank 00:48:58.900 --> 00:48:59.980 align:middle line:90% Congresswoman Pressley. 00:48:59.980 --> 00:49:01.810 align:middle line:84% It has truly been an honor to work 00:49:01.810 --> 00:49:03.233 align:middle line:84% with her during my first term here 00:49:03.233 --> 00:49:04.900 align:middle line:84% in the House of Representatives, and she 00:49:04.900 --> 00:49:06.970 align:middle line:84% has been a powerful, much-needed voice, 00:49:06.970 --> 00:49:09.190 align:middle line:84% representing our district and our district's needs. 00:49:09.190 --> 00:49:10.780 align:middle line:84% So thank you, Congresswoman Pressley, 00:49:10.780 --> 00:49:13.822 align:middle line:84% for representing our city's shared voice and brilliance. 00:49:13.822 --> 00:49:15.280 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much to the committee, 00:49:15.280 --> 00:49:17.710 align:middle line:84% and I very much look forward to working with you 00:49:17.710 --> 00:49:20.500 align:middle line:84% all in this complex process ahead of us. 00:49:20.500 --> 00:49:23.050 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:49:23.050 --> 00:49:24.880 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony. 00:49:24.880 --> 00:49:29.100 align:middle line:84% Any questions or thoughts for Representative Uyterhoeven? 00:49:29.100 --> 00:49:32.390 align:middle line:90% 00:49:32.390 --> 00:49:34.074 align:middle line:84% Thank you again for your testimony. 00:49:34.074 --> 00:49:36.860 align:middle line:90% 00:49:36.860 --> 00:49:40.360 align:middle line:84% I've got Yessenia Alfaro of Chelsea, please. 00:49:40.360 --> 00:49:50.476 align:middle line:90% 00:49:50.476 --> 00:49:52.430 align:middle line:90% What was that name? 00:49:52.430 --> 00:49:53.680 align:middle line:90% Last name, Alfaro. 00:49:53.680 --> 00:50:00.570 align:middle line:84% She's ID number 9 on the spreadsheet. 00:50:00.570 --> 00:50:02.730 align:middle line:84% This probably comes up under Y on the list, all 00:50:02.730 --> 00:50:05.010 align:middle line:84% the way at the-- oh, actually, it 00:50:05.010 --> 00:50:06.960 align:middle line:90% doesn't appear that she's on. 00:50:06.960 --> 00:50:11.800 align:middle line:84% But so we'll go back to her if she appears later. 00:50:11.800 --> 00:50:19.110 align:middle line:84% I've got a panel of Jesse Gordon and Katrina Huff-Larmond 00:50:19.110 --> 00:50:21.710 align:middle line:90% from Randolph. 00:50:21.710 --> 00:50:30.010 align:middle line:84% So if we could promote both of them, 00:50:30.010 --> 00:50:35.252 align:middle line:84% the floor is yours, members of the panel, Jesse and Katrina-- 00:50:35.252 --> 00:50:37.210 align:middle line:84% Katrina, why don't you start, and I'll pick up? 00:50:37.210 --> 00:50:39.640 align:middle line:90% 00:50:39.640 --> 00:50:40.140 align:middle line:90% Yes. 00:50:40.140 --> 00:50:51.710 align:middle line:90% 00:50:51.710 --> 00:50:53.930 align:middle line:84% I don't know if my colleague Katrina is on. 00:50:53.930 --> 00:50:55.550 align:middle line:90% I'm Town Councilor Jesse Gordon. 00:50:55.550 --> 00:50:57.680 align:middle line:84% That's Town Councilor Katrina Huff-Larmond. 00:50:57.680 --> 00:50:58.520 align:middle line:90% She's on. 00:50:58.520 --> 00:50:59.390 align:middle line:90% I'm here. 00:50:59.390 --> 00:51:00.230 align:middle line:90% I'm here. 00:51:00.230 --> 00:51:02.070 align:middle line:90% Hello, and good morning to all. 00:51:02.070 --> 00:51:03.140 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:51:03.140 --> 00:51:05.090 align:middle line:84% Definitely, thank you to the Committee 00:51:05.090 --> 00:51:08.060 align:middle line:84% for doing this great and hard work. 00:51:08.060 --> 00:51:09.740 align:middle line:84% Thank you for being with us, Councilor. 00:51:09.740 --> 00:51:10.780 align:middle line:90% We appreciate it. 00:51:10.780 --> 00:51:12.440 align:middle line:90% Absolutely, thank you. 00:51:12.440 --> 00:51:16.700 align:middle line:84% My name is Katrina Huff-Larmond, Town Councilor of Randolph. 00:51:16.700 --> 00:51:19.040 align:middle line:90% I want to start talking about-- 00:51:19.040 --> 00:51:21.560 align:middle line:84% we want to start with the congressional district. 00:51:21.560 --> 00:51:25.310 align:middle line:84% We've waited too long, [INAUDIBLE] waited too long 00:51:25.310 --> 00:51:27.470 align:middle line:90% for equity and equality. 00:51:27.470 --> 00:51:30.080 align:middle line:84% And finally, we're getting that opportunity 00:51:30.080 --> 00:51:33.920 align:middle line:84% to be represented by a majority-minority community. 00:51:33.920 --> 00:51:35.750 align:middle line:84% And we're interested in remaining 00:51:35.750 --> 00:51:38.510 align:middle line:84% in a majority-minority community. 00:51:38.510 --> 00:51:46.230 align:middle line:84% Since our representive, Congresswoman Pressley, 00:51:46.230 --> 00:51:52.680 align:middle line:84% has taken an intimate-- has put an intimate focus on equity, 00:51:52.680 --> 00:51:57.990 align:middle line:84% inclusion, and equality, and due to the fact that Randolph is 00:51:57.990 --> 00:52:04.050 align:middle line:84% a majority-minority town, it's important that we have 00:52:04.050 --> 00:52:08.940 align:middle line:84% a representative who has a focus-- 00:52:08.940 --> 00:52:13.140 align:middle line:84% and necessary focus-- on the three-- equity, inclusion, 00:52:13.140 --> 00:52:15.210 align:middle line:90% and equality. 00:52:15.210 --> 00:52:17.970 align:middle line:84% I think under our current district representation, 00:52:17.970 --> 00:52:22.200 align:middle line:84% we are going forward, and District 7 is a great role 00:52:22.200 --> 00:52:27.000 align:middle line:84% model and why we need more majority-minority community 00:52:27.000 --> 00:52:28.170 align:middle line:90% districts. 00:52:28.170 --> 00:52:31.470 align:middle line:84% As a Randolph-elected official who 00:52:31.470 --> 00:52:35.520 align:middle line:84% serves a majority-minority town, it's important for me 00:52:35.520 --> 00:52:40.470 align:middle line:84% to take into consideration the needs of my constituents 00:52:40.470 --> 00:52:45.530 align:middle line:84% and the demographics of the Randolph community. 00:52:45.530 --> 00:52:51.950 align:middle line:84% For example, Congresswoman Pressley was one of the first 00:52:51.950 --> 00:52:57.170 align:middle line:84% who encouraged data collection for COVID. 00:52:57.170 --> 00:53:02.000 align:middle line:84% This was beneficial to Randolph, with the understanding 00:53:02.000 --> 00:53:05.280 align:middle line:84% that we have majority-minority community. 00:53:05.280 --> 00:53:08.060 align:middle line:84% So with that data collection, we were 00:53:08.060 --> 00:53:14.510 align:middle line:84% able to be proactive and advocate for a testing site. 00:53:14.510 --> 00:53:19.640 align:middle line:84% And currently, we have the most progressive vaccination sites 00:53:19.640 --> 00:53:21.120 align:middle line:90% in Massachusetts. 00:53:21.120 --> 00:53:24.350 align:middle line:84% And this is because it was strongly 00:53:24.350 --> 00:53:28.160 align:middle line:84% encouraged to collect data of those 00:53:28.160 --> 00:53:32.765 align:middle line:90% who were suffering from COVID. 00:53:32.765 --> 00:53:39.310 align:middle line:90% 00:53:39.310 --> 00:53:41.380 align:middle line:84% I would be lying if I didn't mention 00:53:41.380 --> 00:53:45.430 align:middle line:84% that I'm really concerned about Randolph 00:53:45.430 --> 00:53:49.810 align:middle line:84% remaining in a majority-minority district. 00:53:49.810 --> 00:53:52.390 align:middle line:84% We want to continue to go forward. 00:53:52.390 --> 00:53:54.340 align:middle line:90% We do not want to go backwards. 00:53:54.340 --> 00:54:00.700 align:middle line:84% There have been so much progressive mobility 00:54:00.700 --> 00:54:03.400 align:middle line:84% in the district since we had been placed 00:54:03.400 --> 00:54:05.350 align:middle line:84% in the majority-minority district, 00:54:05.350 --> 00:54:08.980 align:middle line:84% and we want to continue to build on that foundation. 00:54:08.980 --> 00:54:14.150 align:middle line:84% It has taken way too long for us to get to where we are today. 00:54:14.150 --> 00:54:16.010 align:middle line:90% Jesse. 00:54:16.010 --> 00:54:17.570 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Katrina. 00:54:17.570 --> 00:54:20.540 align:middle line:84% Let me echo on the House district first-- 00:54:20.540 --> 00:54:22.280 align:middle line:90% on the US House district first-- 00:54:22.280 --> 00:54:25.460 align:middle line:84% that I believe the people of Randolph 00:54:25.460 --> 00:54:28.940 align:middle line:84% very much want to stay in city 8 with Ayanna Pressley 00:54:28.940 --> 00:54:30.170 align:middle line:90% as our representative. 00:54:30.170 --> 00:54:32.420 align:middle line:84% And I want to address the term, cohesive, 00:54:32.420 --> 00:54:35.970 align:middle line:84% that the previous speaker mentioned. 00:54:35.970 --> 00:54:40.310 align:middle line:84% I work in Cambridge, in the labs in the Cambridge-Kendall area. 00:54:40.310 --> 00:54:41.780 align:middle line:84% And before the pandemic at least, 00:54:41.780 --> 00:54:45.950 align:middle line:84% I used to bicycle from Randolph to that area, 00:54:45.950 --> 00:54:49.070 align:middle line:84% entirely within the district through Milton and Boston, 00:54:49.070 --> 00:54:51.710 align:middle line:90% and then Cambridge. 00:54:51.710 --> 00:54:54.770 align:middle line:84% That is entirely the city's 7th district. 00:54:54.770 --> 00:54:56.270 align:middle line:84% So even though it's long and skinny, 00:54:56.270 --> 00:54:58.685 align:middle line:84% it very much is cohesive for myself, who works 00:54:58.685 --> 00:54:59.810 align:middle line:90% in the healthcare industry. 00:54:59.810 --> 00:55:02.780 align:middle line:84% And I believe that's true for many thousands of people 00:55:02.780 --> 00:55:05.467 align:middle line:84% in Randolph who work in the same industry who commute up 00:55:05.467 --> 00:55:06.050 align:middle line:90% that corridor. 00:55:06.050 --> 00:55:08.120 align:middle line:84% Even if you go by T, you're almost entirely 00:55:08.120 --> 00:55:10.760 align:middle line:84% in the district all day for work and for home. 00:55:10.760 --> 00:55:12.230 align:middle line:90% And we like it. 00:55:12.230 --> 00:55:14.977 align:middle line:90% We'd like it to stay that way. 00:55:14.977 --> 00:55:17.060 align:middle line:84% On the state Senate district, I heard your comment 00:55:17.060 --> 00:55:19.190 align:middle line:90% earlier about drawing a map. 00:55:19.190 --> 00:55:23.330 align:middle line:84% I would like to propose a map where 00:55:23.330 --> 00:55:26.870 align:middle line:84% the Randolph is included in a majority-minority district. 00:55:26.870 --> 00:55:28.430 align:middle line:84% And I wonder when we can get access 00:55:28.430 --> 00:55:30.690 align:middle line:84% to the precinct-level demographic data 00:55:30.690 --> 00:55:32.540 align:middle line:90% so that we can do that. 00:55:32.540 --> 00:55:35.360 align:middle line:84% At the state House level, I've done exactly that, 00:55:35.360 --> 00:55:38.505 align:middle line:84% using estimates from the 2019 reports, 00:55:38.505 --> 00:55:40.880 align:middle line:84% and I sent that to the members of this committee by email 00:55:40.880 --> 00:55:46.580 align:middle line:84% and by mail to the chairs and to Senator Chang-Diaz. 00:55:46.580 --> 00:55:48.590 align:middle line:84% The last time I spoke, a few weeks ago, 00:55:48.590 --> 00:55:52.820 align:middle line:84% we proposed that Randolph be a Randolph-centric state rep 00:55:52.820 --> 00:55:56.450 align:middle line:84% district with three precincts of Milton, which 00:55:56.450 --> 00:55:59.030 align:middle line:84% would make it strongly majority-minority, 00:55:59.030 --> 00:56:02.000 align:middle line:84% and the 21st majority-minority district. 00:56:02.000 --> 00:56:04.550 align:middle line:84% The committee had several comments on that, 00:56:04.550 --> 00:56:08.405 align:middle line:84% primarily focusing on that those precincts of Milton 00:56:08.405 --> 00:56:11.900 align:middle line:84% are already in a majority-minority district, 00:56:11.900 --> 00:56:16.430 align:middle line:84% and challenged me to draw a majority-minority district 00:56:16.430 --> 00:56:18.650 align:middle line:84% centered on Randolph that did not include Milton 00:56:18.650 --> 00:56:22.040 align:middle line:84% and hence did not require redistricting Milton in Boston. 00:56:22.040 --> 00:56:25.100 align:middle line:84% I did so in my follow-up email, and let 00:56:25.100 --> 00:56:27.290 align:middle line:90% me summarize the key results. 00:56:27.290 --> 00:56:29.870 align:middle line:84% If you take Randolph, which has the population, not quite 00:56:29.870 --> 00:56:34.670 align:middle line:84% enough to make the cut-off for a state rep district, 00:56:34.670 --> 00:56:38.930 align:middle line:84% you need about three precincts from any neighboring towns. 00:56:38.930 --> 00:56:43.460 align:middle line:84% If you add in precincts from Stoughton, Avon, or Holbrook, 00:56:43.460 --> 00:56:47.330 align:middle line:84% at least according to the 2019 census data, 00:56:47.330 --> 00:56:49.430 align:middle line:84% you do end up with a majority-minority district, 00:56:49.430 --> 00:56:55.550 align:middle line:84% ranging in minority population from 55% to 58%. 00:56:55.550 --> 00:56:57.500 align:middle line:84% I consider those to be fairly safe. 00:56:57.500 --> 00:57:00.368 align:middle line:84% In other words, even if the estimates from 2019 00:57:00.368 --> 00:57:01.910 align:middle line:84% are changed a little bit, it'll still 00:57:01.910 --> 00:57:05.870 align:middle line:84% be majority-minority district, and into the future as well. 00:57:05.870 --> 00:57:10.820 align:middle line:84% I exclude, in the analysis that I sent to the committee, 00:57:10.820 --> 00:57:13.760 align:middle line:84% doing the same with precincts from Canton or Braintree, 00:57:13.760 --> 00:57:17.150 align:middle line:84% because it's lower percentage, number one, and number two, 00:57:17.150 --> 00:57:20.870 align:middle line:84% it would split up a district where the incumbent represents 00:57:20.870 --> 00:57:24.268 align:middle line:84% the town that he lives in more or less in full. 00:57:24.268 --> 00:57:26.310 align:middle line:84% In other words, it would put Canton, for example, 00:57:26.310 --> 00:57:28.227 align:middle line:84% into the same situation that Randolph is now-- 00:57:28.227 --> 00:57:31.520 align:middle line:84% that it's split into two, and their representative 00:57:31.520 --> 00:57:34.340 align:middle line:84% doesn't live and doesn't represent the people with whom 00:57:34.340 --> 00:57:35.940 align:middle line:90% he shares the town in Canton. 00:57:35.940 --> 00:57:39.020 align:middle line:84% So I excluded Canton and Braintree for that reason. 00:57:39.020 --> 00:57:41.030 align:middle line:84% Stoughton, Holbrook, and Avon, I point out, 00:57:41.030 --> 00:57:43.380 align:middle line:84% are smaller towns which are already in that situation. 00:57:43.380 --> 00:57:45.320 align:middle line:84% In other words, they're not changing the situation. 00:57:45.320 --> 00:57:47.480 align:middle line:84% They are being represented by someone in Randolph. 00:57:47.480 --> 00:57:49.400 align:middle line:84% And I point out in my write-up all 00:57:49.400 --> 00:57:52.460 align:middle line:84% the demographic similarities and geographic similarities 00:57:52.460 --> 00:57:54.620 align:middle line:84% with those three proposed districts, 00:57:54.620 --> 00:57:58.280 align:middle line:84% and I encourage the Committee to look at those districts 00:57:58.280 --> 00:57:59.540 align:middle line:90% as our state rep district. 00:57:59.540 --> 00:58:01.410 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:58:01.410 --> 00:58:07.590 align:middle line:84% I also want to follow up with what Councilor Gordon mentioned 00:58:07.590 --> 00:58:10.740 align:middle line:84% when it comes to state rep, and understanding that Randolph is 00:58:10.740 --> 00:58:12.720 align:middle line:90% a majority-minority town-- 00:58:12.720 --> 00:58:15.330 align:middle line:84% currently, at least in the precincts that I work-- 00:58:15.330 --> 00:58:20.400 align:middle line:84% I live in, in Randolph, there are four precincts in Randolph 00:58:20.400 --> 00:58:22.830 align:middle line:84% that are represented by a state rep. 00:58:22.830 --> 00:58:26.910 align:middle line:84% And then, the state rep represents 00:58:26.910 --> 00:58:32.070 align:middle line:84% Marina Bay in Quincy, in the historical district in Quincy. 00:58:32.070 --> 00:58:34.800 align:middle line:84% And then, there's this large section on the Blue Hills 00:58:34.800 --> 00:58:36.850 align:middle line:90% where no one lives. 00:58:36.850 --> 00:58:43.380 align:middle line:84% So when I think about that disparity that's so imbalanced, 00:58:43.380 --> 00:58:46.380 align:middle line:90% it does not help Randolph. 00:58:46.380 --> 00:58:48.240 align:middle line:84% And I think about Randolph needs, 00:58:48.240 --> 00:58:52.560 align:middle line:84% and are we getting our needs met because of those district 00:58:52.560 --> 00:58:53.190 align:middle line:90% lines. 00:58:53.190 --> 00:58:54.640 align:middle line:90% So I just want to mention that. 00:58:54.640 --> 00:58:57.780 align:middle line:84% And lastly, Jesse and I just want 00:58:57.780 --> 00:59:01.800 align:middle line:84% to talk about the state Senate rep in hopes 00:59:01.800 --> 00:59:04.680 align:middle line:84% that we could also look at making 00:59:04.680 --> 00:59:08.190 align:middle line:84% that a majority-minority district as well. 00:59:08.190 --> 00:59:12.390 align:middle line:84% We know that it's very difficult when it comes to Randolph 00:59:12.390 --> 00:59:13.830 align:middle line:90% in making the lines. 00:59:13.830 --> 00:59:18.240 align:middle line:84% Currently, Randolph is in a district with Avon, Braintree, 00:59:18.240 --> 00:59:22.680 align:middle line:84% Canton, Milton, Randolph, Sharon, Stoughton, and East 00:59:22.680 --> 00:59:27.540 align:middle line:84% Bridgewater, and West Bridgewater. 00:59:27.540 --> 00:59:33.060 align:middle line:84% And a couple of thoughts are, skipping Quincy and adding 00:59:33.060 --> 00:59:37.950 align:middle line:84% Western Milton, plus Mattapan, Randolph, 00:59:37.950 --> 00:59:41.280 align:middle line:90% and Brockton is a possibility. 00:59:41.280 --> 00:59:44.670 align:middle line:84% Or maybe-- I know we have to look at the 2020 census. 00:59:44.670 --> 00:59:46.830 align:middle line:90% We don't have a clear idea-- 00:59:46.830 --> 00:59:48.990 align:middle line:84% no one has a clear idea as of yet, 00:59:48.990 --> 00:59:51.330 align:middle line:84% because we're still trying to figure out 00:59:51.330 --> 00:59:55.260 align:middle line:84% precincts and the numbers when it comes to the census. 00:59:55.260 --> 00:59:58.410 align:middle line:84% But another possibility that we were playing around with 00:59:58.410 --> 01:00:02.580 align:middle line:84% is Randolph, Brockton, Holbrook, Avon, Stoughton, 01:00:02.580 --> 01:00:06.870 align:middle line:90% and pieces of Braintree. 01:00:06.870 --> 01:00:12.780 align:middle line:84% Just trying to make sure that we are successful in looking 01:00:12.780 --> 01:00:17.070 align:middle line:84% at an attempt of making a majority-minority district 01:00:17.070 --> 01:00:20.550 align:middle line:90% for state Senate. 01:00:20.550 --> 01:00:23.430 align:middle line:84% Yes, and my plan is to write up maps, 01:00:23.430 --> 01:00:25.533 align:middle line:84% as the Committee suggested for others 01:00:25.533 --> 01:00:27.450 align:middle line:84% and as I've done for the state House district, 01:00:27.450 --> 01:00:29.820 align:middle line:84% for the state Senate district, too, 01:00:29.820 --> 01:00:32.413 align:middle line:84% with the numbers from the 2019 census for the whole town, 01:00:32.413 --> 01:00:34.080 align:middle line:84% where we don't have the precinct splits. 01:00:34.080 --> 01:00:36.270 align:middle line:84% We're very close to majority-minority 01:00:36.270 --> 01:00:38.700 align:middle line:84% in both the districts that Councilor Huff-Larmond 01:00:38.700 --> 01:00:41.970 align:middle line:84% described, which is Randolph, Brockton, up through Milton 01:00:41.970 --> 01:00:44.010 align:middle line:84% to Mattapan, or Randolph, Brockton, 01:00:44.010 --> 01:00:47.220 align:middle line:84% and the surrounding towns between us and Brockton, 01:00:47.220 --> 01:00:48.870 align:middle line:90% and to the east and west. 01:00:48.870 --> 01:00:49.985 align:middle line:90% They're very close to 50%. 01:00:49.985 --> 01:00:52.360 align:middle line:84% We can't know for sure until we get the precinct numbers, 01:00:52.360 --> 01:00:55.590 align:middle line:84% so we're looking forward to submitting that at that time. 01:00:55.590 --> 01:00:59.880 align:middle line:84% Let me add that we heard from the Reverend that that spine-- 01:00:59.880 --> 01:01:01.050 align:middle line:90% the crooked spine of-- 01:01:01.050 --> 01:01:04.530 align:middle line:84% you extend that a little bit up to Route 28, 01:01:04.530 --> 01:01:08.790 align:middle line:84% you could definitely include us into that majority-minority 01:01:08.790 --> 01:01:09.720 align:middle line:90% Senate race. 01:01:09.720 --> 01:01:12.045 align:middle line:90% Thank you so much. 01:01:12.045 --> 01:01:13.670 align:middle line:84% Let me say I appreciate your testimony, 01:01:13.670 --> 01:01:15.850 align:middle line:84% and I appreciate what you're trying to go. 01:01:15.850 --> 01:01:17.290 align:middle line:84% It does come down to the numbers, 01:01:17.290 --> 01:01:22.000 align:middle line:84% and whether you can really connect enough of Mattapan 01:01:22.000 --> 01:01:25.000 align:middle line:84% into Brockton and Milton, and so forth. 01:01:25.000 --> 01:01:27.730 align:middle line:90% You end up with a lot of people. 01:01:27.730 --> 01:01:31.480 align:middle line:84% The districts have to have a certain size. 01:01:31.480 --> 01:01:33.400 align:middle line:84% And of course, we also have to consider 01:01:33.400 --> 01:01:36.730 align:middle line:84% the objectives we're trying to achieve in Boston, 01:01:36.730 --> 01:01:39.610 align:middle line:90% so it's a puzzle. 01:01:39.610 --> 01:01:43.360 align:middle line:84% But rest assured, we're looking at all the ways 01:01:43.360 --> 01:01:47.350 align:middle line:84% to assemble that puzzle and very much have the ideas that you're 01:01:47.350 --> 01:01:49.110 align:middle line:90% raising in mind. 01:01:49.110 --> 01:01:50.670 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:01:50.670 --> 01:01:54.567 align:middle line:84% So other questions or comments from members of the Committee? 01:01:54.567 --> 01:01:57.257 align:middle line:90% 01:01:57.257 --> 01:01:59.090 align:middle line:84% I want to thank you both for your testimony. 01:01:59.090 --> 01:02:01.670 align:middle line:84% We look forward to working with you 01:02:01.670 --> 01:02:07.310 align:middle line:84% and look forward to hearing from you more specific ideas 01:02:07.310 --> 01:02:08.840 align:middle line:90% as the data comes out. 01:02:08.840 --> 01:02:12.202 align:middle line:84% Let me just say, of course, as you probably know, 01:02:12.202 --> 01:02:13.910 align:middle line:84% the real numbers will come out in August. 01:02:13.910 --> 01:02:16.880 align:middle line:84% We hope to see them on August 16. 01:02:16.880 --> 01:02:20.540 align:middle line:84% The other thing is, you do have sites like Dave's Redistricting 01:02:20.540 --> 01:02:22.400 align:middle line:84% and other sites that are listed and linked 01:02:22.400 --> 01:02:26.000 align:middle line:84% from our website, which allow you 01:02:26.000 --> 01:02:33.230 align:middle line:84% to use the data from the 2015 through 2019 census 01:02:33.230 --> 01:02:35.770 align:middle line:84% American Community Survey, which does 01:02:35.770 --> 01:02:37.820 align:middle line:90% exist at the precinct level. 01:02:37.820 --> 01:02:41.060 align:middle line:84% So that'll give you some ideas and some ability to experiment, 01:02:41.060 --> 01:02:43.580 align:middle line:84% and we'd definitely [INAUDIBLE] hear the results 01:02:43.580 --> 01:02:46.510 align:middle line:90% of your thinking on that. 01:02:46.510 --> 01:02:47.210 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:02:47.210 --> 01:02:47.960 align:middle line:90% That sounds great. 01:02:47.960 --> 01:02:48.460 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:02:48.460 --> 01:02:51.070 align:middle line:90% 01:02:51.070 --> 01:02:52.900 align:middle line:90% OK. 01:02:52.900 --> 01:02:55.540 align:middle line:90% Let me see who's next. 01:02:55.540 --> 01:02:57.880 align:middle line:84% I do believe we have a couple more-- 01:02:57.880 --> 01:03:01.140 align:middle line:84% Councilor Julia Mejia from Boston is here. 01:03:01.140 --> 01:03:02.340 align:middle line:90% Councilor? 01:03:02.340 --> 01:03:04.060 align:middle line:90% Can we get her on the line? 01:03:04.060 --> 01:03:08.760 align:middle line:90% 01:03:08.760 --> 01:03:11.800 align:middle line:84% Senator, while we're waiting for her, if it's OK with you, 01:03:11.800 --> 01:03:14.300 align:middle line:84% there's a couple of members who have jumped on here that I'd 01:03:14.300 --> 01:03:16.190 align:middle line:90% like to recognize. 01:03:16.190 --> 01:03:17.450 align:middle line:90% Please. 01:03:17.450 --> 01:03:21.200 align:middle line:84% I'd like to recognize the gentleman from Worcester, 01:03:21.200 --> 01:03:23.570 align:middle line:84% Representative John Mahoney, has joined us. 01:03:23.570 --> 01:03:27.290 align:middle line:84% And the gentleman from Duxbury, Josh Cutler, has joined us. 01:03:27.290 --> 01:03:30.240 align:middle line:90% Thank you both for joining us. 01:03:30.240 --> 01:03:31.680 align:middle line:90% Thank you for that. 01:03:31.680 --> 01:03:34.110 align:middle line:84% Councilor, I want to thank you for your patience, 01:03:34.110 --> 01:03:36.571 align:middle line:84% and we look forward to your testimony. 01:03:36.571 --> 01:03:39.340 align:middle line:90% 01:03:39.340 --> 01:03:39.970 align:middle line:90% Good morning. 01:03:39.970 --> 01:03:41.560 align:middle line:90% Can you hear me and see me? 01:03:41.560 --> 01:03:43.120 align:middle line:84% Yup, we can hear you and see you. 01:03:43.120 --> 01:03:44.300 align:middle line:90% OK, good morning, all. 01:03:44.300 --> 01:03:47.350 align:middle line:84% Thank you so very much for hosting this hearing and all 01:03:47.350 --> 01:03:48.760 align:middle line:90% of your hard work. 01:03:48.760 --> 01:03:51.490 align:middle line:84% I'm really looking forward to this round 01:03:51.490 --> 01:03:53.210 align:middle line:84% and being a part of the conversation, 01:03:53.210 --> 01:03:55.180 align:middle line:84% so really, I'm grateful for the opportunity 01:03:55.180 --> 01:03:57.190 align:middle line:90% to be here with you all. 01:03:57.190 --> 01:04:01.000 align:middle line:84% As the first Afro-Latina to represent on the Boston City 01:04:01.000 --> 01:04:01.630 align:middle line:90% Council-- 01:04:01.630 --> 01:04:04.360 align:middle line:84% and actually the first person elected 01:04:04.360 --> 01:04:08.080 align:middle line:90% was Councilor Pressley's seat. 01:04:08.080 --> 01:04:12.100 align:middle line:84% So it's an honor to hold the seat that she left behind. 01:04:12.100 --> 01:04:15.400 align:middle line:84% I understand the importance of empowering communities of color 01:04:15.400 --> 01:04:18.400 align:middle line:84% and providing equitable representation. 01:04:18.400 --> 01:04:21.760 align:middle line:84% Having grown up with very limited representation, which 01:04:21.760 --> 01:04:25.970 align:middle line:84% has impacted various communities and our outcomes, 01:04:25.970 --> 01:04:30.880 align:middle line:84% whether it be through education, socioeconomic empowerment, 01:04:30.880 --> 01:04:33.040 align:middle line:84% there's just been a lot of issues 01:04:33.040 --> 01:04:35.620 align:middle line:84% that I have seen, growing up here in the city of Boston, 01:04:35.620 --> 01:04:38.300 align:middle line:84% and so representation does matter. 01:04:38.300 --> 01:04:39.880 align:middle line:84% One thing that I've always said is 01:04:39.880 --> 01:04:43.630 align:middle line:84% that we are resource-rich but coordination-poor. 01:04:43.630 --> 01:04:45.670 align:middle line:84% And frequently, people who rely on their 01:04:45.670 --> 01:04:50.110 align:middle line:84% elected officials to connect them to necessary resources-- 01:04:50.110 --> 01:04:53.000 align:middle line:90% it's hard to bridge that gap. 01:04:53.000 --> 01:04:56.620 align:middle line:84% And so when your elected are from your community 01:04:56.620 --> 01:05:00.370 align:middle line:84% or don't speak the same language, et cetera, 01:05:00.370 --> 01:05:03.760 align:middle line:84% it could be very difficult to not just get the services 01:05:03.760 --> 01:05:07.930 align:middle line:84% that you need, but to have people representing 01:05:07.930 --> 01:05:09.790 align:middle line:84% on these issues that matter most to you 01:05:09.790 --> 01:05:14.170 align:middle line:84% and to be civically engaged just generally. 01:05:14.170 --> 01:05:16.360 align:middle line:84% Over the past decade, the 7th has 01:05:16.360 --> 01:05:19.360 align:middle line:84% become one of the Massachusetts' fastest-growing districts. 01:05:19.360 --> 01:05:22.390 align:middle line:84% While the growth has helped prevent Massachusetts 01:05:22.390 --> 01:05:24.920 align:middle line:84% from losing a congressional seat after the census, 01:05:24.920 --> 01:05:26.380 align:middle line:84% it now means that the district will 01:05:26.380 --> 01:05:30.310 align:middle line:84% have to be drawn differently to keep things equal, 01:05:30.310 --> 01:05:35.200 align:middle line:84% given how critical this district has been not only in keeping 01:05:35.200 --> 01:05:38.530 align:middle line:84% representation in Congress but also providing people 01:05:38.530 --> 01:05:41.380 align:middle line:84% of color representation in Massachusetts as well. 01:05:41.380 --> 01:05:45.130 align:middle line:84% And it's critical that that character is preserved. 01:05:45.130 --> 01:05:49.420 align:middle line:84% As a representative of the whole entire city of Boston, 01:05:49.420 --> 01:05:52.150 align:middle line:84% a few key things that we'd like to advocate for 01:05:52.150 --> 01:05:56.320 align:middle line:84% is that we do not divide Boston further. 01:05:56.320 --> 01:06:00.760 align:middle line:84% Already we're split between the 7th 01:06:00.760 --> 01:06:03.340 align:middle line:84% and 8th congressional districts, which should not 01:06:03.340 --> 01:06:06.080 align:middle line:90% be split into three or more. 01:06:06.080 --> 01:06:08.080 align:middle line:84% Communities and neighborhoods of color in Boston 01:06:08.080 --> 01:06:10.690 align:middle line:90% should remain a whole district. 01:06:10.690 --> 01:06:13.510 align:middle line:84% Other cities and towns with predominantly people-of-color 01:06:13.510 --> 01:06:17.980 align:middle line:84% communities like Randolph, Chelsea, Everett, and Cambridge 01:06:17.980 --> 01:06:20.170 align:middle line:84% should remain in the district as well. 01:06:20.170 --> 01:06:24.250 align:middle line:84% Because what we see is when people are living 01:06:24.250 --> 01:06:27.460 align:middle line:84% the realities, there are some uniform issues 01:06:27.460 --> 01:06:30.310 align:middle line:84% that are happening across the state, 01:06:30.310 --> 01:06:33.010 align:middle line:84% and more specifically around the congressional 7 01:06:33.010 --> 01:06:40.390 align:middle line:84% that we can all relate to and work in collaboration 01:06:40.390 --> 01:06:44.830 align:middle line:84% around building political power as well as also thinking about, 01:06:44.830 --> 01:06:48.400 align:middle line:84% how can we address these issues as a whole. 01:06:48.400 --> 01:06:53.350 align:middle line:84% I also would like to advocate and support the comments 01:06:53.350 --> 01:06:57.010 align:middle line:84% of Minister Peterson earlier in regards 01:06:57.010 --> 01:07:03.250 align:middle line:84% to adding a seat for more representation, a Black Senate 01:07:03.250 --> 01:07:05.140 align:middle line:90% seat in particular. 01:07:05.140 --> 01:07:07.150 align:middle line:84% I think that we need representation 01:07:07.150 --> 01:07:13.240 align:middle line:84% at all levels of government and would really highly recommend 01:07:13.240 --> 01:07:16.520 align:middle line:84% that that is also taken into consideration. 01:07:16.520 --> 01:07:18.610 align:middle line:84% And I think while I still have the floor, 01:07:18.610 --> 01:07:20.852 align:middle line:90% I want to just be really-- 01:07:20.852 --> 01:07:22.810 align:middle line:84% I just, kind of, want to offer something for us 01:07:22.810 --> 01:07:25.780 align:middle line:84% to think about as we move forward in these discussions, 01:07:25.780 --> 01:07:28.510 align:middle line:84% and I know that we're in this moment. 01:07:28.510 --> 01:07:31.210 align:middle line:84% But if there's anything that I have learned here, 01:07:31.210 --> 01:07:33.490 align:middle line:84% it's that those who are living the realities 01:07:33.490 --> 01:07:36.820 align:middle line:84% and doing the work are usually the least informed 01:07:36.820 --> 01:07:38.300 align:middle line:90% about these processes. 01:07:38.300 --> 01:07:41.710 align:middle line:84% And I think that we can all do a better job about educating 01:07:41.710 --> 01:07:46.000 align:middle line:84% the community about what's at stake with the census 01:07:46.000 --> 01:07:48.670 align:middle line:84% and how all these decisions are being made. 01:07:48.670 --> 01:07:50.560 align:middle line:84% I think that that will go a long way 01:07:50.560 --> 01:07:54.680 align:middle line:84% in terms of just civic engagement and education. 01:07:54.680 --> 01:07:57.490 align:middle line:84% So I think that as these conversations continue 01:07:57.490 --> 01:08:02.560 align:middle line:84% to happen, that we can learn from this 01:08:02.560 --> 01:08:09.070 align:middle line:84% and figure out how we can engage folks more intentionally, 01:08:09.070 --> 01:08:12.490 align:middle line:84% so that they can advocate for the type of redistricting that 01:08:12.490 --> 01:08:15.700 align:middle line:84% will really reflect the diversity. 01:08:15.700 --> 01:08:19.090 align:middle line:84% I think that this moment in time calls 01:08:19.090 --> 01:08:25.149 align:middle line:84% for us to be intentional and deliberate about this moment 01:08:25.149 --> 01:08:29.170 align:middle line:84% to ensure that representation does not get watered down. 01:08:29.170 --> 01:08:32.470 align:middle line:84% I have seen the difference personally, 01:08:32.470 --> 01:08:35.859 align:middle line:84% what a difference it makes to have Congresswoman Ayanna 01:08:35.859 --> 01:08:39.380 align:middle line:84% Pressley representing us in Congress, 01:08:39.380 --> 01:08:43.069 align:middle line:84% from conversations around trauma, 01:08:43.069 --> 01:08:47.450 align:middle line:84% issues around criminal justice, issues around poverty. 01:08:47.450 --> 01:08:49.460 align:middle line:84% I just think that the issues that we're 01:08:49.460 --> 01:08:53.510 align:middle line:84% dealing with here even on a municipal level, 01:08:53.510 --> 01:08:57.680 align:middle line:84% I have seen them elevated in Congress in ways 01:08:57.680 --> 01:08:59.790 align:middle line:90% that I haven't seen before. 01:08:59.790 --> 01:09:04.970 align:middle line:84% So it's really important for us to be really thoughtful about 01:09:04.970 --> 01:09:08.330 align:middle line:84% not just having representation as a checking-off-the-box 01:09:08.330 --> 01:09:11.210 align:middle line:84% but really being intentional about who it is that 01:09:11.210 --> 01:09:14.899 align:middle line:84% we're electing and who's going to be fighting for us, 01:09:14.899 --> 01:09:18.060 align:middle line:84% both on the federal and state level and municipal level. 01:09:18.060 --> 01:09:20.840 align:middle line:84% So thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak, 01:09:20.840 --> 01:09:24.080 align:middle line:84% and I look forward to engaging on the 14th. 01:09:24.080 --> 01:09:26.810 align:middle line:84% So you know, I'll be there for that, Kevin. 01:09:26.810 --> 01:09:29.270 align:middle line:84% So thank you for the public invitation, 01:09:29.270 --> 01:09:31.760 align:middle line:84% and I would like to continue to be 01:09:31.760 --> 01:09:34.590 align:middle line:84% a partner in these discussions as we move forward. 01:09:34.590 --> 01:09:36.086 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 01:09:36.086 --> 01:09:38.520 align:middle line:84% I want to say thank you, Councilor, for your testimony. 01:09:38.520 --> 01:09:41.565 align:middle line:84% I very much look forward to working with you 01:09:41.565 --> 01:09:44.649 align:middle line:84% and continue to hear from you on these issues. 01:09:44.649 --> 01:09:47.640 align:middle line:84% I appreciate the perspective you bring. 01:09:47.640 --> 01:09:50.370 align:middle line:84% Are there other questions from or comments 01:09:50.370 --> 01:09:51.672 align:middle line:90% from members of the committee? 01:09:51.672 --> 01:09:56.300 align:middle line:90% 01:09:56.300 --> 01:10:01.375 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much, Councilor, again, for your testimony. 01:10:01.375 --> 01:10:04.248 align:middle line:84% I'm going to recognize at this time, Brian Howard, who 01:10:04.248 --> 01:10:06.165 align:middle line:84% is the Town Manager from the town of Randolph. 01:10:06.165 --> 01:10:19.320 align:middle line:90% 01:10:19.320 --> 01:10:19.820 align:middle line:90% All right. 01:10:19.820 --> 01:10:21.110 align:middle line:90% Just give me a second. 01:10:21.110 --> 01:10:25.640 align:middle line:84% I-- has me reintroduce myself into the mix 01:10:25.640 --> 01:10:27.200 align:middle line:90% here, so hold on a second. 01:10:27.200 --> 01:10:28.160 align:middle line:90% I apologize for that. 01:10:28.160 --> 01:10:33.190 align:middle line:84% I've never been brought into a webinar before. 01:10:33.190 --> 01:10:35.440 align:middle line:84% There's always a first experience. 01:10:35.440 --> 01:10:37.690 align:middle line:84% Yeah, usually, I'm the one letting folks on, 01:10:37.690 --> 01:10:41.190 align:middle line:90% so this is new for me. 01:10:41.190 --> 01:10:42.840 align:middle line:90% All right. 01:10:42.840 --> 01:10:48.540 align:middle line:84% First off, I can't support enough the commentary 01:10:48.540 --> 01:10:52.110 align:middle line:84% and the testimony of Congresswoman Pressley. 01:10:52.110 --> 01:10:56.670 align:middle line:84% So I'm not going to reiterate all of her fine points, 01:10:56.670 --> 01:11:00.600 align:middle line:84% except to say that she hit it straight on. 01:11:00.600 --> 01:11:03.900 align:middle line:90% She is 100% correct. 01:11:03.900 --> 01:11:12.270 align:middle line:84% I think the CD 7 should remain, as humanly possible, 01:11:12.270 --> 01:11:15.450 align:middle line:90% set up as it currently is. 01:11:15.450 --> 01:11:20.700 align:middle line:84% And I'm going to break that down a little bit into our comments 01:11:20.700 --> 01:11:25.560 align:middle line:84% about a state representative district. 01:11:25.560 --> 01:11:29.850 align:middle line:84% I certainly appreciate the difficult decisions 01:11:29.850 --> 01:11:31.410 align:middle line:90% that your Committee has. 01:11:31.410 --> 01:11:34.120 align:middle line:90% This is never an easy process. 01:11:34.120 --> 01:11:36.750 align:middle line:84% I have been involved in Randolph government 01:11:36.750 --> 01:11:40.410 align:middle line:90% for close to 30 years. 01:11:40.410 --> 01:11:45.100 align:middle line:84% My thoughts on this topic were the same in 1990. 01:11:45.100 --> 01:11:47.880 align:middle line:84% There was a Patriot Ledger article in 2000 01:11:47.880 --> 01:11:53.220 align:middle line:84% and an editorial where they supported a one Randolph. 01:11:53.220 --> 01:11:57.240 align:middle line:84% Randolph has always been much different than the towns 01:11:57.240 --> 01:11:58.500 align:middle line:90% around it. 01:11:58.500 --> 01:12:01.890 align:middle line:84% We have historically been connected to, 01:12:01.890 --> 01:12:06.210 align:middle line:84% back in the '70s and '80s, Canton and Milton, and more so 01:12:06.210 --> 01:12:11.758 align:middle line:90% now with Milton and Quincy. 01:12:11.758 --> 01:12:13.800 align:middle line:84% These are communities that are much more affluent 01:12:13.800 --> 01:12:17.610 align:middle line:84% and have much different economic drivers. 01:12:17.610 --> 01:12:20.850 align:middle line:84% And those differences over the last 20 years 01:12:20.850 --> 01:12:22.350 align:middle line:90% have only increased. 01:12:22.350 --> 01:12:24.526 align:middle line:90% The gaps have only gotten wider. 01:12:24.526 --> 01:12:27.480 align:middle line:84% The issues-- and again, these are things that 01:12:27.480 --> 01:12:29.460 align:middle line:90% the Congresswoman talked about-- 01:12:29.460 --> 01:12:32.790 align:middle line:84% the issues of racial equity, the wealth gap, 01:12:32.790 --> 01:12:34.710 align:middle line:90% educational opportunities. 01:12:34.710 --> 01:12:36.720 align:middle line:84% Over the last 15 to 20 years, what 01:12:36.720 --> 01:12:40.050 align:middle line:84% drives so much of the Randolph economy 01:12:40.050 --> 01:12:43.710 align:middle line:84% is immigrants' small businesses, healthcare-- we 01:12:43.710 --> 01:12:50.800 align:middle line:84% were at number three in COVID for the first six weeks or so. 01:12:50.800 --> 01:12:56.250 align:middle line:84% If not for the efforts of Congresswoman Presley, 01:12:56.250 --> 01:12:58.950 align:middle line:84% we couldn't get a testing site, because we don't 01:12:58.950 --> 01:13:00.480 align:middle line:90% have a healthcare provider. 01:13:00.480 --> 01:13:05.250 align:middle line:84% We are 35,000 strong, but we don't have a healthcare 01:13:05.250 --> 01:13:09.780 align:middle line:84% provider, so we were not able to gear up and get 01:13:09.780 --> 01:13:12.300 align:middle line:84% a site, because the state kept saying that we 01:13:12.300 --> 01:13:15.790 align:middle line:90% had to have a health partner. 01:13:15.790 --> 01:13:19.570 align:middle line:84% Economic justice-- I think Randolph right now-- 01:13:19.570 --> 01:13:23.290 align:middle line:84% and it looks like, based on the last approval by the state, 01:13:23.290 --> 01:13:26.020 align:middle line:84% will have a trash transfer station being built right 01:13:26.020 --> 01:13:27.670 align:middle line:90% on its border. 01:13:27.670 --> 01:13:32.020 align:middle line:84% So all the traffic is going to go through Randolph 01:13:32.020 --> 01:13:34.780 align:middle line:90% to the Holbrook border. 01:13:34.780 --> 01:13:37.660 align:middle line:84% It still stuns me that this is happening. 01:13:37.660 --> 01:13:39.250 align:middle line:84% We've been fighting it for 10 years, 01:13:39.250 --> 01:13:45.250 align:middle line:84% but the environmental justice issue continues to be critical. 01:13:45.250 --> 01:13:49.870 align:middle line:84% You have the opportunity to keep both a community of interest 01:13:49.870 --> 01:13:52.930 align:middle line:84% together and keep a community whole. 01:13:52.930 --> 01:14:00.270 align:middle line:84% You had two members of our town council speak to the ability 01:14:00.270 --> 01:14:05.790 align:middle line:84% to take Randolph with part of Avon or part of Stoughton. 01:14:05.790 --> 01:14:09.270 align:middle line:84% There is no question that those would work. 01:14:09.270 --> 01:14:18.540 align:middle line:84% I think that there is a tremendous opportunity here. 01:14:18.540 --> 01:14:22.050 align:middle line:84% I think Randolph, for 30, 40 years, 01:14:22.050 --> 01:14:28.200 align:middle line:84% has certainly deserved to be its own rep district in particular. 01:14:28.200 --> 01:14:30.960 align:middle line:84% I can also tell you as somebody who served as the town clerk 01:14:30.960 --> 01:14:34.110 align:middle line:84% previously, having three-ballot styles-- 01:14:34.110 --> 01:14:36.840 align:middle line:84% some of them in the same polling location-- 01:14:36.840 --> 01:14:37.775 align:middle line:90% it gets confusing. 01:14:37.775 --> 01:14:39.400 align:middle line:84% It gets confusing for the poll workers. 01:14:39.400 --> 01:14:41.860 align:middle line:84% It gets confusing for the voters. 01:14:41.860 --> 01:14:45.640 align:middle line:84% So I think anything we can do in that area is critical. 01:14:45.640 --> 01:14:51.630 align:middle line:84% So I thank you all for this opportunity to address you. 01:14:51.630 --> 01:14:54.990 align:middle line:84% I am more than happy to answer any questions that I can, 01:14:54.990 --> 01:14:59.490 align:middle line:84% and I cannot reiterate enough my support for Congresswoman 01:14:59.490 --> 01:15:02.400 align:middle line:84% Pressley's comments, and in particular, 01:15:02.400 --> 01:15:05.220 align:middle line:84% her leadership on behalf of the town of Randolph. 01:15:05.220 --> 01:15:14.940 align:middle line:90% 01:15:14.940 --> 01:15:18.990 align:middle line:84% And for some reason, I can't seem to hear folks. 01:15:18.990 --> 01:15:21.880 align:middle line:84% Mr. Chairman, I think you're muted. 01:15:21.880 --> 01:15:24.370 align:middle line:90% That would be why. 01:15:24.370 --> 01:15:26.560 align:middle line:90% That's on me. 01:15:26.560 --> 01:15:28.870 align:middle line:90% Thank you for your testimony. 01:15:28.870 --> 01:15:30.580 align:middle line:90% I appreciate it. 01:15:30.580 --> 01:15:33.629 align:middle line:84% And are there any questions from members of the Committee? 01:15:33.629 --> 01:15:37.850 align:middle line:90% 01:15:37.850 --> 01:15:39.660 align:middle line:90% Thank you, again. 01:15:39.660 --> 01:15:41.590 align:middle line:90% My pleasure. 01:15:41.590 --> 01:15:44.441 align:middle line:84% Is Councilor Scott here from Somerville? 01:15:44.441 --> 01:15:48.050 align:middle line:90% 01:15:48.050 --> 01:15:48.920 align:middle line:90% JT Scott? 01:15:48.920 --> 01:16:03.450 align:middle line:90% 01:16:03.450 --> 01:16:06.070 align:middle line:90% I see Councilor Scott coming on. 01:16:06.070 --> 01:16:08.840 align:middle line:84% I look forward to your testimony, Councilor. 01:16:08.840 --> 01:16:12.620 align:middle line:84% You're still on mute at this time. 01:16:12.620 --> 01:16:14.570 align:middle line:90% There you go. 01:16:14.570 --> 01:16:17.400 align:middle line:90% Hello. 01:16:17.400 --> 01:16:18.060 align:middle line:90% You're here. 01:16:18.060 --> 01:16:19.710 align:middle line:90% We can hear you and see you. 01:16:19.710 --> 01:16:21.990 align:middle line:90% Wonderful, wonderful. 01:16:21.990 --> 01:16:24.000 align:middle line:84% Well, thank you very much, Mr. Chair, 01:16:24.000 --> 01:16:29.010 align:middle line:84% and I also want to extend my extreme gratitude 01:16:29.010 --> 01:16:32.310 align:middle line:84% for both the representation and the service of Congresswoman 01:16:32.310 --> 01:16:36.210 align:middle line:84% Ayanna Pressley and Rep Uyterhoeven, who 01:16:36.210 --> 01:16:38.190 align:middle line:90% spoke earlier this evening. 01:16:38.190 --> 01:16:40.770 align:middle line:84% I'm JT Scott, the Ward 2 Councilor 01:16:40.770 --> 01:16:43.410 align:middle line:90% in the City of Somerville. 01:16:43.410 --> 01:16:49.400 align:middle line:84% And I represent a district that sits on many borders. 01:16:49.400 --> 01:16:53.100 align:middle line:84% My ward borders Cambridge on one side. 01:16:53.100 --> 01:16:58.230 align:middle line:84% It sits astride the boundaries of the 26th and 27th Middlesex 01:16:58.230 --> 01:17:02.820 align:middle line:84% district, and is right on the edge of the MA 7th. 01:17:02.820 --> 01:17:05.430 align:middle line:90% And I have to say-- 01:17:05.430 --> 01:17:08.520 align:middle line:84% I have to echo the sentiments that 01:17:08.520 --> 01:17:11.880 align:middle line:84% have been made several times here today 01:17:11.880 --> 01:17:16.860 align:middle line:84% in this hearing, that the struggles that 01:17:16.860 --> 01:17:22.230 align:middle line:84% unite many of the communities across MA 7 are shared 01:17:22.230 --> 01:17:24.513 align:middle line:84% struggles of environmental justice, 01:17:24.513 --> 01:17:28.390 align:middle line:84% of economic, racial, and social justice. 01:17:28.390 --> 01:17:32.370 align:middle line:84% And it has been a boom beyond description 01:17:32.370 --> 01:17:36.000 align:middle line:84% to have visionary leadership such as Congresswoman 01:17:36.000 --> 01:17:41.070 align:middle line:84% Pressley's, both representing us and bringing resources 01:17:41.070 --> 01:17:43.320 align:middle line:84% in from a federal level, but also connecting 01:17:43.320 --> 01:17:46.560 align:middle line:84% those communities with those shared struggles, 01:17:46.560 --> 01:17:52.110 align:middle line:84% connecting them in shared advocacy, whether it's 01:17:52.110 --> 01:17:56.370 align:middle line:84% transportation, Mass DOT funds and federal transportation 01:17:56.370 --> 01:17:59.340 align:middle line:84% funds to address some of these environmental justice 01:17:59.340 --> 01:18:02.790 align:middle line:84% issues along our transportation and corridors. 01:18:02.790 --> 01:18:10.980 align:middle line:84% But it's also important to keep us not only in the 7th, 01:18:10.980 --> 01:18:15.370 align:middle line:84% but to look at how Somerville is represented by these three 01:18:15.370 --> 01:18:19.920 align:middle line:84% House districts that very closely align 01:18:19.920 --> 01:18:22.420 align:middle line:84% with our communities of interest-- 01:18:22.420 --> 01:18:24.660 align:middle line:84% you know, the East Somerville district 01:18:24.660 --> 01:18:31.440 align:middle line:84% representing the 26th, the incredibly vibrant 27th, 01:18:31.440 --> 01:18:34.470 align:middle line:90% and the 34th as well. 01:18:34.470 --> 01:18:39.270 align:middle line:84% As we are a city of just 4 square miles and the most 01:18:39.270 --> 01:18:44.450 align:middle line:84% densely populated in the Commonwealth, 01:18:44.450 --> 01:18:46.040 align:middle line:84% we have an impact on our neighbors, 01:18:46.040 --> 01:18:47.550 align:middle line:84% and our neighbors impact us as well. 01:18:47.550 --> 01:18:51.170 align:middle line:84% So our ability have the shared representation, 01:18:51.170 --> 01:18:54.140 align:middle line:84% have the 77th that crosses those boundaries, 01:18:54.140 --> 01:18:57.830 align:middle line:84% and indeed having the 26th that crosses 01:18:57.830 --> 01:19:00.410 align:middle line:84% the boundary from Cambridge and Somerville 01:19:00.410 --> 01:19:02.930 align:middle line:84% is incredibly useful for ensuring 01:19:02.930 --> 01:19:05.240 align:middle line:84% that our communities have interconnected 01:19:05.240 --> 01:19:07.250 align:middle line:84% solutions and interconnected thinking 01:19:07.250 --> 01:19:09.320 align:middle line:90% at the legislative level. 01:19:09.320 --> 01:19:14.930 align:middle line:84% I'd also point out that for a city like Somerville, which, 01:19:14.930 --> 01:19:17.750 align:middle line:84% just like the city of Boston, has both at-large councilors 01:19:17.750 --> 01:19:20.930 align:middle line:84% and ward councilors, it's incredible to look 01:19:20.930 --> 01:19:23.390 align:middle line:84% at the makeup of our city council right now 01:19:23.390 --> 01:19:26.720 align:middle line:84% and see how the representatives from each ward 01:19:26.720 --> 01:19:32.360 align:middle line:84% do so closely reflect the shared lived experiences 01:19:32.360 --> 01:19:34.760 align:middle line:84% of the roughly 12,000 people that each of us 01:19:34.760 --> 01:19:38.390 align:middle line:84% represents, a little over 80,000 in the city of Somerville 01:19:38.390 --> 01:19:38.890 align:middle line:90% as well. 01:19:38.890 --> 01:19:40.670 align:middle line:90% So I would just-- 01:19:40.670 --> 01:19:44.750 align:middle line:84% I appreciate the challenges of this Committee's task 01:19:44.750 --> 01:19:47.240 align:middle line:84% in redistricting and would implore 01:19:47.240 --> 01:19:50.840 align:middle line:84% you to keep in mind those communities of interest 01:19:50.840 --> 01:19:55.340 align:middle line:84% and ensure that we can continue to keep these district 01:19:55.340 --> 01:19:59.900 align:middle line:84% boundaries as close to intact as we have right now, to ensure 01:19:59.900 --> 01:20:02.120 align:middle line:84% that Somerville remains in its entirety 01:20:02.120 --> 01:20:06.890 align:middle line:84% in the 7th congressional, and also to ensure that Somerville 01:20:06.890 --> 01:20:11.870 align:middle line:84% continues to have three House districts that represent us 01:20:11.870 --> 01:20:14.130 align:middle line:90% very well at the state level. 01:20:14.130 --> 01:20:16.890 align:middle line:84% So I thank you very much for your time. 01:20:16.890 --> 01:20:18.020 align:middle line:90% Happy to keep it brief. 01:20:18.020 --> 01:20:20.187 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:20:20.187 --> 01:20:21.395 align:middle line:90% Thank you so much, Councilor. 01:20:21.395 --> 01:20:22.697 align:middle line:90% I appreciate your testimony. 01:20:22.697 --> 01:20:24.530 align:middle line:84% Are there any questions for Councilor Scott? 01:20:24.530 --> 01:20:27.460 align:middle line:90% 01:20:27.460 --> 01:20:30.500 align:middle line:84% Councilor Scott, thank you so much for being with us. 01:20:30.500 --> 01:20:34.330 align:middle line:84% I'm now going to proceed down the list, the rest of the list, 01:20:34.330 --> 01:20:35.980 align:middle line:90% in order. 01:20:35.980 --> 01:20:38.830 align:middle line:84% I'm going to just-- so those people can feel ready, 01:20:38.830 --> 01:20:40.690 align:middle line:84% I'm going to read the next four names, 01:20:40.690 --> 01:20:42.490 align:middle line:84% but let's only recognize one at a time. 01:20:42.490 --> 01:20:46.090 align:middle line:84% I got Rene Mardones, Marisa Luse, Latifa Ziyad, and then 01:20:46.090 --> 01:20:47.470 align:middle line:90% I get to Beth Huang. 01:20:47.470 --> 01:20:49.540 align:middle line:84% Those are the next four that I'm going to call. 01:20:49.540 --> 01:20:50.740 align:middle line:90% So Rene Mardones, please. 01:20:50.740 --> 01:21:04.841 align:middle line:90% 01:21:04.841 --> 01:21:06.920 align:middle line:90% Do we have Rene? 01:21:06.920 --> 01:21:07.920 align:middle line:90% We do not. 01:21:07.920 --> 01:21:11.250 align:middle line:90% OK, if not, we will come back. 01:21:11.250 --> 01:21:12.495 align:middle line:90% Marisa Luse. 01:21:12.495 --> 01:21:18.420 align:middle line:90% 01:21:18.420 --> 01:21:19.710 align:middle line:90% Hey, Marisa. 01:21:19.710 --> 01:21:21.035 align:middle line:90% We're starting to see you. 01:21:21.035 --> 01:21:24.244 align:middle line:90% You're starting to appear, but-- 01:21:24.244 --> 01:21:25.030 align:middle line:90% there you go. 01:21:25.030 --> 01:21:29.310 align:middle line:90% 01:21:29.310 --> 01:21:30.570 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:21:30.570 --> 01:21:33.190 align:middle line:90% We can hear you and see you. 01:21:33.190 --> 01:21:37.260 align:middle line:84% Good morning, Joint Committee Chairs Representative Moran 01:21:37.260 --> 01:21:43.012 align:middle line:84% and Senator Brownsberger and its members. 01:21:43.012 --> 01:21:44.970 align:middle line:84% Good morning, and thank you for the opportunity 01:21:44.970 --> 01:21:46.690 align:middle line:90% to be heard this morning. 01:21:46.690 --> 01:21:51.210 align:middle line:84% My name is Marisa and I'm Roxbury resident and community 01:21:51.210 --> 01:21:52.320 align:middle line:90% advocate. 01:21:52.320 --> 01:21:53.970 align:middle line:90% I'm aware this morning-- 01:21:53.970 --> 01:21:56.310 align:middle line:84% I appeared this morning to testify 01:21:56.310 --> 01:21:59.760 align:middle line:84% on the importance of the redistricting process 01:21:59.760 --> 01:22:03.870 align:middle line:84% and how it can play a crucial role in continuing 01:22:03.870 --> 01:22:06.630 align:middle line:84% to improve our democracy by moving 01:22:06.630 --> 01:22:10.560 align:middle line:84% towards equity in representation and opportunities 01:22:10.560 --> 01:22:14.310 align:middle line:84% for communities to elect their own leaders. 01:22:14.310 --> 01:22:17.610 align:middle line:84% By doing so, moving towards improved equity 01:22:17.610 --> 01:22:22.320 align:middle line:84% and opportunities through the redistricting process can do 01:22:22.320 --> 01:22:26.160 align:middle line:84% much to re-establish and build trust with voters, 01:22:26.160 --> 01:22:30.900 align:middle line:84% improve voter engagement and education, 01:22:30.900 --> 01:22:36.120 align:middle line:84% and re-engage those who may currently and historically feel 01:22:36.120 --> 01:22:39.690 align:middle line:84% like the brightest minds and leaders from their communities 01:22:39.690 --> 01:22:45.060 align:middle line:84% cannot represent them in elected roles due to long-standing 01:22:45.060 --> 01:22:47.860 align:middle line:90% voting and migration patterns. 01:22:47.860 --> 01:22:50.340 align:middle line:84% It is my hope that you will consider 01:22:50.340 --> 01:22:52.920 align:middle line:84% the following recommendations as a part 01:22:52.920 --> 01:22:58.110 align:middle line:84% of your process for the 7th congressional district. 01:22:58.110 --> 01:23:00.450 align:middle line:84% It is critical that you recommend 01:23:00.450 --> 01:23:03.090 align:middle line:84% to build on opportunities for more 01:23:03.090 --> 01:23:09.240 align:middle line:84% majority-minority districts and coalition majority-minority 01:23:09.240 --> 01:23:15.060 align:middle line:84% districts, as this has been an effective and historic strategy 01:23:15.060 --> 01:23:19.080 align:middle line:84% for recognizing and empowering underserved and historically 01:23:19.080 --> 01:23:21.060 align:middle line:90% marginalized communities. 01:23:21.060 --> 01:23:25.260 align:middle line:84% It is critical to remain aware and align issues and challenges 01:23:25.260 --> 01:23:29.490 align:middle line:84% with the protection of community assets and resources 01:23:29.490 --> 01:23:31.800 align:middle line:90% within the district. 01:23:31.800 --> 01:23:35.880 align:middle line:84% It is critical that we create more equitable opportunities 01:23:35.880 --> 01:23:39.840 align:middle line:84% for BIPOC and immigrants to win elected seats, 01:23:39.840 --> 01:23:45.660 align:middle line:84% making legislative bodies more reflective and representative 01:23:45.660 --> 01:23:48.090 align:middle line:90% of the communities they serve. 01:23:48.090 --> 01:23:51.630 align:middle line:84% It is critical that we recognize that data matters, 01:23:51.630 --> 01:23:54.340 align:middle line:84% but it's not the only thing that matters. 01:23:54.340 --> 01:23:57.250 align:middle line:84% It is also the process in which the data is collected, 01:23:57.250 --> 01:23:59.220 align:middle line:90% analyzed, and shared. 01:23:59.220 --> 01:24:01.830 align:middle line:84% I respectfully urge this body to think 01:24:01.830 --> 01:24:04.890 align:middle line:84% about how we're factoring in the timing 01:24:04.890 --> 01:24:10.500 align:middle line:84% of the release of the census block and precinct-level data 01:24:10.500 --> 01:24:13.245 align:middle line:84% and its impact on its process, how 01:24:13.245 --> 01:24:17.610 align:middle line:84% we're accounting for historical and relevant gaps and hidden 01:24:17.610 --> 01:24:23.100 align:middle line:84% biases in the data, and how we are recognizing constituents, 01:24:23.100 --> 01:24:27.690 align:middle line:84% immigrants, and communities-of-color 01:24:27.690 --> 01:24:31.200 align:middle line:84% organizations and advocacy groups during the drawing 01:24:31.200 --> 01:24:32.880 align:middle line:90% process. 01:24:32.880 --> 01:24:34.950 align:middle line:84% It is critical for there to be more 01:24:34.950 --> 01:24:38.970 align:middle line:84% accountability and transparency in these processes 01:24:38.970 --> 01:24:45.930 align:middle line:84% and a process for evaluating how we're doing so, 01:24:45.930 --> 01:24:49.830 align:middle line:84% and that all levels of data are made available to the public 01:24:49.830 --> 01:24:53.730 align:middle line:84% for planning, advocacy, and decision-making. 01:24:53.730 --> 01:24:56.670 align:middle line:84% It is critical to be aware of the privilege 01:24:56.670 --> 01:25:00.090 align:middle line:84% that we hold to participate in processes like these, 01:25:00.090 --> 01:25:02.430 align:middle line:84% because they are residents who are working 01:25:02.430 --> 01:25:06.150 align:middle line:84% to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table, 01:25:06.150 --> 01:25:09.480 align:middle line:84% and who do not have access to the information 01:25:09.480 --> 01:25:13.180 align:middle line:84% to begin to even understand these processes. 01:25:13.180 --> 01:25:19.590 align:middle line:84% It is critical to continue to work as you have been-- 01:25:19.590 --> 01:25:25.950 align:middle line:84% it is critical to continue this historic work that you began 01:25:25.950 --> 01:25:30.360 align:middle line:84% a decade ago when you diligently met with non-partisan community 01:25:30.360 --> 01:25:35.880 align:middle line:84% and advocacy groups publicly in their communities to be heard, 01:25:35.880 --> 01:25:39.120 align:middle line:84% and to hear their various ideas from civic leaders 01:25:39.120 --> 01:25:42.730 align:middle line:90% across the Commonwealth. 01:25:42.730 --> 01:25:46.160 align:middle line:84% And although this task is not easy, 01:25:46.160 --> 01:25:50.860 align:middle line:84% we really appreciate the effort of this Committee 01:25:50.860 --> 01:25:57.920 align:middle line:84% and in its inclusion of community in this process. 01:25:57.920 --> 01:26:01.390 align:middle line:84% Thank you both for your leadership on the redistricting 01:26:01.390 --> 01:26:05.080 align:middle line:84% process and creating a space to be heard. 01:26:05.080 --> 01:26:08.110 align:middle line:84% Thank you for this opportunity to share my testimony. 01:26:08.110 --> 01:26:10.905 align:middle line:90% 01:26:10.905 --> 01:26:12.280 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for joining us, 01:26:12.280 --> 01:26:13.655 align:middle line:84% and thank you for your testimony. 01:26:13.655 --> 01:26:15.370 align:middle line:90% Much appreciated. 01:26:15.370 --> 01:26:18.160 align:middle line:84% Are there other comments or questions 01:26:18.160 --> 01:26:19.420 align:middle line:90% from members of the Committee? 01:26:19.420 --> 01:26:23.020 align:middle line:90% 01:26:23.020 --> 01:26:24.835 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony. 01:26:24.835 --> 01:26:25.540 align:middle line:90% We hear you. 01:26:25.540 --> 01:26:29.640 align:middle line:90% 01:26:29.640 --> 01:26:31.590 align:middle line:90% I've got Latifa Ziyad. 01:26:31.590 --> 01:26:36.670 align:middle line:90% 01:26:36.670 --> 01:26:38.611 align:middle line:90% I don't see her. 01:26:38.611 --> 01:26:39.520 align:middle line:90% You don't see her? 01:26:39.520 --> 01:26:40.890 align:middle line:90% OK. 01:26:40.890 --> 01:26:44.440 align:middle line:90% So now we go to Beth Huang. 01:26:44.440 --> 01:26:51.046 align:middle line:84% And Beth has got a panel, members of which are-- 01:26:51.046 --> 01:26:54.590 align:middle line:90% 01:26:54.590 --> 01:26:58.500 align:middle line:84% I've got Roxana Rivera, Cheryl Crawford, and Suzanne Lee. 01:26:58.500 --> 01:27:02.230 align:middle line:84% So let's promote all four of those at this time. 01:27:02.230 --> 01:27:27.430 align:middle line:90% 01:27:27.430 --> 01:27:28.290 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Beth. 01:27:28.290 --> 01:27:30.675 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Cheryl. 01:27:30.675 --> 01:27:31.860 align:middle line:90% We see you. 01:27:31.860 --> 01:27:34.720 align:middle line:90% 01:27:34.720 --> 01:27:35.370 align:middle line:90% Roxana-- 01:27:35.370 --> 01:27:38.540 align:middle line:90% I don't see you, Roxana. 01:27:38.540 --> 01:27:39.560 align:middle line:90% Oh, I'm sorry. 01:27:39.560 --> 01:27:43.350 align:middle line:84% I heard today that Roxana actually cannot join us today. 01:27:43.350 --> 01:27:44.330 align:middle line:90% OK, well, good. 01:27:44.330 --> 01:27:47.570 align:middle line:84% So we got three of you, Beth Huang, Cheryl Crawford, 01:27:47.570 --> 01:27:48.985 align:middle line:90% Suzanne Lee, welcome. 01:27:48.985 --> 01:27:50.360 align:middle line:84% Thank you for all the work you've 01:27:50.360 --> 01:27:52.730 align:middle line:84% been doing through this whole process, 01:27:52.730 --> 01:27:55.180 align:middle line:84% and we look forward to your testimony today. 01:27:55.180 --> 01:27:55.680 align:middle line:90% OK. 01:27:55.680 --> 01:27:57.700 align:middle line:90% Well, thank you so much. 01:27:57.700 --> 01:27:59.490 align:middle line:84% My name is Beth Huang, and I have 01:27:59.490 --> 01:28:03.480 align:middle line:84% the pleasure of leading the Drawing Democracy Coalition. 01:28:03.480 --> 01:28:07.110 align:middle line:84% We are dedicated to a fair redistricting process that 01:28:07.110 --> 01:28:11.200 align:middle line:84% achieves equitable outcomes, for people of color, 01:28:11.200 --> 01:28:13.200 align:middle line:84% young people, immigrants, and low-income people 01:28:13.200 --> 01:28:17.010 align:middle line:84% to have a fair shot at being represented authentically 01:28:17.010 --> 01:28:18.540 align:middle line:90% in the next decade. 01:28:18.540 --> 01:28:21.870 align:middle line:84% We are really interested in this particular hearing, 01:28:21.870 --> 01:28:25.500 align:middle line:84% because so many of the opportunities for increasing 01:28:25.500 --> 01:28:30.330 align:middle line:84% representation at the state House and state Senate 01:28:30.330 --> 01:28:34.770 align:middle line:84% districts occur in and around Greater Boston, 01:28:34.770 --> 01:28:38.100 align:middle line:84% because such a critical mass of BIPOC communities 01:28:38.100 --> 01:28:40.150 align:middle line:90% live in this metro area. 01:28:40.150 --> 01:28:43.740 align:middle line:84% And so one elephant in the room is 01:28:43.740 --> 01:28:46.590 align:middle line:84% that there are lots of retirements in the state 01:28:46.590 --> 01:28:51.210 align:middle line:84% Senate, which often leads to what I call the domino 01:28:51.210 --> 01:28:53.910 align:middle line:84% effect of many state reps running for state Senate seats, 01:28:53.910 --> 01:28:56.880 align:middle line:84% and it actually allows for an immense potential 01:28:56.880 --> 01:29:01.470 align:middle line:84% for changing and remixing districts 01:29:01.470 --> 01:29:03.790 align:middle line:84% with fewer political constraints than usual. 01:29:03.790 --> 01:29:07.170 align:middle line:84% So we're really looking forward to seeing the data 01:29:07.170 --> 01:29:11.910 align:middle line:84% from the Census Bureau as early as next month when the legacy 01:29:11.910 --> 01:29:16.140 align:middle line:84% format data comes out, to better understand the population 01:29:16.140 --> 01:29:19.960 align:middle line:84% shifts and changes that have happened in the past 10 years. 01:29:19.960 --> 01:29:21.600 align:middle line:84% So we've seen many districts that 01:29:21.600 --> 01:29:25.830 align:middle line:84% combine working-class immigrant communities 01:29:25.830 --> 01:29:29.820 align:middle line:84% with many residents of color with wealthier 01:29:29.820 --> 01:29:32.280 align:middle line:84% and whiter adjacent municipalities. 01:29:32.280 --> 01:29:35.640 align:middle line:84% And typically, the wealthier, whiter areas 01:29:35.640 --> 01:29:38.970 align:middle line:84% often elect the representative of their choice, 01:29:38.970 --> 01:29:42.210 align:middle line:84% leading to feelings of underrepresentation 01:29:42.210 --> 01:29:44.790 align:middle line:84% of parts of the district that have more immigrants, BIPOC 01:29:44.790 --> 01:29:49.980 align:middle line:84% residents, low-income people, and renters. 01:29:49.980 --> 01:29:52.980 align:middle line:84% And although the elected officials and their staff 01:29:52.980 --> 01:29:55.980 align:middle line:84% usually do try incredibly hard to represent 01:29:55.980 --> 01:29:59.490 align:middle line:84% all parts of their district, inevitably 01:29:59.490 --> 01:30:02.910 align:middle line:84% many elected officials spend more time where they live. 01:30:02.910 --> 01:30:07.830 align:middle line:84% That is normal, and they often get more votes 01:30:07.830 --> 01:30:10.590 align:middle line:84% from the wealthier area and more campaign contributions 01:30:10.590 --> 01:30:12.690 align:middle line:90% from that side of the district. 01:30:12.690 --> 01:30:17.100 align:middle line:84% And so no matter how hard people try 01:30:17.100 --> 01:30:19.050 align:middle line:84% to represent all parts of the district, 01:30:19.050 --> 01:30:20.910 align:middle line:84% we often find that the combination 01:30:20.910 --> 01:30:24.060 align:middle line:84% of lower-income, more immigrant-dense areas 01:30:24.060 --> 01:30:26.130 align:middle line:84% with wealthier, whiter areas does lead 01:30:26.130 --> 01:30:30.100 align:middle line:84% to underrepresentation, intentional or not. 01:30:30.100 --> 01:30:32.640 align:middle line:84% And so to get closer to the multiracial democracy 01:30:32.640 --> 01:30:36.720 align:middle line:84% that we want and can achieve in Massachusetts, drawing 01:30:36.720 --> 01:30:39.270 align:middle line:84% districts to ensure that the weight of the district 01:30:39.270 --> 01:30:41.760 align:middle line:84% is in the gateway city, or the weight of the district 01:30:41.760 --> 01:30:46.320 align:middle line:84% is in the more low-income, often historically redlined part 01:30:46.320 --> 01:30:48.690 align:middle line:84% of the district is incredibly important to the Drawing 01:30:48.690 --> 01:30:50.880 align:middle line:90% Democracy Coalition. 01:30:50.880 --> 01:30:53.760 align:middle line:84% And so a few top priorities for our coalition 01:30:53.760 --> 01:30:59.890 align:middle line:84% include remixing the areas in and around East Boston, 01:30:59.890 --> 01:31:02.040 align:middle line:84% Chelsea, Revere, and Everett, which-- 01:31:02.040 --> 01:31:06.210 align:middle line:84% we know that there is a lot of political opportunity there, 01:31:06.210 --> 01:31:09.060 align:middle line:84% and there are often many feelings 01:31:09.060 --> 01:31:12.480 align:middle line:84% of underrepresentation, often at the city level, 01:31:12.480 --> 01:31:17.340 align:middle line:84% but also at the state level in those state House and Senate 01:31:17.340 --> 01:31:18.750 align:middle line:90% districts. 01:31:18.750 --> 01:31:21.360 align:middle line:84% And then, although we don't have census data yet, 01:31:21.360 --> 01:31:23.910 align:middle line:84% population estimates suggest that drawing 01:31:23.910 --> 01:31:27.630 align:middle line:84% a third majority-BIPOC district in Boston itself 01:31:27.630 --> 01:31:32.700 align:middle line:84% or around Boston at the state Senate district level 01:31:32.700 --> 01:31:35.250 align:middle line:84% is important to the Drawing Democracy Coalition. 01:31:35.250 --> 01:31:39.000 align:middle line:84% And then, finally, maintaining a strong majority-BIPOC district 01:31:39.000 --> 01:31:39.900 align:middle line:90% that-- 01:31:39.900 --> 01:31:43.890 align:middle line:84% congressional district 7, which representative Pressley so 01:31:43.890 --> 01:31:47.370 align:middle line:84% graciously and fully represents, is 01:31:47.370 --> 01:31:52.380 align:middle line:84% really important to our coalition as the most important 01:31:52.380 --> 01:31:55.560 align:middle line:84% victory that we were able to achieve in the 2011 01:31:55.560 --> 01:31:56.878 align:middle line:90% round of redistricting. 01:31:56.878 --> 01:31:58.920 align:middle line:84% So those are three top priorities for the Drawing 01:31:58.920 --> 01:32:00.180 align:middle line:90% Democracy Coalition. 01:32:00.180 --> 01:32:03.450 align:middle line:84% Thanks so much for an open and transparent process. 01:32:03.450 --> 01:32:05.910 align:middle line:84% For the past many, many months, we've really 01:32:05.910 --> 01:32:08.310 align:middle line:84% enjoyed collaborating with you, and I'm 01:32:08.310 --> 01:32:11.520 align:middle line:84% looking forward to testimony from my colleagues. 01:32:11.520 --> 01:32:12.720 align:middle line:90% Thank you so much. 01:32:12.720 --> 01:32:14.167 align:middle line:90% Thank you again. 01:32:14.167 --> 01:32:15.750 align:middle line:84% Why don't we take all three panelists? 01:32:15.750 --> 01:32:17.560 align:middle line:84% And then, we could go to questions. 01:32:17.560 --> 01:32:21.390 align:middle line:90% So Cheryl Crawford? 01:32:21.390 --> 01:32:23.700 align:middle line:84% Good morning, Chairman Brownsberger and Chairman 01:32:23.700 --> 01:32:26.820 align:middle line:84% Moran, and the esteemed members of this Committee, 01:32:26.820 --> 01:32:30.000 align:middle line:84% and of course the honorable Ayanna Pressley. 01:32:30.000 --> 01:32:31.830 align:middle line:84% My name is Cheryl Clyburn Crawford. 01:32:31.830 --> 01:32:33.690 align:middle line:84% I'm the Executive Director of MassVOTE, 01:32:33.690 --> 01:32:36.270 align:middle line:84% and I'm excited to be here today to join this conversation 01:32:36.270 --> 01:32:38.430 align:middle line:90% regarding equitable districts. 01:32:38.430 --> 01:32:41.760 align:middle line:84% MassVOTE is a nonpartisan non-profit issue advocacy 01:32:41.760 --> 01:32:46.470 align:middle line:84% organization dedicated to voting rights and voter education. 01:32:46.470 --> 01:32:48.600 align:middle line:84% It is an honor to be speaking before you 01:32:48.600 --> 01:32:51.390 align:middle line:84% on the issue of redistricting in the state's 01:32:51.390 --> 01:32:53.700 align:middle line:90% 7th congressional district. 01:32:53.700 --> 01:32:56.250 align:middle line:84% 10 years ago, this committee did a superb job 01:32:56.250 --> 01:32:59.490 align:middle line:84% creating what is now the 7th congressional district. 01:32:59.490 --> 01:33:02.250 align:middle line:84% In doing so, they helped accomplish what we once 01:33:02.250 --> 01:33:04.020 align:middle line:90% thought was impossible-- 01:33:04.020 --> 01:33:08.340 align:middle line:84% empower a Black woman candidate to win a seat in Congress, 01:33:08.340 --> 01:33:12.210 align:middle line:84% something never done in this state's 200-plus-year history. 01:33:12.210 --> 01:33:14.220 align:middle line:84% This further empowered the voters 01:33:14.220 --> 01:33:15.780 align:middle line:84% of the 7th congressional district, 01:33:15.780 --> 01:33:18.000 align:middle line:84% too, as it put someone in power who 01:33:18.000 --> 01:33:21.480 align:middle line:84% better understood their own needs and experiences. 01:33:21.480 --> 01:33:24.090 align:middle line:84% With this in mind, the 7th congressional district 01:33:24.090 --> 01:33:27.240 align:middle line:84% should remain a majority-BIPOC district. 01:33:27.240 --> 01:33:30.810 align:middle line:84% It has set an excellent example of what representation should 01:33:30.810 --> 01:33:33.150 align:middle line:84% look like, not only in Massachusetts, 01:33:33.150 --> 01:33:36.510 align:middle line:84% but across the country, that must be preserved. 01:33:36.510 --> 01:33:39.510 align:middle line:84% At the state legislative level, more work 01:33:39.510 --> 01:33:41.700 align:middle line:84% can and should be done to make our democracy 01:33:41.700 --> 01:33:45.000 align:middle line:84% more representative, especially for Black and Brown, 01:33:45.000 --> 01:33:48.060 align:middle line:84% low-income, and immigrant residents. 01:33:48.060 --> 01:33:50.400 align:middle line:84% For example, communities currently 01:33:50.400 --> 01:33:52.200 align:middle line:84% in the 7th congressional district 01:33:52.200 --> 01:33:56.160 align:middle line:84% like Randolph and Chelsea are split up into multiple state 01:33:56.160 --> 01:33:58.050 align:middle line:90% representative districts. 01:33:58.050 --> 01:34:00.480 align:middle line:84% However, if these communities were to instead 01:34:00.480 --> 01:34:05.220 align:middle line:84% have one state representative to exclusively represent them, 01:34:05.220 --> 01:34:08.160 align:middle line:84% this would empower not only BIPOC candidates, 01:34:08.160 --> 01:34:09.900 align:middle line:90% but voters, too. 01:34:09.900 --> 01:34:12.180 align:middle line:84% BIPOC candidates within these communities 01:34:12.180 --> 01:34:14.580 align:middle line:84% would have a greater chance of winning office, 01:34:14.580 --> 01:34:17.070 align:middle line:84% and voters would have candidates more responsive 01:34:17.070 --> 01:34:20.040 align:middle line:84% to their specific needs, as they would represent 01:34:20.040 --> 01:34:22.860 align:middle line:90% only that individual community. 01:34:22.860 --> 01:34:28.260 align:middle line:84% And if these municipalities lack the necessary population 01:34:28.260 --> 01:34:31.770 align:middle line:84% count to form individual state representative districts, 01:34:31.770 --> 01:34:34.380 align:middle line:84% the municipalities should still be 01:34:34.380 --> 01:34:37.080 align:middle line:84% kept whole in the redistricting process, 01:34:37.080 --> 01:34:41.190 align:middle line:84% and they should be prioritized as majority-BIPOC, too. 01:34:41.190 --> 01:34:44.220 align:middle line:84% More work can and should be done specifically 01:34:44.220 --> 01:34:47.550 align:middle line:84% in the city of Boston for all residents, 01:34:47.550 --> 01:34:49.320 align:middle line:84% but most of all for Black and Brown, 01:34:49.320 --> 01:34:51.600 align:middle line:84% low-income, and immigrant residents. 01:34:51.600 --> 01:34:54.180 align:middle line:84% Numerous communities of interest exist 01:34:54.180 --> 01:34:56.940 align:middle line:84% within these cities that deserve to be considered 01:34:56.940 --> 01:34:58.470 align:middle line:90% during redistricting. 01:34:58.470 --> 01:35:00.930 align:middle line:84% For example, sizable Chinese communities 01:35:00.930 --> 01:35:05.010 align:middle line:84% exist within both Chinatown and the South End. 01:35:05.010 --> 01:35:09.210 align:middle line:84% The ethnic, cultural, and historical links 01:35:09.210 --> 01:35:11.040 align:middle line:84% these communities share mean that they 01:35:11.040 --> 01:35:14.700 align:middle line:84% should be considered together in any legislative district. 01:35:14.700 --> 01:35:18.840 align:middle line:84% The same can also be said of Black community 01:35:18.840 --> 01:35:20.670 align:middle line:84% in neighborhoods like Dorchester, Hyde 01:35:20.670 --> 01:35:23.640 align:middle line:84% Park, and Mattapan, as well as the Latinx 01:35:23.640 --> 01:35:27.300 align:middle line:84% community and neighborhoods like East Boston. 01:35:27.300 --> 01:35:29.580 align:middle line:84% These predominately BIPOC communities 01:35:29.580 --> 01:35:33.120 align:middle line:84% form communities of interest because of the racial, 01:35:33.120 --> 01:35:36.180 align:middle line:84% cultural, and historical links they share. 01:35:36.180 --> 01:35:38.010 align:middle line:84% Through redistricting, they should 01:35:38.010 --> 01:35:42.400 align:middle line:84% form the most equitable and just districts as possible. 01:35:42.400 --> 01:35:44.760 align:middle line:84% They should not see their political power corrupted 01:35:44.760 --> 01:35:47.850 align:middle line:84% through tactics like cracking and packing, 01:35:47.850 --> 01:35:49.980 align:middle line:84% but instead see the districts formed 01:35:49.980 --> 01:35:54.120 align:middle line:84% in a manner that minimizes and maximizes 01:35:54.120 --> 01:35:58.190 align:middle line:84% political power of both candidates and voters. 01:35:58.190 --> 01:36:01.750 align:middle line:84% We can only imagine how difficult and time-consuming 01:36:01.750 --> 01:36:04.350 align:middle line:90% the redistricting process is. 01:36:04.350 --> 01:36:08.580 align:middle line:84% With that, I thank you for your attention and your hard work 01:36:08.580 --> 01:36:10.080 align:middle line:90% through this process. 01:36:10.080 --> 01:36:12.750 align:middle line:84% I have no doubt that this committee will not only 01:36:12.750 --> 01:36:17.070 align:middle line:84% meet the expectations set by the previous redistricting cycle, 01:36:17.070 --> 01:36:18.690 align:middle line:90% but surpass them. 01:36:18.690 --> 01:36:22.020 align:middle line:84% Thank you for the opportunity to share. 01:36:22.020 --> 01:36:23.640 align:middle line:84% Well, that's certainly our aspiration, 01:36:23.640 --> 01:36:25.980 align:middle line:84% and we appreciate the collaboration we have with you. 01:36:25.980 --> 01:36:30.240 align:middle line:84% And together, we can at least hope 01:36:30.240 --> 01:36:33.250 align:middle line:84% to equal and perhaps surpass what we did 10 years ago. 01:36:33.250 --> 01:36:36.060 align:middle line:90% 01:36:36.060 --> 01:36:40.330 align:middle line:84% Are there questions or comments from members of the committee? 01:36:40.330 --> 01:36:42.337 align:middle line:84% We have one more on the panel, I believe. 01:36:42.337 --> 01:36:43.170 align:middle line:90% Oh, yeah, I'm sorry. 01:36:43.170 --> 01:36:44.580 align:middle line:84% Yeah, let's do that before we get to that. 01:36:44.580 --> 01:36:45.120 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:36:45.120 --> 01:36:48.030 align:middle line:90% Thank you for reminding me. 01:36:48.030 --> 01:36:49.980 align:middle line:90% Suzanne Lee, please. 01:36:49.980 --> 01:36:52.160 align:middle line:84% Hello, and good morning, everyone. 01:36:52.160 --> 01:36:57.020 align:middle line:84% And thank you for being here and wanting to listen 01:36:57.020 --> 01:37:02.240 align:middle line:84% and giving us the chance to share with you our thoughts. 01:37:02.240 --> 01:37:06.830 align:middle line:84% I don't want to waste time to reiterate what 01:37:06.830 --> 01:37:09.720 align:middle line:90% previous speakers have said. 01:37:09.720 --> 01:37:11.610 align:middle line:90% My name is Suzanne Lee. 01:37:11.610 --> 01:37:14.060 align:middle line:90% I'm a Chinatown resident. 01:37:14.060 --> 01:37:20.540 align:middle line:84% I'm also a community activist, and serve now 01:37:20.540 --> 01:37:23.840 align:middle line:84% as the President Emeritus of the Chinese Progressive 01:37:23.840 --> 01:37:25.840 align:middle line:90% Association. 01:37:25.840 --> 01:37:29.890 align:middle line:84% We as the organization have participated or tried to 01:37:29.890 --> 01:37:32.200 align:middle line:84% for the last 40 years, since the '80s, 01:37:32.200 --> 01:37:34.640 align:middle line:90% on this issue of redistricting. 01:37:34.640 --> 01:37:42.500 align:middle line:84% So I am here today to add some more thoughts to this process. 01:37:42.500 --> 01:37:47.900 align:middle line:84% We were really happy that the last go-around 10 years ago-- 01:37:47.900 --> 01:37:53.180 align:middle line:84% that the community of colors was able to increase 01:37:53.180 --> 01:37:56.240 align:middle line:90% our representation district. 01:37:56.240 --> 01:38:01.160 align:middle line:84% But oftentimes Chinatown's the one that has to suffer, 01:38:01.160 --> 01:38:07.070 align:middle line:84% or our interest was not taken into consideration as much. 01:38:07.070 --> 01:38:12.690 align:middle line:84% For example, Chinatown is a historical district. 01:38:12.690 --> 01:38:19.270 align:middle line:84% Although we are small, we are right in the downtown area, 01:38:19.270 --> 01:38:24.750 align:middle line:84% so that's a lot of pressure in how to look at that whole area. 01:38:24.750 --> 01:38:28.570 align:middle line:84% Since the district has been formed, 01:38:28.570 --> 01:38:34.280 align:middle line:84% Chinatown has been moved around to make way 01:38:34.280 --> 01:38:37.130 align:middle line:90% for other interests. 01:38:37.130 --> 01:38:43.130 align:middle line:84% The last time, we were together with the South End and Lower 01:38:43.130 --> 01:38:48.210 align:middle line:84% Roxbury in the Senate district, but we 01:38:48.210 --> 01:38:54.300 align:middle line:84% were moved now to be together with Revere and Winthrop. 01:38:54.300 --> 01:38:56.640 align:middle line:84% That was a big blow to us, because we 01:38:56.640 --> 01:39:01.530 align:middle line:84% had spent years building coalitions and working together 01:39:01.530 --> 01:39:06.690 align:middle line:84% with our historical partners in the South End and Lower Roxbury 01:39:06.690 --> 01:39:11.290 align:middle line:84% on the issues that really impact immigrant communities. 01:39:11.290 --> 01:39:15.750 align:middle line:84% So I hope that this time, we can re-look at that 01:39:15.750 --> 01:39:21.990 align:middle line:84% and see how that can reunite Chinatown with South End 01:39:21.990 --> 01:39:24.890 align:middle line:84% and Lower Roxbury in the Senate district. 01:39:24.890 --> 01:39:27.630 align:middle line:90% I know how hard that is. 01:39:27.630 --> 01:39:30.020 align:middle line:90% We have all looked at that. 01:39:30.020 --> 01:39:33.440 align:middle line:84% In terms of the congressional district, 01:39:33.440 --> 01:39:35.840 align:middle line:84% we have always been in district 7, 01:39:35.840 --> 01:39:40.340 align:middle line:84% regardless of who the representative is. 01:39:40.340 --> 01:39:44.360 align:middle line:84% But right now, district 7 is a space 01:39:44.360 --> 01:39:50.120 align:middle line:84% where the community of color has the most representation, 01:39:50.120 --> 01:39:53.690 align:middle line:84% because our issues are being heard and championed 01:39:53.690 --> 01:39:57.530 align:middle line:84% by our current representative, Ayanna Pressley. 01:39:57.530 --> 01:40:00.930 align:middle line:84% She's not going to be in that seat forever, 01:40:00.930 --> 01:40:03.660 align:middle line:84% so I understand that drawing these lines 01:40:03.660 --> 01:40:06.240 align:middle line:90% is not about one person. 01:40:06.240 --> 01:40:09.460 align:middle line:84% It's about our communities being together, 01:40:09.460 --> 01:40:12.630 align:middle line:90% so that our issues can be heard. 01:40:12.630 --> 01:40:16.380 align:middle line:84% And I want to ask something that I have not heard today. 01:40:16.380 --> 01:40:20.730 align:middle line:84% You know, the current anti-Asian violence that we see around 01:40:20.730 --> 01:40:22.450 align:middle line:90% the country-- 01:40:22.450 --> 01:40:25.230 align:middle line:84% there are many factors that cause that. 01:40:25.230 --> 01:40:29.070 align:middle line:84% But one factor, I believe, is critical-- 01:40:29.070 --> 01:40:31.800 align:middle line:84% is how the Asians, and particularly 01:40:31.800 --> 01:40:36.360 align:middle line:84% the Chinese immigrants, have been treated by our government 01:40:36.360 --> 01:40:43.840 align:middle line:84% on all levels, from federal to state and to city, that 01:40:43.840 --> 01:40:46.510 align:middle line:84% often when decisions are being made, 01:40:46.510 --> 01:40:53.000 align:middle line:84% because we are small in number, that we become expedients. 01:40:53.000 --> 01:40:57.850 align:middle line:84% You can move it here, move it there, it doesn't matter. 01:40:57.850 --> 01:41:01.570 align:middle line:84% That adds to the image to the general public 01:41:01.570 --> 01:41:04.170 align:middle line:90% that we don't matter. 01:41:04.170 --> 01:41:10.000 align:middle line:84% That allows people to take matters into their own hands 01:41:10.000 --> 01:41:12.280 align:middle line:84% and do whatever they feel like they can, 01:41:12.280 --> 01:41:16.890 align:middle line:84% to attack Asian elders, and nothing would happen. 01:41:16.890 --> 01:41:19.770 align:middle line:84% They can do whatever they want to our community, 01:41:19.770 --> 01:41:21.960 align:middle line:84% and nothing can happen, because we 01:41:21.960 --> 01:41:25.400 align:middle line:90% don't have that representation. 01:41:25.400 --> 01:41:27.670 align:middle line:84% My family's been here for three generations. 01:41:27.670 --> 01:41:31.460 align:middle line:90% 01:41:31.460 --> 01:41:36.820 align:middle line:90% So to me, this is important. 01:41:36.820 --> 01:41:41.270 align:middle line:84% And I've been working on this for 40 years. 01:41:41.270 --> 01:41:46.730 align:middle line:84% I think it's time for people to look at where Chinatown can 01:41:46.730 --> 01:41:51.270 align:middle line:90% be home and be with community. 01:41:51.270 --> 01:41:51.770 align:middle line:90% Sorry. 01:41:51.770 --> 01:41:55.130 align:middle line:90% 01:41:55.130 --> 01:41:57.995 align:middle line:90% Take your time, and-- 01:41:57.995 --> 01:42:00.590 align:middle line:84% And I know that our population is 01:42:00.590 --> 01:42:06.160 align:middle line:84% being dispersed throughout the Greater Boston area. 01:42:06.160 --> 01:42:11.430 align:middle line:84% It's because we were not able to fight for keeping 01:42:11.430 --> 01:42:13.710 align:middle line:90% the community together. 01:42:13.710 --> 01:42:18.270 align:middle line:84% And we need to have our representative 01:42:18.270 --> 01:42:23.820 align:middle line:84% on the city and the state and federal level, to see us 01:42:23.820 --> 01:42:24.590 align:middle line:90% and we are. 01:42:24.590 --> 01:42:27.820 align:middle line:90% 01:42:27.820 --> 01:42:37.850 align:middle line:84% We've been here since my grandfather's generation, 01:42:37.850 --> 01:42:40.400 align:middle line:84% and it's the first time that I feel like we 01:42:40.400 --> 01:42:41.840 align:middle line:90% have some representation. 01:42:41.840 --> 01:42:44.370 align:middle line:90% 01:42:44.370 --> 01:42:47.450 align:middle line:84% But we are not equal yet, and that 01:42:47.450 --> 01:42:51.880 align:middle line:84% should be at the essence of the redistricting process-- 01:42:51.880 --> 01:42:56.060 align:middle line:84% not just looking at numbers, but what impact 01:42:56.060 --> 01:42:57.470 align:middle line:90% it would have for the people. 01:42:57.470 --> 01:43:00.068 align:middle line:90% 01:43:00.068 --> 01:43:01.610 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony. 01:43:01.610 --> 01:43:02.110 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:43:02.110 --> 01:43:04.570 align:middle line:84% We appreciate you speaking from the heart, 01:43:04.570 --> 01:43:08.110 align:middle line:84% and we look forward to continued dialogue 01:43:08.110 --> 01:43:12.010 align:middle line:84% on exactly how to accomplish what you're talking about. 01:43:12.010 --> 01:43:16.690 align:middle line:84% Offline and online, we are all ears for you 01:43:16.690 --> 01:43:19.456 align:middle line:90% as to how to do that best. 01:43:19.456 --> 01:43:21.670 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] [? how ?] many of you really try. 01:43:21.670 --> 01:43:25.360 align:middle line:84% I know all of our representatives 01:43:25.360 --> 01:43:27.460 align:middle line:90% want to do the right thing. 01:43:27.460 --> 01:43:33.830 align:middle line:84% But oftentimes, you do have competing interests, 01:43:33.830 --> 01:43:39.110 align:middle line:84% and so it comes down to what is important. 01:43:39.110 --> 01:43:42.410 align:middle line:84% So let's keep this channel of communication open. 01:43:42.410 --> 01:43:44.750 align:middle line:84% You know, I'm particularly conscious of that issue 01:43:44.750 --> 01:43:48.020 align:middle line:84% in the Senate seat context, and it's 01:43:48.020 --> 01:43:49.743 align:middle line:90% very much on my radar screen. 01:43:49.743 --> 01:43:51.410 align:middle line:84% But we want to make sure we do it right, 01:43:51.410 --> 01:43:56.930 align:middle line:84% so we hope you'll keep flowing data to us on exactly how-- 01:43:56.930 --> 01:44:00.530 align:middle line:84% exactly which precincts-- I hope that you will follow up with 01:44:00.530 --> 01:44:01.880 align:middle line:90% the statement about-- 01:44:01.880 --> 01:44:04.640 align:middle line:84% when you say, I want you to try to come together, 01:44:04.640 --> 01:44:08.060 align:middle line:84% how are you defining that, and exactly 01:44:08.060 --> 01:44:11.270 align:middle line:84% in terms of Boston precincts or census data concepts-- 01:44:11.270 --> 01:44:14.240 align:middle line:90% whatever's easier for you. 01:44:14.240 --> 01:44:15.500 align:middle line:90% We're all ears. 01:44:15.500 --> 01:44:17.850 align:middle line:84% Yeah, I'm not just talking about Chinatown 01:44:17.850 --> 01:44:20.420 align:middle line:90% being together as a district. 01:44:20.420 --> 01:44:22.520 align:middle line:84% I'm talking about Chinatown to be together 01:44:22.520 --> 01:44:25.850 align:middle line:84% with communities of color, because we 01:44:25.850 --> 01:44:28.560 align:middle line:90% have lots of common interests. 01:44:28.560 --> 01:44:29.730 align:middle line:90% Gotcha. 01:44:29.730 --> 01:44:31.290 align:middle line:90% I got that, and-- 01:44:31.290 --> 01:44:33.268 align:middle line:90% keep that together and keep it-- 01:44:33.268 --> 01:44:35.310 align:middle line:84% what are the areas that you want to keep together 01:44:35.310 --> 01:44:37.770 align:middle line:84% with each other and with the broader 01:44:37.770 --> 01:44:40.170 align:middle line:90% block in the center of Boston. 01:44:40.170 --> 01:44:42.600 align:middle line:90% I hear you. 01:44:42.600 --> 01:44:46.340 align:middle line:84% So we've got Beth, Cheryl, and Suzanne on this panel, 01:44:46.340 --> 01:44:49.532 align:middle line:84% and we appreciate the testimony you've each provided. 01:44:49.532 --> 01:44:51.740 align:middle line:84% And now, we're going to open to comments or questions 01:44:51.740 --> 01:44:56.320 align:middle line:84% on any of the testimony we just heard from this panel. 01:44:56.320 --> 01:44:58.520 align:middle line:90% Chairman Moran. 01:44:58.520 --> 01:45:00.950 align:middle line:84% Beth-- actually, I got something for all of you 01:45:00.950 --> 01:45:03.110 align:middle line:90% if you don't mind. 01:45:03.110 --> 01:45:07.910 align:middle line:84% Beth, you had mentioned three priorities. 01:45:07.910 --> 01:45:10.520 align:middle line:84% Could you give me the Cliffsnotes 01:45:10.520 --> 01:45:12.530 align:middle line:90% on those three priorities again? 01:45:12.530 --> 01:45:16.080 align:middle line:84% For sure, and I will definitely send the testimony your way 01:45:16.080 --> 01:45:19.030 align:middle line:90% so you can get it-- 01:45:19.030 --> 01:45:20.790 align:middle line:90% you can find it later. 01:45:20.790 --> 01:45:25.040 align:middle line:84% So the first is, there is that entire block of districts 01:45:25.040 --> 01:45:27.890 align:middle line:84% that covers East Boston, Chelsea, Revere, and 01:45:27.890 --> 01:45:30.950 align:middle line:90% Everett, where-- 01:45:30.950 --> 01:45:33.680 align:middle line:84% I think we've all seen stories in The Globe 01:45:33.680 --> 01:45:40.820 align:middle line:84% about tensions about underrepresentation in Everett 01:45:40.820 --> 01:45:43.350 align:middle line:90% and Revere over the years. 01:45:43.350 --> 01:45:47.450 align:middle line:84% And those types of tensions exist at the city level 01:45:47.450 --> 01:45:51.830 align:middle line:84% and also in the state House district. 01:45:51.830 --> 01:45:54.380 align:middle line:84% I'm going to call that the Chelsea issue, right? 01:45:54.380 --> 01:45:57.500 align:middle line:84% Yeah, it's the Chelsea, Revere, and Everett 01:45:57.500 --> 01:45:58.790 align:middle line:90% set of issues, right? 01:45:58.790 --> 01:45:59.480 align:middle line:90% I just want to-- 01:45:59.480 --> 01:46:00.740 align:middle line:90% I get exactly [INAUDIBLE]. 01:46:00.740 --> 01:46:03.300 align:middle line:84% In my head, we're calling it the Chelsea issue. 01:46:03.300 --> 01:46:03.390 align:middle line:90% [INTERPOSING VOICES] 01:46:03.390 --> 01:46:05.900 align:middle line:84% I gotta give myself the easiest way to deal with it, so-- 01:46:05.900 --> 01:46:08.000 align:middle line:90% Right, and so you know, I mean-- 01:46:08.000 --> 01:46:10.250 align:middle line:84% That would be particular to the House district, right? 01:46:10.250 --> 01:46:10.970 align:middle line:90% That would be particular-- 01:46:10.970 --> 01:46:11.750 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:46:11.750 --> 01:46:13.640 align:middle line:90% Yeah, to the House district. 01:46:13.640 --> 01:46:17.960 align:middle line:84% And so I think given that Senator Boncore announced 01:46:17.960 --> 01:46:22.010 align:middle line:84% his plans to leave the Senate, I think 01:46:22.010 --> 01:46:29.600 align:middle line:84% it's safe to guess that a state representative, maybe 01:46:29.600 --> 01:46:34.220 align:middle line:84% more than one, is very likely to run for that state Senate seat. 01:46:34.220 --> 01:46:39.470 align:middle line:84% It does actually open up a new set of political opportunities 01:46:39.470 --> 01:46:42.650 align:middle line:84% since there won't be longtime incumbents 01:46:42.650 --> 01:46:49.520 align:middle line:84% in that block of districts around East Boston to just 01:46:49.520 --> 01:46:51.140 align:middle line:90% short of Lynn area. 01:46:51.140 --> 01:46:53.060 align:middle line:84% All of those districts, at least according 01:46:53.060 --> 01:46:56.360 align:middle line:84% to population estimates from 2019, 01:46:56.360 --> 01:46:59.900 align:middle line:84% should be overpopulated by 5,000, sometimes 01:46:59.900 --> 01:47:01.760 align:middle line:90% as many as 6,000 people. 01:47:01.760 --> 01:47:04.700 align:middle line:84% Who knows what the 2020 census numbers will actually show us, 01:47:04.700 --> 01:47:09.530 align:middle line:84% but I'm guessing that it's above the 5% deviation-- 01:47:09.530 --> 01:47:14.520 align:middle line:84% or very close to the 5% deviation. 01:47:14.520 --> 01:47:16.880 align:middle line:84% So that's the first set of priorities-- 01:47:16.880 --> 01:47:19.850 align:middle line:84% are the House districts from East Boston 01:47:19.850 --> 01:47:22.910 align:middle line:84% to Chelsea, to Revere, Everett, and Winthrop. 01:47:22.910 --> 01:47:23.660 align:middle line:90% The second big-- 01:47:23.660 --> 01:47:25.400 align:middle line:90% And would you say this-- 01:47:25.400 --> 01:47:27.140 align:middle line:84% you brought up a potential person. 01:47:27.140 --> 01:47:29.723 align:middle line:84% If that person from East Boston is the one you're particularly 01:47:29.723 --> 01:47:34.910 align:middle line:84% looking at, that district is already a section 2 district. 01:47:34.910 --> 01:47:35.420 align:middle line:90% Yeah. 01:47:35.420 --> 01:47:39.410 align:middle line:84% And by that, I mean it is majority-Latino. 01:47:39.410 --> 01:47:42.050 align:middle line:84% In my thinking, that's, sort of, gold standard. 01:47:42.050 --> 01:47:43.060 align:middle line:90% You know what I mean? 01:47:43.060 --> 01:47:43.950 align:middle line:90% Yup. 01:47:43.950 --> 01:47:46.310 align:middle line:84% You don't want to tinker too much with that, 01:47:46.310 --> 01:47:48.920 align:middle line:90% only because you have it. 01:47:48.920 --> 01:47:52.760 align:middle line:84% The longer it stays, the more it matures, the more-- 01:47:52.760 --> 01:47:56.450 align:middle line:84% so anyways, just-- so what was the second one? 01:47:56.450 --> 01:47:58.970 align:middle line:84% The second one-- and I agree with that assessment, 01:47:58.970 --> 01:48:03.690 align:middle line:84% that we want to keep the East Boston district a 50% plus one 01:48:03.690 --> 01:48:04.400 align:middle line:90% Latinx district. 01:48:04.400 --> 01:48:06.530 align:middle line:90% That makes sense to me. 01:48:06.530 --> 01:48:13.580 align:middle line:84% The second part is, of course, we'll see what the counts look 01:48:13.580 --> 01:48:17.360 align:middle line:84% like, but I think especially with Senator Chang-Diaz 01:48:17.360 --> 01:48:20.510 align:middle line:84% announcing that she's not seeking reelection, 01:48:20.510 --> 01:48:21.980 align:middle line:90% and then also-- 01:48:21.980 --> 01:48:24.350 align:middle line:84% there is an opportunity to remix one 01:48:24.350 --> 01:48:27.410 align:middle line:84% of the majority-BIPOC districts in Boston 01:48:27.410 --> 01:48:29.600 align:middle line:90% for the state Senate level. 01:48:29.600 --> 01:48:35.360 align:middle line:84% And there's probably-- and then, to Suzanne's point that we want 01:48:35.360 --> 01:48:38.270 align:middle line:84% to keep Chinatown with other communities of color, 01:48:38.270 --> 01:48:42.020 align:middle line:84% there is a way of remixing Boston such that there is 01:48:42.020 --> 01:48:46.940 align:middle line:84% a strong third majority-BIPOC district that includes much 01:48:46.940 --> 01:48:51.800 align:middle line:84% of the many Boston communities of color in the way that there 01:48:51.800 --> 01:48:52.430 align:middle line:90% are-- 01:48:52.430 --> 01:48:55.700 align:middle line:84% currently, Senator DiDomenico, Senator Brownsberger, 01:48:55.700 --> 01:48:59.060 align:middle line:84% and Senator Boncore each have a piece of Boston, 01:48:59.060 --> 01:49:02.450 align:middle line:84% but there is a way actually of doing some consolidation. 01:49:02.450 --> 01:49:04.370 align:middle line:84% Of course, we need to see what the data looks 01:49:04.370 --> 01:49:06.680 align:middle line:84% like to see if that's possible, but I 01:49:06.680 --> 01:49:11.030 align:middle line:84% think there is probably a way of increasing Black representation 01:49:11.030 --> 01:49:14.960 align:middle line:84% in the second Suffolk Senate district, 01:49:14.960 --> 01:49:18.590 align:middle line:84% and then probably moving some of the non-Black people of color 01:49:18.590 --> 01:49:21.742 align:middle line:84% into another majority-BIPOC Senate district. 01:49:21.742 --> 01:49:24.200 align:middle line:84% I don't really know exactly what that's going to look like, 01:49:24.200 --> 01:49:27.840 align:middle line:84% but there is a possibility of making that happen. 01:49:27.840 --> 01:49:29.300 align:middle line:90% But strengthening-- 01:49:29.300 --> 01:49:33.770 align:middle line:84% Again, to Cliffsnotes it, one majority-Black Senate district 01:49:33.770 --> 01:49:36.410 align:middle line:84% and two BIPOC districts-- is that 01:49:36.410 --> 01:49:38.360 align:middle line:90% what you're looking for here? 01:49:38.360 --> 01:49:40.140 align:middle line:84% If the numbers support it in August. 01:49:40.140 --> 01:49:40.640 align:middle line:90% OK. 01:49:40.640 --> 01:49:41.460 align:middle line:90% All right. 01:49:41.460 --> 01:49:43.710 align:middle line:84% Yeah, all of this is, kind of, speculation. 01:49:43.710 --> 01:49:45.110 align:middle line:90% So-- 01:49:45.110 --> 01:49:47.270 align:middle line:84% This helps, and this informs us about-- 01:49:47.270 --> 01:49:49.460 align:middle line:84% Yeah, but those are some potential scenarios 01:49:49.460 --> 01:49:51.620 align:middle line:90% that we would be supportive of. 01:49:51.620 --> 01:49:55.700 align:middle line:84% And then, the third piece is keeping a very strongly 01:49:55.700 --> 01:49:57.860 align:middle line:90% majority-BIPOC CD 7. 01:49:57.860 --> 01:49:58.370 align:middle line:90% OK. 01:49:58.370 --> 01:49:59.210 align:middle line:90% Yep. 01:49:59.210 --> 01:49:59.750 align:middle line:90% OK. 01:49:59.750 --> 01:50:01.960 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 01:50:01.960 --> 01:50:05.927 align:middle line:90% And Cheryl, hello. 01:50:05.927 --> 01:50:08.510 align:middle line:84% I got you on the Randolph, and I got you on the Chelsea stuff, 01:50:08.510 --> 01:50:09.540 align:middle line:90% and I hear you. 01:50:09.540 --> 01:50:11.210 align:middle line:90% We're going to look at that. 01:50:11.210 --> 01:50:14.660 align:middle line:84% At least on the House map, that's very much a priority. 01:50:14.660 --> 01:50:17.370 align:middle line:84% And Suzanne, you probably already know, 01:50:17.370 --> 01:50:21.140 align:middle line:84% but I represent a community that is very much Asian. 01:50:21.140 --> 01:50:23.840 align:middle line:84% The Asian population is very much, in Allston-Brighton, 01:50:23.840 --> 01:50:28.460 align:middle line:84% a significant portion of our district in our community. 01:50:28.460 --> 01:50:31.650 align:middle line:84% And what I'm going to look at or what I find interesting, 01:50:31.650 --> 01:50:34.940 align:middle line:84% Suzanne, is that in Chinatown, all the development that's 01:50:34.940 --> 01:50:37.763 align:middle line:90% happened in 10 years-- 01:50:37.763 --> 01:50:39.680 align:middle line:84% you know, it's going to be interesting to look 01:50:39.680 --> 01:50:43.970 align:middle line:84% at those precincts in Chinatown and how 01:50:43.970 --> 01:50:49.700 align:middle line:84% they performed from 10 years ago when it comes to population. 01:50:49.700 --> 01:50:51.940 align:middle line:90% And is there a chance there-- 01:50:51.940 --> 01:50:58.280 align:middle line:84% is there a chance there where we can potentially-- 01:50:58.280 --> 01:50:59.990 align:middle line:90% and I'm just going to say it-- 01:50:59.990 --> 01:51:05.030 align:middle line:84% maybe subdivide a precinct down there, 01:51:05.030 --> 01:51:09.320 align:middle line:84% where the Asian population gets more 01:51:09.320 --> 01:51:13.880 align:middle line:90% of a percentage of a precinct? 01:51:13.880 --> 01:51:16.040 align:middle line:84% Because when I look at those towers that 01:51:16.040 --> 01:51:19.340 align:middle line:84% are built in and around down there, 01:51:19.340 --> 01:51:21.747 align:middle line:84% I don't know who's moving into them. 01:51:21.747 --> 01:51:22.580 align:middle line:90% I couldn't tell you. 01:51:22.580 --> 01:51:24.455 align:middle line:84% You'd probably be able to tell me way better. 01:51:24.455 --> 01:51:25.790 align:middle line:90% I could tell you. 01:51:25.790 --> 01:51:29.060 align:middle line:84% But I see a lot of people moving in down there. 01:51:29.060 --> 01:51:32.450 align:middle line:84% And if the people that are moving in 01:51:32.450 --> 01:51:38.600 align:middle line:84% are going to water down the Asian population in Chinatown 01:51:38.600 --> 01:51:41.660 align:middle line:84% because we haven't done reprecincting 01:51:41.660 --> 01:51:45.140 align:middle line:84% in the city of Boston in such a long time, 01:51:45.140 --> 01:51:49.070 align:middle line:84% then I think that bears us taking a look at. 01:51:49.070 --> 01:51:50.490 align:middle line:90% And I'll leave it at that. 01:51:50.490 --> 01:51:52.370 align:middle line:84% And so I hear what you're saying. 01:51:52.370 --> 01:51:54.380 align:middle line:84% I totally hear what you're saying. 01:51:54.380 --> 01:51:56.390 align:middle line:84% And that's why that whole discussion 01:51:56.390 --> 01:51:58.490 align:middle line:84% we had a few weeks back on reprecincting 01:51:58.490 --> 01:51:59.390 align:middle line:90% was so interesting. 01:51:59.390 --> 01:52:01.850 align:middle line:84% Because especially with the growth 01:52:01.850 --> 01:52:04.700 align:middle line:84% in the city of Boston in areas like Chinatown, 01:52:04.700 --> 01:52:07.220 align:middle line:84% the last thing we want to see happen 01:52:07.220 --> 01:52:11.510 align:middle line:84% is a situation where people's voices are being watered down 01:52:11.510 --> 01:52:15.320 align:middle line:84% simply because we haven't taken the steps to draw 01:52:15.320 --> 01:52:16.700 align:middle line:90% new precincts. 01:52:16.700 --> 01:52:19.490 align:middle line:90% And that's all I'm saying, so-- 01:52:19.490 --> 01:52:20.750 align:middle line:90% I appreciate that. 01:52:20.750 --> 01:52:23.180 align:middle line:90% And just so that you all know-- 01:52:23.180 --> 01:52:27.440 align:middle line:84% I know that you know, and Senator Brownsberger knows-- 01:52:27.440 --> 01:52:30.800 align:middle line:84% that the Chinese Progressive Association is not just 01:52:30.800 --> 01:52:32.280 align:middle line:90% Chinatown. 01:52:32.280 --> 01:52:35.810 align:middle line:84% We have members throughout Greater Boston. 01:52:35.810 --> 01:52:38.970 align:middle line:84% And we do have a big population in Allston-Brighton, 01:52:38.970 --> 01:52:42.830 align:middle line:84% and I know that you've been championing some of the issues 01:52:42.830 --> 01:52:44.030 align:middle line:90% there. 01:52:44.030 --> 01:52:48.080 align:middle line:84% And you're right that the population 01:52:48.080 --> 01:52:49.580 align:middle line:90% in the Chinatown area-- 01:52:49.580 --> 01:52:52.770 align:middle line:84% that that town has shifted so much. 01:52:52.770 --> 01:52:58.140 align:middle line:84% And the precinct that I live in, 3-8, 01:52:58.140 --> 01:53:02.570 align:middle line:90% is one of the biggest precints. 01:53:02.570 --> 01:53:03.350 align:middle line:90% So-- 01:53:03.350 --> 01:53:04.850 align:middle line:90% Huge. 01:53:04.850 --> 01:53:09.950 align:middle line:84% --I don't know what comes first, or whether or not [? during ?] 01:53:09.950 --> 01:53:13.810 align:middle line:84% the reprecincting first, then do the redistricting. 01:53:13.810 --> 01:53:16.540 align:middle line:90% It sounds to me, it makes sense. 01:53:16.540 --> 01:53:20.090 align:middle line:84% But I don't know why it was not done all these years. 01:53:20.090 --> 01:53:21.280 align:middle line:90% So-- 01:53:21.280 --> 01:53:23.800 align:middle line:84% I, kind of, come at this, Suzanne, 01:53:23.800 --> 01:53:25.300 align:middle line:90% with a very basic thing. 01:53:25.300 --> 01:53:27.430 align:middle line:84% If you do what's right, then you're OK. 01:53:27.430 --> 01:53:28.000 align:middle line:90% If you just-- 01:53:28.000 --> 01:53:28.435 align:middle line:90% Yes. 01:53:28.435 --> 01:53:29.852 align:middle line:84% --you have some principles and you 01:53:29.852 --> 01:53:33.370 align:middle line:84% do what's right, on the back end of it, you're going to be fine. 01:53:33.370 --> 01:53:35.370 align:middle line:84% But that is an issue we're going to be looking-- 01:53:35.370 --> 01:53:41.140 align:middle line:84% I intend to take a peek at as it pertains to the House district 01:53:41.140 --> 01:53:44.500 align:middle line:84% anyway, and the map as a whole, I think. 01:53:44.500 --> 01:53:48.960 align:middle line:84% I look forward to more conversation on this. 01:53:48.960 --> 01:53:49.890 align:middle line:90% All right, thank you. 01:53:49.890 --> 01:53:50.880 align:middle line:90% I'm sorry, Senator. 01:53:50.880 --> 01:53:52.930 align:middle line:84% I just wanted to clarify those things. 01:53:52.930 --> 01:53:53.430 align:middle line:90% No, no. 01:53:53.430 --> 01:53:54.097 align:middle line:90% I appreciate it. 01:53:54.097 --> 01:53:56.070 align:middle line:90% That's helpful. 01:53:56.070 --> 01:53:58.350 align:middle line:84% Let me just pick up something that Beth 01:53:58.350 --> 01:54:03.640 align:middle line:84% said, this domino effect around Joe Boncore's decision, 01:54:03.640 --> 01:54:06.450 align:middle line:84% if in fact that happens, which-- it has not happened yet. 01:54:06.450 --> 01:54:10.800 align:middle line:84% But if it happens, I wouldn't assume that the district 01:54:10.800 --> 01:54:12.430 align:middle line:90% looks like it looks like. 01:54:12.430 --> 01:54:15.690 align:middle line:84% So people are going to have to see how these districts shape 01:54:15.690 --> 01:54:19.680 align:middle line:84% up before they start making their plans to run for Senate. 01:54:19.680 --> 01:54:25.090 align:middle line:90% 01:54:25.090 --> 01:54:27.490 align:middle line:84% Other questions, comments from members 01:54:27.490 --> 01:54:30.525 align:middle line:84% of the Committee for the panel or additional thoughts 01:54:30.525 --> 01:54:31.150 align:middle line:90% from the panel? 01:54:31.150 --> 01:54:35.405 align:middle line:90% 01:54:35.405 --> 01:54:37.530 align:middle line:84% We're super grateful for the work you're all doing, 01:54:37.530 --> 01:54:39.447 align:middle line:84% and look forward to continuing to work closely 01:54:39.447 --> 01:54:41.840 align:middle line:84% with you over the weeks to come as we 01:54:41.840 --> 01:54:43.490 align:middle line:90% come into the homestretch. 01:54:43.490 --> 01:54:46.830 align:middle line:90% [SNEEZING] 01:54:46.830 --> 01:54:47.460 align:middle line:90% Bless you. 01:54:47.460 --> 01:54:48.480 align:middle line:90% Bless you. 01:54:48.480 --> 01:54:51.210 align:middle line:90% 01:54:51.210 --> 01:54:52.240 align:middle line:90% Whoever that was. 01:54:52.240 --> 01:54:53.430 align:middle line:90% You may remain anonymous. 01:54:53.430 --> 01:54:54.420 align:middle line:90% Sorry about that. 01:54:54.420 --> 01:54:55.110 align:middle line:90% [CHUCKLE] 01:54:55.110 --> 01:54:57.330 align:middle line:90% Not a worry, not a worry. 01:54:57.330 --> 01:55:00.750 align:middle line:84% So let's go to the next panel, which 01:55:00.750 --> 01:55:08.790 align:middle line:84% includes Calla Walsh, Juan Gallego, and Minnah Sheikh. 01:55:08.790 --> 01:55:19.550 align:middle line:90% 01:55:19.550 --> 01:55:21.320 align:middle line:90% Hi, can you hear me OK? 01:55:21.320 --> 01:55:22.640 align:middle line:90% We sure can. 01:55:22.640 --> 01:55:23.360 align:middle line:90% Great. 01:55:23.360 --> 01:55:25.950 align:middle line:90% Thank you for hosting our panel. 01:55:25.950 --> 01:55:28.310 align:middle line:84% We also have Anthony Collins joining us, 01:55:28.310 --> 01:55:31.580 align:middle line:84% in addition to Juan Gallego, and Minnah Sheikh. 01:55:31.580 --> 01:55:32.250 align:middle line:90% Good morning. 01:55:32.250 --> 01:55:34.833 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Chairs Brownsberger and Moran and the Redistricting 01:55:34.833 --> 01:55:36.740 align:middle line:84% Committee for hosting this hearing. 01:55:36.740 --> 01:55:38.810 align:middle line:84% My name is Calla Walsh, I live in Cambridge, 01:55:38.810 --> 01:55:43.580 align:middle line:84% and I'm here to speak in support of a redistricting process that 01:55:43.580 --> 01:55:46.130 align:middle line:84% centers racial justice and the voices of historically 01:55:46.130 --> 01:55:47.930 align:middle line:90% disenfranchised communities. 01:55:47.930 --> 01:55:50.780 align:middle line:84% I'm also here as part of a panel with the Drawing Democracy 01:55:50.780 --> 01:55:52.850 align:middle line:84% Coalition made up of other youth. 01:55:52.850 --> 01:55:54.320 align:middle line:84% And before I began my testimony, I 01:55:54.320 --> 01:55:58.080 align:middle line:84% want to explain why the youth perspective is so important. 01:55:58.080 --> 01:56:00.557 align:middle line:84% I'm 17, so 2022 will be the first year 01:56:00.557 --> 01:56:01.640 align:middle line:90% that I'm eligible to vote. 01:56:01.640 --> 01:56:03.920 align:middle line:84% And the sad reality is that I'm probably 01:56:03.920 --> 01:56:05.420 align:middle line:84% one of the youngest people that will 01:56:05.420 --> 01:56:09.020 align:middle line:84% testify before the legislature this entire session. 01:56:09.020 --> 01:56:11.150 align:middle line:84% It's not that young people don't care about policy 01:56:11.150 --> 01:56:13.192 align:middle line:84% or that we aren't impacted by the issues at hand, 01:56:13.192 --> 01:56:14.037 align:middle line:90% because we are. 01:56:14.037 --> 01:56:15.620 align:middle line:84% Young people make up the vast majority 01:56:15.620 --> 01:56:18.050 align:middle line:84% of renters, minimum-wage earners, frontline workers, 01:56:18.050 --> 01:56:19.820 align:middle line:84% and student debt carriers, and we 01:56:19.820 --> 01:56:21.920 align:middle line:84% will bear the burden of the climate crisis. 01:56:21.920 --> 01:56:24.260 align:middle line:84% But it's because the activities of our state legislature 01:56:24.260 --> 01:56:26.510 align:middle line:84% and government in general are inaccessible. 01:56:26.510 --> 01:56:28.760 align:middle line:84% There are countless barriers to civic engagement, 01:56:28.760 --> 01:56:30.890 align:middle line:84% from political disenchantment to a lack of civics 01:56:30.890 --> 01:56:32.630 align:middle line:90% education in our schools. 01:56:32.630 --> 01:56:34.580 align:middle line:84% And too often, older generations will 01:56:34.580 --> 01:56:37.190 align:middle line:84% testify in front of this body and speak for our generation 01:56:37.190 --> 01:56:39.830 align:middle line:84% instead of listening to us and fighting alongside us. 01:56:39.830 --> 01:56:41.870 align:middle line:84% And I really believe the redistricting process 01:56:41.870 --> 01:56:44.210 align:middle line:84% can be used to end the disenfranchisement 01:56:44.210 --> 01:56:47.570 align:middle line:84% of all communities that have been left behind, 01:56:47.570 --> 01:56:49.670 align:middle line:90% including young people. 01:56:49.670 --> 01:56:51.620 align:middle line:84% So first, I want to urge the committee 01:56:51.620 --> 01:56:53.840 align:middle line:84% to prioritize greater student representation 01:56:53.840 --> 01:56:56.510 align:middle line:84% while redistricting our House and Senate districts. 01:56:56.510 --> 01:57:00.320 align:middle line:84% This will look like grouping campuses such as BU, BC, and/or 01:57:00.320 --> 01:57:02.270 align:middle line:84% Northeastern together, and grouping 01:57:02.270 --> 01:57:05.060 align:middle line:84% student residential areas in Cambridge, Boston, 01:57:05.060 --> 01:57:06.300 align:middle line:90% and Somerville. 01:57:06.300 --> 01:57:08.240 align:middle line:84% Massachusetts has the 10th highest percentage 01:57:08.240 --> 01:57:11.090 align:middle line:84% of college students as part of our population in the country, 01:57:11.090 --> 01:57:14.510 align:middle line:84% with over 500,000 students making a home here. 01:57:14.510 --> 01:57:17.330 align:middle line:84% Our legislature, on the other hand, is over 50% 01:57:17.330 --> 01:57:21.135 align:middle line:84% boomers, only 7% millennials, and of course 0% Gen Z. 01:57:21.135 --> 01:57:23.510 align:middle line:84% While there are many obstacles to running for office that 01:57:23.510 --> 01:57:25.218 align:middle line:84% contribute to this lack of representation 01:57:25.218 --> 01:57:26.990 align:middle line:84% for young people, redistricting could 01:57:26.990 --> 01:57:30.090 align:middle line:84% be a tool to increase our political power. 01:57:30.090 --> 01:57:32.300 align:middle line:84% Next, I want to voice my support for increasing 01:57:32.300 --> 01:57:34.730 align:middle line:84% the political power of young progressive communities 01:57:34.730 --> 01:57:37.160 align:middle line:84% like Cambridge while redistricting our House seats. 01:57:37.160 --> 01:57:39.470 align:middle line:84% Currently, our city is split up into all districts 01:57:39.470 --> 01:57:42.260 align:middle line:84% and often grouped in with more older, conservative, 01:57:42.260 --> 01:57:44.480 align:middle line:84% and often wealthier neighboring communities. 01:57:44.480 --> 01:57:46.820 align:middle line:84% As a lifelong resident of Cambridge's Ward 5, 01:57:46.820 --> 01:57:48.560 align:middle line:84% I'm in the East Suffolk District, 01:57:48.560 --> 01:57:50.690 align:middle line:84% and I urge the Committee to group Cambridgeport 01:57:50.690 --> 01:57:53.360 align:middle line:84% with Central Square in the redrawing of our districts, 01:57:53.360 --> 01:57:55.190 align:middle line:90% not Back Bay and Beacon Hill. 01:57:55.190 --> 01:58:00.230 align:middle line:84% And I also urge the Committee to not group precincts 01:58:00.230 --> 01:58:02.457 align:middle line:84% 11-1 and 11-3 in North Cambridge, 01:58:02.457 --> 01:58:04.790 align:middle line:84% which have large immigrant and working-class populations 01:58:04.790 --> 01:58:07.580 align:middle line:84% in the Rindge Towers, with Arlington and Belmont 01:58:07.580 --> 01:58:09.470 align:middle line:90% in the 24th Middlesex. 01:58:09.470 --> 01:58:11.600 align:middle line:84% And finally, I want to emphasize the need 01:58:11.600 --> 01:58:14.330 align:middle line:84% for more majority-BIPOC districts across the state, 01:58:14.330 --> 01:58:17.420 align:middle line:84% as Gen Z is our state's most diverse generation. 01:58:17.420 --> 01:58:19.730 align:middle line:84% I urge you to value the unique perspective 01:58:19.730 --> 01:58:21.800 align:middle line:84% that we bring to the table as the generation that 01:58:21.800 --> 01:58:25.580 align:middle line:84% will be rising to comprise a new voter base as elections start 01:58:25.580 --> 01:58:28.280 align:middle line:84% to take place in these newly drawn districts. 01:58:28.280 --> 01:58:30.170 align:middle line:84% And I will pass it over to Anthony. 01:58:30.170 --> 01:58:33.220 align:middle line:90% 01:58:33.220 --> 01:58:34.180 align:middle line:90% Thanks, Calla. 01:58:34.180 --> 01:58:36.430 align:middle line:84% And I first want to begin by saying thank you 01:58:36.430 --> 01:58:38.320 align:middle line:84% to Chairs Moran and Brownsberger as well 01:58:38.320 --> 01:58:40.060 align:middle line:84% as the membership of the Redistricting Committee 01:58:40.060 --> 01:58:41.740 align:middle line:84% for allowing us the opportunity to speak 01:58:41.740 --> 01:58:43.570 align:middle line:90% on this important issue. 01:58:43.570 --> 01:58:44.860 align:middle line:90% My name is Anthony Collins. 01:58:44.860 --> 01:58:47.200 align:middle line:84% I'm currently a Roxbury resident and a constituent 01:58:47.200 --> 01:58:49.102 align:middle line:84% of the 7th Suffolk District, though I've 01:58:49.102 --> 01:58:51.310 align:middle line:84% worked and volunteered on a number of local elections 01:58:51.310 --> 01:58:53.620 align:middle line:84% across the 7th congressional district. 01:58:53.620 --> 01:58:56.110 align:middle line:84% As I'm sure you all know, the concept of gerrymandering 01:58:56.110 --> 01:58:58.450 align:middle line:84% began in our own Commonwealth of Massachusetts. 01:58:58.450 --> 01:59:02.440 align:middle line:84% In a state with an 85% Democratic supermajority, 01:59:02.440 --> 01:59:04.390 align:middle line:84% one might assume that gerrymandering would not 01:59:04.390 --> 01:59:05.390 align:middle line:90% be an issue. 01:59:05.390 --> 01:59:08.560 align:middle line:84% However, examining the way state House districts have been cut, 01:59:08.560 --> 01:59:11.680 align:middle line:84% particularly in and around the 7th congressional district, 01:59:11.680 --> 01:59:14.860 align:middle line:84% it's clear that the practice has persisted despite-- 01:59:14.860 --> 01:59:18.228 align:middle line:84% or perhaps because of-- our Democratic supermajority. 01:59:18.228 --> 01:59:20.020 align:middle line:84% There are a number of state House districts 01:59:20.020 --> 01:59:22.540 align:middle line:84% that demonstrate clear instances of gerrymandering 01:59:22.540 --> 01:59:24.370 align:middle line:84% in order to dilute the votes of people 01:59:24.370 --> 01:59:28.450 align:middle line:84% of color, particularly Black folks and Hispanic or Latinx 01:59:28.450 --> 01:59:29.170 align:middle line:90% folks. 01:59:29.170 --> 01:59:30.880 align:middle line:84% I respectfully ask that you all look 01:59:30.880 --> 01:59:34.000 align:middle line:84% to the municipalities of Chelsea, Milton, Randolph, 01:59:34.000 --> 01:59:35.860 align:middle line:90% Revere, and Winthrop. 01:59:35.860 --> 01:59:38.110 align:middle line:84% Chelsea and Revere have two of the highest percentages 01:59:38.110 --> 01:59:40.060 align:middle line:84% of Hispanic and Latinx residents, 01:59:40.060 --> 01:59:43.300 align:middle line:84% yet they're both split between two House districts each, where 01:59:43.300 --> 01:59:45.580 align:middle line:84% they're grouped with noticeably whiter, wealthier, 01:59:45.580 --> 01:59:47.470 align:middle line:90% and more conservative areas. 01:59:47.470 --> 01:59:50.350 align:middle line:84% Randolph has one of the highest percentages of Black residents 01:59:50.350 --> 01:59:52.930 align:middle line:84% in the Commonwealth, yet it's split between three House 01:59:52.930 --> 01:59:53.830 align:middle line:90% districts. 01:59:53.830 --> 01:59:57.010 align:middle line:84% On the other hand, Winthrop, which is overwhelmingly white, 01:59:57.010 --> 01:59:59.800 align:middle line:84% is placed into one individual House district. 01:59:59.800 --> 02:00:03.190 align:middle line:84% 80% of Milton, which is also overwhelmingly white, 02:00:03.190 --> 02:00:05.800 align:middle line:84% is almost entirely in one House district. 02:00:05.800 --> 02:00:08.680 align:middle line:84% And of the two precincts that are separated, 02:00:08.680 --> 02:00:11.470 align:middle line:84% precincts 1 and 3, one of them is 02:00:11.470 --> 02:00:13.840 align:middle line:84% one of the most white precincts, while the other is one 02:00:13.840 --> 02:00:15.850 align:middle line:90% of the least white precincts. 02:00:15.850 --> 02:00:18.730 align:middle line:84% Clearly, there are numerous instances of the dual concepts 02:00:18.730 --> 02:00:21.700 align:middle line:84% of cracking and packing targeted demographics-- in this case, 02:00:21.700 --> 02:00:24.430 align:middle line:84% in Black and Hispanic and Latinx voters-- 02:00:24.430 --> 02:00:27.310 align:middle line:84% that define gerrymandering at the state House level. 02:00:27.310 --> 02:00:29.710 align:middle line:84% I respectfully ask that the Redistricting Committee 02:00:29.710 --> 02:00:31.510 align:middle line:84% take these wrongs into consideration 02:00:31.510 --> 02:00:32.890 align:middle line:90% and attempt to right them. 02:00:32.890 --> 02:00:36.220 align:middle line:84% Consider giving Chelsea, Revere, Randolph, and even 02:00:36.220 --> 02:00:38.230 align:middle line:84% parts of Boston the representation 02:00:38.230 --> 02:00:39.760 align:middle line:84% that they deserve by not diluting 02:00:39.760 --> 02:00:42.340 align:middle line:84% the votes of these groups as has been done in the past 02:00:42.340 --> 02:00:43.810 align:middle line:90% and continues to this day. 02:00:43.810 --> 02:00:46.670 align:middle line:84% When you redraw these districts, please consider drawing them 02:00:46.670 --> 02:00:50.350 align:middle line:84% so that these communities have at least a chance of voting 02:00:50.350 --> 02:00:51.940 align:middle line:84% in someone to represent them who looks 02:00:51.940 --> 02:00:54.520 align:middle line:84% like a majority of their residents. 02:00:54.520 --> 02:00:56.860 align:middle line:84% Sincerely, thank you so much for your time 02:00:56.860 --> 02:00:59.080 align:middle line:84% and your consideration of this issue. 02:00:59.080 --> 02:01:01.420 align:middle line:90% And I'll pass it over to Juan. 02:01:01.420 --> 02:01:02.320 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Anthony. 02:01:02.320 --> 02:01:03.520 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Calla. 02:01:03.520 --> 02:01:05.500 align:middle line:84% Good morning, and thank you, Committee chairs, 02:01:05.500 --> 02:01:08.110 align:middle line:84% Senator Brownsberger and Representative Moran, 02:01:08.110 --> 02:01:09.610 align:middle line:84% as well as members of the Committee, 02:01:09.610 --> 02:01:11.980 align:middle line:90% for hosting this public hearing. 02:01:11.980 --> 02:01:15.190 align:middle line:84% My name is Juan Gallego, and I have been a resident of Chelsea 02:01:15.190 --> 02:01:17.110 align:middle line:90% since 2006. 02:01:17.110 --> 02:01:19.990 align:middle line:84% Today, I'm here in support of a redistricting process that 02:01:19.990 --> 02:01:23.080 align:middle line:84% will provide Chelsea with proportional representation 02:01:23.080 --> 02:01:26.230 align:middle line:84% in our House legislative districts. 02:01:26.230 --> 02:01:28.810 align:middle line:84% My hometown of Chelsea is a special place. 02:01:28.810 --> 02:01:31.660 align:middle line:84% It is Massachusetts' smallest city geographically, 02:01:31.660 --> 02:01:35.440 align:middle line:84% a whopping 1.8 square miles, but a resilient and supportive 02:01:35.440 --> 02:01:38.950 align:middle line:84% community made up of hardworking residents, mostly immigrants 02:01:38.950 --> 02:01:42.490 align:middle line:84% themselves or of Latin American descent. 02:01:42.490 --> 02:01:44.530 align:middle line:84% Representation matters, and Chelsea 02:01:44.530 --> 02:01:46.270 align:middle line:84% deserves to be represented by those 02:01:46.270 --> 02:01:49.720 align:middle line:84% with similar lived experiences who reflect the diversity, 02:01:49.720 --> 02:01:54.580 align:middle line:84% values, and needs that our residents deserve. 02:01:54.580 --> 02:01:57.670 align:middle line:84% Chelsea is currently split up into two districts, where 02:01:57.670 --> 02:01:59.950 align:middle line:84% on one end of the city, we share representation 02:01:59.950 --> 02:02:02.320 align:middle line:84% with the community of Charlestown, and on the other, 02:02:02.320 --> 02:02:03.940 align:middle line:90% with Revere and Saugus-- 02:02:03.940 --> 02:02:06.790 align:middle line:84% all wonderful communities, but communities whose needs 02:02:06.790 --> 02:02:08.870 align:middle line:84% differ from those of our residents. 02:02:08.870 --> 02:02:11.320 align:middle line:84% The issues of our community, many exacerbated 02:02:11.320 --> 02:02:15.640 align:middle line:84% by the COVID-19 pandemic, range from issues of inequality, 02:02:15.640 --> 02:02:18.130 align:middle line:84% poverty, food and housing insecurity, 02:02:18.130 --> 02:02:21.310 align:middle line:84% environmental injustice, and language barriers-- 02:02:21.310 --> 02:02:23.890 align:middle line:84% issues that require an intentional redistricting 02:02:23.890 --> 02:02:27.460 align:middle line:84% process that considers the needs of our residents separately 02:02:27.460 --> 02:02:29.710 align:middle line:84% from those of surrounding communities. 02:02:29.710 --> 02:02:31.630 align:middle line:84% During the redistricting process, 02:02:31.630 --> 02:02:33.550 align:middle line:84% I urge the committee to consciously 02:02:33.550 --> 02:02:36.520 align:middle line:84% account for immigrants and those most marginalized 02:02:36.520 --> 02:02:37.660 align:middle line:90% in our community. 02:02:37.660 --> 02:02:40.300 align:middle line:84% For decades, our city's immigrant population 02:02:40.300 --> 02:02:43.120 align:middle line:84% has been undercounted, some estimates 02:02:43.120 --> 02:02:46.450 align:middle line:84% indicating that between 15% to 30% of residents 02:02:46.450 --> 02:02:48.460 align:middle line:90% are systematically neglected. 02:02:48.460 --> 02:02:50.500 align:middle line:84% As a result, we have been deprived 02:02:50.500 --> 02:02:52.930 align:middle line:84% of a fair share of federal and state aid 02:02:52.930 --> 02:02:56.110 align:middle line:84% and direct representation at the state House. 02:02:56.110 --> 02:02:58.180 align:middle line:84% It is no surprise then, unfortunately, 02:02:58.180 --> 02:03:00.820 align:middle line:84% that our community would be disproportionately affected 02:03:00.820 --> 02:03:04.210 align:middle line:84% by the pandemic crisis, where we saw Chelsea become 02:03:04.210 --> 02:03:07.600 align:middle line:84% the epicenter of the pandemic outbreak, with infection rates 02:03:07.600 --> 02:03:10.960 align:middle line:84% six times higher than those of other Massachusetts cities, 02:03:10.960 --> 02:03:13.810 align:middle line:84% and even greater than those in New York City. 02:03:13.810 --> 02:03:15.550 align:middle line:84% Chelsea deserves a House district 02:03:15.550 --> 02:03:18.920 align:middle line:84% that reflects the unique and urgent needs of our community, 02:03:18.920 --> 02:03:21.670 align:middle line:84% particularly after such a tumultuous year. 02:03:21.670 --> 02:03:24.460 align:middle line:84% Our city needs representation that empowers our voice 02:03:24.460 --> 02:03:25.990 align:middle line:90% in the legislature. 02:03:25.990 --> 02:03:28.133 align:middle line:84% Thank you once more to the chairs and the Committee 02:03:28.133 --> 02:03:29.800 align:middle line:84% members for hosting this public hearing, 02:03:29.800 --> 02:03:31.460 align:middle line:90% and thank you for your time. 02:03:31.460 --> 02:03:34.700 align:middle line:84% And I will pass it over to Minnah. 02:03:34.700 --> 02:03:37.490 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Juan, Calla, and Anthony. 02:03:37.490 --> 02:03:40.040 align:middle line:84% In addition, thank you to the Redistricting Committee chairs, 02:03:40.040 --> 02:03:42.347 align:middle line:84% Senator Brownsberg and Representative Moran, 02:03:42.347 --> 02:03:44.180 align:middle line:84% alongside the other members of the Committee 02:03:44.180 --> 02:03:46.280 align:middle line:90% for hosting this hearing. 02:03:46.280 --> 02:03:50.090 align:middle line:84% My name is Minnah Sheikh, and I'm a resident of Revere. 02:03:50.090 --> 02:03:52.700 align:middle line:84% I'd like to begin by sharing one of my favorite parts 02:03:52.700 --> 02:03:53.780 align:middle line:90% about organizing. 02:03:53.780 --> 02:03:56.720 align:middle line:84% It's the community outreach, walking through neighborhoods 02:03:56.720 --> 02:04:00.200 align:middle line:84% and having conversations, listening, understanding, 02:04:00.200 --> 02:04:01.430 align:middle line:90% connecting. 02:04:01.430 --> 02:04:05.300 align:middle line:84% In the words of Ernesto Sirolli, the future of every community 02:04:05.300 --> 02:04:08.150 align:middle line:84% lies in capturing the passion, imagination, 02:04:08.150 --> 02:04:10.550 align:middle line:90% and resources of its people. 02:04:10.550 --> 02:04:12.230 align:middle line:84% But what happens when neighborhoods, 02:04:12.230 --> 02:04:14.780 align:middle line:84% let alone neighbors, fall under different districts? 02:04:14.780 --> 02:04:18.650 align:middle line:84% What happens when communities cannot capture their passion 02:04:18.650 --> 02:04:22.020 align:middle line:84% and imagination and resources together? 02:04:22.020 --> 02:04:23.870 align:middle line:90% Let's look at Revere's Ward 3. 02:04:23.870 --> 02:04:26.990 align:middle line:84% On the Rivera street corridor, the even numbers of the street 02:04:26.990 --> 02:04:30.080 align:middle line:84% fall into different House districts than the odd ones. 02:04:30.080 --> 02:04:32.240 align:middle line:84% Revere is broken into two Massachusetts House 02:04:32.240 --> 02:04:35.360 align:middle line:84% districts, the 16th and 19th Suffolk Districts. 02:04:35.360 --> 02:04:37.590 align:middle line:84% 16th Suffolk District encapsulates 02:04:37.590 --> 02:04:41.240 align:middle line:84% Saugus and Chelsea, and the 19th embraces Winthrop. 02:04:41.240 --> 02:04:44.060 align:middle line:84% Although close in proximity, these cities and towns 02:04:44.060 --> 02:04:45.890 align:middle line:90% are considerably different. 02:04:45.890 --> 02:04:48.650 align:middle line:84% As a young person who graduated high school less than a month 02:04:48.650 --> 02:04:51.230 align:middle line:84% ago, I'd like to dive into a part of my life 02:04:51.230 --> 02:04:53.930 align:middle line:84% that I think after four years, kind of, 02:04:53.930 --> 02:04:55.550 align:middle line:90% certifies me as an expert-- 02:04:55.550 --> 02:04:56.700 align:middle line:90% high school. 02:04:56.700 --> 02:04:59.900 align:middle line:84% Let's look at my graduating class in the districts Revere 02:04:59.900 --> 02:05:01.310 align:middle line:90% is included within. 02:05:01.310 --> 02:05:03.650 align:middle line:84% According to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary 02:05:03.650 --> 02:05:07.730 align:middle line:84% and Secondary Education, Winthrop High had 146 Seniors, 02:05:07.730 --> 02:05:12.410 align:middle line:84% Saugus High had 167, Chelsea had 331. 02:05:12.410 --> 02:05:16.670 align:middle line:84% My Revere High graduating class had 484 students. 02:05:16.670 --> 02:05:19.880 align:middle line:84% But so what if Revere had a few more students in a grade? 02:05:19.880 --> 02:05:22.160 align:middle line:84% Diving into the racial makeup, Winthrop High 02:05:22.160 --> 02:05:26.570 align:middle line:84% is made up of over 80% white students, and close to 70% 02:05:26.570 --> 02:05:27.830 align:middle line:90% in Saugus. 02:05:27.830 --> 02:05:31.970 align:middle line:84% Revere has a 58% Hispanic student population. 02:05:31.970 --> 02:05:35.940 align:middle line:84% Our schools serve as a microcosm for our communities. 02:05:35.940 --> 02:05:39.120 align:middle line:84% Our students are what our future looks like. 02:05:39.120 --> 02:05:41.540 align:middle line:84% But that's only the Mass House district. 02:05:41.540 --> 02:05:44.450 align:middle line:84% Revere falls under the first Middlesex and Suffolk Mass 02:05:44.450 --> 02:05:47.270 align:middle line:84% Senate district, allotting even more drastically 02:05:47.270 --> 02:05:49.430 align:middle line:84% different communities like Revere, Chinatown, 02:05:49.430 --> 02:05:52.400 align:middle line:84% Cambridgeport, East Boston, and the North End, 02:05:52.400 --> 02:05:55.310 align:middle line:84% and Winthrop in the same Senator. 02:05:55.310 --> 02:05:57.708 align:middle line:84% Representation matters, and that is 02:05:57.708 --> 02:05:59.750 align:middle line:84% why I urge this committee to keep Revere together 02:05:59.750 --> 02:06:02.960 align:middle line:84% as Massachusetts House district, and allot a place in the Senate 02:06:02.960 --> 02:06:05.840 align:middle line:84% district that parallels the communities like its own. 02:06:05.840 --> 02:06:07.340 align:middle line:84% I thank the Chairs and the Committee 02:06:07.340 --> 02:06:09.650 align:middle line:84% once again for their time and their efforts 02:06:09.650 --> 02:06:12.124 align:middle line:84% towards creating a more equitable Massachusetts. 02:06:12.124 --> 02:06:15.090 align:middle line:90% 02:06:15.090 --> 02:06:16.768 align:middle line:90% Great. 02:06:16.768 --> 02:06:18.060 align:middle line:90% Thank the members of the panel. 02:06:18.060 --> 02:06:19.952 align:middle line:90% Thank you all for your thoughts. 02:06:19.952 --> 02:06:24.830 align:middle line:84% I appreciate the thoughts that you're giving to this. 02:06:24.830 --> 02:06:27.740 align:middle line:84% Are there questions for members of the panel? 02:06:27.740 --> 02:06:29.790 align:middle line:90% Chairman Moran. 02:06:29.790 --> 02:06:32.100 align:middle line:90% Just a couple of things. 02:06:32.100 --> 02:06:35.400 align:middle line:84% I can agree-- I agree with Juan 100%. 02:06:35.400 --> 02:06:39.570 align:middle line:84% There has been and always will be undercounting 02:06:39.570 --> 02:06:44.160 align:middle line:84% in especially immigrant cities and towns, 02:06:44.160 --> 02:06:46.980 align:middle line:84% for obvious reasons of maybe distrust or whatever-- 02:06:46.980 --> 02:06:49.810 align:middle line:90% of not wanting to be counted. 02:06:49.810 --> 02:06:53.430 align:middle line:84% So working with Beth Huang and the entire Drawing Democracy 02:06:53.430 --> 02:06:57.585 align:middle line:84% Coalition, going back, jeez, 2 and 1/2 years ago-- 02:06:57.585 --> 02:07:00.720 align:middle line:84% when we put $2.5 million in the state budget 02:07:00.720 --> 02:07:03.270 align:middle line:84% to create an accurate count committee 02:07:03.270 --> 02:07:06.570 align:middle line:84% that was administered by the secretary of state 02:07:06.570 --> 02:07:09.120 align:middle line:84% to go to areas that were hard to count. 02:07:09.120 --> 02:07:12.570 align:middle line:84% Those grants were supposed to go to nonprofits 02:07:12.570 --> 02:07:16.320 align:middle line:84% that were assisting with that process of counting people. 02:07:16.320 --> 02:07:21.150 align:middle line:84% And my hope is that the census admits that their count was 02:07:21.150 --> 02:07:23.190 align:middle line:90% about 140,000. 02:07:23.190 --> 02:07:26.220 align:middle line:84% Some are lower than they anticipated. 02:07:26.220 --> 02:07:31.290 align:middle line:84% My hope is that that money we put into these organizations 02:07:31.290 --> 02:07:35.580 align:middle line:84% actually worked, and maybe areas like Chelsea and Springfield 02:07:35.580 --> 02:07:38.430 align:middle line:84% and areas like that who are, generally 02:07:38.430 --> 02:07:41.693 align:middle line:84% speaking, hard-to-count populations, 02:07:41.693 --> 02:07:42.610 align:middle line:90% were actually counted. 02:07:42.610 --> 02:07:44.280 align:middle line:90% And that would be great. 02:07:44.280 --> 02:07:45.820 align:middle line:90% So that's one thing. 02:07:45.820 --> 02:07:52.290 align:middle line:84% The second thing, more towards Anthony and House districts-- 02:07:52.290 --> 02:07:57.480 align:middle line:84% you should know that 43 of the states in the country 02:07:57.480 --> 02:08:00.390 align:middle line:90% were used 10 years ago. 02:08:00.390 --> 02:08:02.940 align:middle line:90% Only seven were not. 02:08:02.940 --> 02:08:05.820 align:middle line:84% We were one of the seven that were not. 02:08:05.820 --> 02:08:10.470 align:middle line:84% We were the largest and the most diverse state that wasn't sued. 02:08:10.470 --> 02:08:17.250 align:middle line:84% That's because 10 years ago, there was not a single district 02:08:17.250 --> 02:08:20.790 align:middle line:84% that you could draw on the House maps, 02:08:20.790 --> 02:08:24.240 align:middle line:84% and I believe on the Senate, working with Senator-- 02:08:24.240 --> 02:08:28.958 align:middle line:90% 02:08:28.958 --> 02:08:30.000 align:middle line:90% I'm sorry, I'm blanking-- 02:08:30.000 --> 02:08:30.870 align:middle line:90% Rosenberg. 02:08:30.870 --> 02:08:32.460 align:middle line:90% Rosenberg. 02:08:32.460 --> 02:08:35.040 align:middle line:84% It was physically impossible to draw 02:08:35.040 --> 02:08:39.220 align:middle line:84% another majority-minority district on all those maps. 02:08:39.220 --> 02:08:43.790 align:middle line:84% So the reason we were not sued is because we did that, 02:08:43.790 --> 02:08:46.470 align:middle line:90% and I think it's worth noting. 02:08:46.470 --> 02:08:48.120 align:middle line:90% That doesn't mean we stop there. 02:08:48.120 --> 02:08:51.870 align:middle line:84% That means this process, we take a fresh look at it, 02:08:51.870 --> 02:08:57.960 align:middle line:84% and we see if areas like Chelsea and Revere and Everett 02:08:57.960 --> 02:09:00.900 align:middle line:84% do have the population that has matured 02:09:00.900 --> 02:09:04.530 align:middle line:84% and now can sustain a majority-minority district. 02:09:04.530 --> 02:09:07.710 align:middle line:84% And Randolph-- and we're going to do that, 02:09:07.710 --> 02:09:09.210 align:middle line:84% because that's one of the principles 02:09:09.210 --> 02:09:10.540 align:middle line:90% that we have in place. 02:09:10.540 --> 02:09:13.140 align:middle line:84% But I still do defend what happened 10 years ago, 02:09:13.140 --> 02:09:16.770 align:middle line:84% because it was something that wouldn't 02:09:16.770 --> 02:09:19.420 align:middle line:84% have happened without advocates, many of whom are on this call. 02:09:19.420 --> 02:09:21.420 align:middle line:84% And I think it's something we should be proud of 02:09:21.420 --> 02:09:24.270 align:middle line:84% and we should actually in some ways 02:09:24.270 --> 02:09:27.087 align:middle line:84% take credit for, but also not rest there 02:09:27.087 --> 02:09:28.170 align:middle line:90% and say we've done enough. 02:09:28.170 --> 02:09:29.230 align:middle line:90% So that was all. 02:09:29.230 --> 02:09:31.230 align:middle line:84% Just wanted to point out those couple of things. 02:09:31.230 --> 02:09:32.990 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Senator. 02:09:32.990 --> 02:09:35.700 align:middle line:90% Thank you so much, Chairman. 02:09:35.700 --> 02:09:42.630 align:middle line:84% Other thoughts, questions from members of the Committee? 02:09:42.630 --> 02:09:45.760 align:middle line:84% Any last comments from the panel? 02:09:45.760 --> 02:09:48.210 align:middle line:84% I just want to actually thank Chairman Moran. 02:09:48.210 --> 02:09:49.440 align:middle line:90% I didn't know that. 02:09:49.440 --> 02:09:51.840 align:middle line:84% I appreciate that note, and I also just really 02:09:51.840 --> 02:09:54.975 align:middle line:84% appreciate you noting that the work doesn't stop, 02:09:54.975 --> 02:09:57.100 align:middle line:84% that there's always more that we can do about this. 02:09:57.100 --> 02:09:59.300 align:middle line:90% So thank you, Chairman. 02:09:59.300 --> 02:09:59.800 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 02:09:59.800 --> 02:10:07.050 align:middle line:84% And I want to lift up the statement 02:10:07.050 --> 02:10:11.730 align:middle line:84% from Congresswoman Pressley in the chat, thanking everybody 02:10:11.730 --> 02:10:15.060 align:middle line:84% for their testimony and, in particular, the panel 02:10:15.060 --> 02:10:17.202 align:middle line:90% that's testifying right now-- 02:10:17.202 --> 02:10:18.660 align:middle line:84% "bearing witness to," and I'm going 02:10:18.660 --> 02:10:21.367 align:middle line:84% to quote, "an unprecedented moment of diverse youth, voice, 02:10:21.367 --> 02:10:22.200 align:middle line:90% and leadership here. 02:10:22.200 --> 02:10:25.200 align:middle line:84% They possess impressive acumen, which 02:10:25.200 --> 02:10:27.210 align:middle line:90% comes from deep organizing." 02:10:27.210 --> 02:10:33.605 align:middle line:84% And so thank you, Congresswoman Pressley, for those comments. 02:10:33.605 --> 02:10:36.230 align:middle line:90% 02:10:36.230 --> 02:10:38.840 align:middle line:84% All right, so I'm going to go now 02:10:38.840 --> 02:10:42.800 align:middle line:84% to a panel from East Boston, including 02:10:42.800 --> 02:10:47.600 align:middle line:84% John Walkey, Dr. Neenah Estrella-Luna, and Marcos Luna. 02:10:47.600 --> 02:10:59.810 align:middle line:90% 02:10:59.810 --> 02:11:03.530 align:middle line:84% OK, you called on John Walkey to speak? 02:11:03.530 --> 02:11:07.970 align:middle line:84% Yes, with your panelists, Dr. Luna and Mr. Luna. 02:11:07.970 --> 02:11:13.070 align:middle line:84% I see you all and look forward to your testimony. 02:11:13.070 --> 02:11:15.330 align:middle line:90% Great, thank you very much. 02:11:15.330 --> 02:11:16.520 align:middle line:90% So my name is John Walkey. 02:11:16.520 --> 02:11:19.610 align:middle line:84% I work at GreenRoots here in Chelsea. 02:11:19.610 --> 02:11:21.110 align:middle line:84% We work in Chelsea and East Boston. 02:11:21.110 --> 02:11:26.930 align:middle line:84% I've been a resident of East Boston for the past 15 years. 02:11:26.930 --> 02:11:30.530 align:middle line:84% And I just want to first off echo much 02:11:30.530 --> 02:11:31.910 align:middle line:90% of what's already been said. 02:11:31.910 --> 02:11:34.590 align:middle line:84% And given the history that we've heard of here, 02:11:34.590 --> 02:11:36.860 align:middle line:84% I don't think there's too much that I 02:11:36.860 --> 02:11:39.140 align:middle line:84% can add that you don't already know 02:11:39.140 --> 02:11:42.050 align:middle line:84% as being pretty successful at doing this work, 02:11:42.050 --> 02:11:45.860 align:middle line:84% but maintaining the 7th congressional district 02:11:45.860 --> 02:11:47.660 align:middle line:90% is a pretty important thing. 02:11:47.660 --> 02:11:51.440 align:middle line:84% And more importantly, it's the logic behind the creation 02:11:51.440 --> 02:11:56.070 align:middle line:84% of that district of giving voice to people of color, 02:11:56.070 --> 02:11:58.160 align:middle line:84% to immigrants, low-income residents-- 02:11:58.160 --> 02:11:59.690 align:middle line:84% is a pretty critical one, especially 02:11:59.690 --> 02:12:03.740 align:middle line:84% as it shakes out through the state House and Senate 02:12:03.740 --> 02:12:06.020 align:middle line:90% districts. 02:12:06.020 --> 02:12:08.850 align:middle line:84% And as a little bit of background, 02:12:08.850 --> 02:12:12.260 align:middle line:84% because in listening to the testimony from Minnah 02:12:12.260 --> 02:12:18.290 align:middle line:84% as she spoke about the demographics of the graduating 02:12:18.290 --> 02:12:18.800 align:middle line:90% classes-- 02:12:18.800 --> 02:12:22.670 align:middle line:84% I was born in Lynn and raised in Saugus, went to high school 02:12:22.670 --> 02:12:25.280 align:middle line:84% in Malden, family living in Revere. 02:12:25.280 --> 02:12:27.290 align:middle line:84% And my family originally came to this country 02:12:27.290 --> 02:12:28.790 align:middle line:90% through East Boston. 02:12:28.790 --> 02:12:31.040 align:middle line:84% So this, sort of-- what we've, sort of, 02:12:31.040 --> 02:12:35.390 align:middle line:84% defined as the Chelsea issue, really 02:12:35.390 --> 02:12:38.720 align:middle line:84% is, sort of, the near North Shore issue. 02:12:38.720 --> 02:12:45.350 align:middle line:84% And I don't really envy the task of trying to figure out 02:12:45.350 --> 02:12:47.720 align:middle line:84% this map as everything underneath you 02:12:47.720 --> 02:12:49.430 align:middle line:90% is moving at the same time. 02:12:49.430 --> 02:12:51.320 align:middle line:84% You're on a moving train, doing this. 02:12:51.320 --> 02:12:53.960 align:middle line:84% Obviously, in the last 10 years in East Boston, 02:12:53.960 --> 02:12:56.810 align:middle line:84% it's been a tremendous amount of demographic change, 02:12:56.810 --> 02:13:00.680 align:middle line:84% as the forces of gentrification have really pushed out 02:13:00.680 --> 02:13:03.740 align:middle line:84% a lot of long-term residents-- both newcomers, 02:13:03.740 --> 02:13:06.590 align:middle line:84% in terms of Latin American immigrants, 02:13:06.590 --> 02:13:11.090 align:middle line:84% but also old-timers, in terms of the older Italian families who 02:13:11.090 --> 02:13:13.280 align:middle line:84% were just unable to hold on to their properties 02:13:13.280 --> 02:13:16.160 align:middle line:84% as they increase in value so much, 02:13:16.160 --> 02:13:19.370 align:middle line:84% and there is a transfer from one generation to the next. 02:13:19.370 --> 02:13:21.410 align:middle line:84% And a lot of what we're seeing in our 02:13:21.410 --> 02:13:25.490 align:middle line:84% work with the Latino immigrant community-- 02:13:25.490 --> 02:13:29.098 align:middle line:84% when I go back to Saugus, it's amazing. 02:13:29.098 --> 02:13:30.140 align:middle line:90% Minnah said there was a-- 02:13:30.140 --> 02:13:32.870 align:middle line:90% 70% in Saugus was white. 02:13:32.870 --> 02:13:37.730 align:middle line:84% Well, when I was growing up, the graduating class in 1988 02:13:37.730 --> 02:13:40.740 align:middle line:84% was pretty much close to 100% white. 02:13:40.740 --> 02:13:43.490 align:middle line:84% I mean, a lot of the folks who are being displaced 02:13:43.490 --> 02:13:48.080 align:middle line:84% from Chelsea, being displaced from East Boston, 02:13:48.080 --> 02:13:49.550 align:middle line:84% from all of this area are, sort of, 02:13:49.550 --> 02:13:53.390 align:middle line:84% squeezing out north into Lynn, into Saugus. 02:13:53.390 --> 02:13:57.200 align:middle line:84% And the concerns that have already been mentioned 02:13:57.200 --> 02:14:02.390 align:middle line:84% by Chairman Moran about the hard-to-reach populations-- 02:14:02.390 --> 02:14:05.960 align:middle line:84% a lot of the folks who are moving into places like Saugus 02:14:05.960 --> 02:14:08.090 align:middle line:84% from East Boston are many of these folks who 02:14:08.090 --> 02:14:10.910 align:middle line:84% are undocumented, people that are going 02:14:10.910 --> 02:14:14.480 align:middle line:84% to be hard to find in the census results that will be coming out 02:14:14.480 --> 02:14:16.700 align:middle line:90% in a month or so. 02:14:16.700 --> 02:14:19.950 align:middle line:84% So we can only work with the numbers that we have, 02:14:19.950 --> 02:14:21.740 align:middle line:84% but as you're placing those numbers down 02:14:21.740 --> 02:14:23.890 align:middle line:84% and you're figuring out how to do 02:14:23.890 --> 02:14:25.640 align:middle line:84% what you've done successfully in the past, 02:14:25.640 --> 02:14:31.700 align:middle line:84% how to give a voice to these communities of interest, 02:14:31.700 --> 02:14:35.060 align:middle line:84% I think it's important to also, kind of, 02:14:35.060 --> 02:14:40.250 align:middle line:84% try to forecast a little bit of what's coming up in the future. 02:14:40.250 --> 02:14:44.720 align:middle line:84% Because obviously, this stuff is changing rapidly. 02:14:44.720 --> 02:14:46.550 align:middle line:84% Just the last five years in East Boston 02:14:46.550 --> 02:14:49.580 align:middle line:84% has been tremendously drastic, the changes. 02:14:49.580 --> 02:14:52.220 align:middle line:84% It's occurring in Chelsea bit by bit, 02:14:52.220 --> 02:14:54.590 align:middle line:84% and we're seeing things get expensive in Lynn. 02:14:54.590 --> 02:15:00.050 align:middle line:84% So of all this area and this Chelsea-issue zone, 02:15:00.050 --> 02:15:04.430 align:middle line:84% we can probably guess where folks are going out to. 02:15:04.430 --> 02:15:09.320 align:middle line:84% And so hopefully, as we work out the Senate and representative 02:15:09.320 --> 02:15:13.790 align:middle line:84% districts, we can keep that in mind. 02:15:13.790 --> 02:15:16.880 align:middle line:84% It's going to be a challenge, but I 02:15:16.880 --> 02:15:19.320 align:middle line:84% think based on your track record, you're up for it. 02:15:19.320 --> 02:15:24.230 align:middle line:84% And I know that with folks like Suzanne Lee and others here-- 02:15:24.230 --> 02:15:28.070 align:middle line:84% I think there's a good back bench of advocates 02:15:28.070 --> 02:15:30.530 align:middle line:84% who are more than willing to step up and help out 02:15:30.530 --> 02:15:33.710 align:middle line:84% with you to just make the call, and I'm 02:15:33.710 --> 02:15:36.170 align:middle line:84% sure you'll get some input on a lot of this. 02:15:36.170 --> 02:15:40.130 align:middle line:84% And I will stop there and hand it over 02:15:40.130 --> 02:15:42.840 align:middle line:90% to my colleagues and neighbors. 02:15:42.840 --> 02:15:43.340 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 02:15:43.340 --> 02:15:49.340 align:middle line:90% 02:15:49.340 --> 02:15:50.400 align:middle line:90% All right, I'll go next. 02:15:50.400 --> 02:15:51.920 align:middle line:90% Thanks, John. 02:15:51.920 --> 02:15:54.110 align:middle line:84% Thank you to the Redistricting Committee 02:15:54.110 --> 02:15:56.360 align:middle line:84% chairs Senator Brownsberger and Representative Moran 02:15:56.360 --> 02:15:57.800 align:middle line:84% as well as the rest of the members of the Committee 02:15:57.800 --> 02:15:59.690 align:middle line:90% for hosting this public hearing. 02:15:59.690 --> 02:16:02.900 align:middle line:84% My name is Marcos Luna, and I am a Professor of Geography 02:16:02.900 --> 02:16:05.540 align:middle line:84% and Sustainability and Coordinator of the Graduate 02:16:05.540 --> 02:16:08.330 align:middle line:84% Geo-Information Sciences Program at Salem State University 02:16:08.330 --> 02:16:09.950 align:middle line:90% in Salem, Massachusetts. 02:16:09.950 --> 02:16:11.600 align:middle line:84% I'm also a resident and homeowner 02:16:11.600 --> 02:16:14.602 align:middle line:84% in East Boston, where I've lived for the past 20 years. 02:16:14.602 --> 02:16:16.310 align:middle line:84% So I speak to you as a concerned resident 02:16:16.310 --> 02:16:19.663 align:middle line:84% and as an expert in geographic and demographic analyses. 02:16:19.663 --> 02:16:21.080 align:middle line:84% The communities that are currently 02:16:21.080 --> 02:16:23.000 align:middle line:84% encompassed by the 7th congressional district 02:16:23.000 --> 02:16:25.850 align:middle line:84% of Massachusetts, which includes my neighborhood of East Boston, 02:16:25.850 --> 02:16:28.130 align:middle line:84% very clearly constitute a community of interest 02:16:28.130 --> 02:16:29.720 align:middle line:90% that should be preserved. 02:16:29.720 --> 02:16:33.049 align:middle line:84% According to the 2019 American Community Survey estimates, 02:16:33.049 --> 02:16:35.510 align:middle line:84% amongst all congressional districts in the Commonwealth, 02:16:35.510 --> 02:16:37.850 align:middle line:84% the 7th has the distinction of having the highest 02:16:37.850 --> 02:16:40.180 align:middle line:84% concentration of people of color, about 1/2 02:16:40.180 --> 02:16:42.680 align:middle line:84% the population, significantly higher than any other district 02:16:42.680 --> 02:16:45.230 align:middle line:84% in the state, the highest concentration of Black 02:16:45.230 --> 02:16:48.680 align:middle line:84% and Hispanic or Latino people in the state, 1/4 and 1/5 02:16:48.680 --> 02:16:50.930 align:middle line:84% of the population respectively, and if we look at just 02:16:50.930 --> 02:16:53.780 align:middle line:84% the voting age population, also the highest concentration 02:16:53.780 --> 02:16:55.730 align:middle line:90% of Asian residents as well. 02:16:55.730 --> 02:16:58.190 align:middle line:84% The highest concentration of immigrants-- about 1/3 02:16:58.190 --> 02:16:59.540 align:middle line:90% are foreign-born. 02:16:59.540 --> 02:17:01.969 align:middle line:84% Highest concentration of renter-occupied housing units-- 02:17:01.969 --> 02:17:05.389 align:middle line:84% about 2/3 of occupied housing units are rented. 02:17:05.389 --> 02:17:06.889 align:middle line:84% And it has the highest percentage 02:17:06.889 --> 02:17:08.420 align:middle line:90% of families in poverty-- 02:17:08.420 --> 02:17:12.410 align:middle line:84% about 12% of families with incomes below the poverty line. 02:17:12.410 --> 02:17:15.020 align:middle line:84% These statistics are amplified within the communities 02:17:15.020 --> 02:17:16.610 align:middle line:90% that make up the 7th. 02:17:16.610 --> 02:17:18.367 align:middle line:84% Environmental justice designations 02:17:18.367 --> 02:17:20.450 align:middle line:84% of neighborhoods under the recently passed climate 02:17:20.450 --> 02:17:24.469 align:middle line:84% roadmap legislation highlight the common geographic qualities 02:17:24.469 --> 02:17:25.610 align:middle line:90% of these communities. 02:17:25.610 --> 02:17:27.799 align:middle line:84% For example, East Boston, Chelsea, and Everett 02:17:27.799 --> 02:17:29.330 align:middle line:84% share the distinction of being one 02:17:29.330 --> 02:17:31.730 align:middle line:84% of the few contiguous blocks of communities that 02:17:31.730 --> 02:17:34.280 align:middle line:84% have high concentrations of low-income, people-of-color, 02:17:34.280 --> 02:17:36.440 align:middle line:84% and limited-English-speaking households. 02:17:36.440 --> 02:17:39.260 align:middle line:84% This implies a body of common concerns and unique needs 02:17:39.260 --> 02:17:40.610 align:middle line:90% and vulnerabilities. 02:17:40.610 --> 02:17:42.049 align:middle line:84% I think this unique vulnerability 02:17:42.049 --> 02:17:44.200 align:middle line:84% has been highlighted during the pandemic. 02:17:44.200 --> 02:17:46.450 align:middle line:84% These same communities, particularly Everett, Chelsea, 02:17:46.450 --> 02:17:48.440 align:middle line:84% and East Boston, have been the hardest-hit 02:17:48.440 --> 02:17:51.139 align:middle line:84% during the pandemic, not just in terms of higher infection 02:17:51.139 --> 02:17:52.639 align:middle line:84% rates, sickness, and death, but also 02:17:52.639 --> 02:17:56.209 align:middle line:84% in terms of the economic fallout for these essential workers 02:17:56.209 --> 02:18:00.440 align:middle line:84% unable to safely work from home, the so many immigrants who 02:18:00.440 --> 02:18:02.090 align:middle line:84% either did not qualify for support 02:18:02.090 --> 02:18:04.910 align:middle line:84% or feared the repercussions of accepting aid, 02:18:04.910 --> 02:18:06.980 align:middle line:84% or so many renters on the edge of eviction 02:18:06.980 --> 02:18:08.660 align:middle line:90% because of lost income. 02:18:08.660 --> 02:18:11.540 align:middle line:84% These communities share unique social, economic, and cultural 02:18:11.540 --> 02:18:13.670 align:middle line:84% interests that must be respected if they 02:18:13.670 --> 02:18:16.413 align:middle line:84% are to have a chance of equitable representation. 02:18:16.413 --> 02:18:18.080 align:middle line:84% For better or for worse, the communities 02:18:18.080 --> 02:18:20.629 align:middle line:84% that make up the 7th constitute a natural community 02:18:20.629 --> 02:18:22.549 align:middle line:84% with common interests, and therefore it 02:18:22.549 --> 02:18:25.139 align:middle line:84% is important that this community be kept intact. 02:18:25.139 --> 02:18:25.639 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 02:18:25.639 --> 02:18:29.920 align:middle line:90% 02:18:29.920 --> 02:18:30.580 align:middle line:90% Hello. 02:18:30.580 --> 02:18:32.209 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon, everyone. 02:18:32.209 --> 02:18:33.340 align:middle line:90% Thank you for the hearing. 02:18:33.340 --> 02:18:35.059 align:middle line:90% I'm Dr. Neenah Estrella-Luna. 02:18:35.059 --> 02:18:37.570 align:middle line:84% I'm a member of the root council for Neighbors United 02:18:37.570 --> 02:18:39.910 align:middle line:84% for Better East Boston, also known as NUBE. 02:18:39.910 --> 02:18:42.490 align:middle line:84% I'm also a co-facilitator of Mutual Aid Eastie, 02:18:42.490 --> 02:18:45.680 align:middle line:84% and I'm a Social Equity Consultant providing research, 02:18:45.680 --> 02:18:49.000 align:middle line:84% education, and other services on a variety of equity issues. 02:18:49.000 --> 02:18:51.639 align:middle line:84% I'm currently working with the Resilient Mystic Collaborative, 02:18:51.639 --> 02:18:53.200 align:middle line:84% studying the social vulnerability 02:18:53.200 --> 02:18:55.900 align:middle line:84% to climate-change-induced storm impacts 02:18:55.900 --> 02:18:57.820 align:middle line:84% for communities in the Lower Mystic River 02:18:57.820 --> 02:19:00.790 align:middle line:84% area, many of which are in District 7. 02:19:00.790 --> 02:19:04.030 align:middle line:84% And I'm here to argue that East Boston 02:19:04.030 --> 02:19:07.030 align:middle line:84% as a specific and well-defined neighborhood of Boston 02:19:07.030 --> 02:19:10.270 align:middle line:84% be kept intact in the redistricting process. 02:19:10.270 --> 02:19:12.730 align:middle line:84% We are a community of interest for many reasons 02:19:12.730 --> 02:19:14.830 align:middle line:90% as has been described earlier. 02:19:14.830 --> 02:19:18.280 align:middle line:84% The one I will focus on here is climate-change-induced 02:19:18.280 --> 02:19:19.540 align:middle line:90% flooding. 02:19:19.540 --> 02:19:21.430 align:middle line:84% Now, the East Boston that we know today 02:19:21.430 --> 02:19:24.760 align:middle line:84% was created by making land to knit five islands together. 02:19:24.760 --> 02:19:28.120 align:middle line:84% And in doing so, water and wetlands 02:19:28.120 --> 02:19:31.120 align:middle line:84% that could have been used as a buffer to sea level rise 02:19:31.120 --> 02:19:35.559 align:middle line:84% was taken to create Boston Logan International Airport. 02:19:35.559 --> 02:19:39.459 align:middle line:84% People's homes were also taken to create highways and tunnels 02:19:39.459 --> 02:19:41.950 align:middle line:84% to serve whiter and wealthier communities 02:19:41.950 --> 02:19:43.540 align:middle line:90% in the northern suburbs-- 02:19:43.540 --> 02:19:46.120 align:middle line:84% tunnels that we now know will be rendered useless 02:19:46.120 --> 02:19:48.700 align:middle line:90% by the next 100-year storm. 02:19:48.700 --> 02:19:51.890 align:middle line:84% East Boston is almost entirely surrounded by water, 02:19:51.890 --> 02:19:53.830 align:middle line:84% and this is what makes us, in part, 02:19:53.830 --> 02:19:56.860 align:middle line:84% vulnerable to increased flooding from both storm surge 02:19:56.860 --> 02:20:00.100 align:middle line:84% as the seas continue to rise, as well as inland flooding 02:20:00.100 --> 02:20:02.080 align:middle line:90% from increased precipitation. 02:20:02.080 --> 02:20:05.710 align:middle line:84% We're talking about flooding at levels this neighborhood has 02:20:05.710 --> 02:20:06.760 align:middle line:90% rarely seen. 02:20:06.760 --> 02:20:08.860 align:middle line:84% And in fact, some of my neighbors 02:20:08.860 --> 02:20:11.740 align:middle line:84% who lived in their homes for two or three generations 02:20:11.740 --> 02:20:14.890 align:middle line:84% are experiencing flooded basements for the first time, 02:20:14.890 --> 02:20:18.370 align:middle line:84% as storms have already become more intense and more frequent. 02:20:18.370 --> 02:20:22.460 align:middle line:84% These are stories that I've seen on Facebook just this morning. 02:20:22.460 --> 02:20:24.890 align:middle line:84% East Boston, as many of you may know, 02:20:24.890 --> 02:20:26.440 align:middle line:84% has historically been and continues 02:20:26.440 --> 02:20:29.650 align:middle line:84% to be a mostly working-class immigrant neighborhood. 02:20:29.650 --> 02:20:31.750 align:middle line:84% But as John mentioned, it is true 02:20:31.750 --> 02:20:34.720 align:middle line:84% that our neighborhood is beginning to see some change. 02:20:34.720 --> 02:20:37.880 align:middle line:84% Due to speculative development occurring on our waterfront, 02:20:37.880 --> 02:20:39.820 align:middle line:84% we have a different kind of migrants. 02:20:39.820 --> 02:20:42.610 align:middle line:84% Students and young professionals migrating 02:20:42.610 --> 02:20:44.980 align:middle line:84% from different parts of the country and the world 02:20:44.980 --> 02:20:46.750 align:middle line:84% are now moving into the neighborhood 02:20:46.750 --> 02:20:49.900 align:middle line:84% and into the most vulnerable areas. 02:20:49.900 --> 02:20:51.500 align:middle line:90% These folks tend to be mobile. 02:20:51.500 --> 02:20:53.410 align:middle line:84% They also tend to have more wealth, 02:20:53.410 --> 02:20:57.040 align:middle line:84% and they tend to be whiter than our traditional neighbors. 02:20:57.040 --> 02:21:00.520 align:middle line:84% They are nevertheless just as vulnerable 02:21:00.520 --> 02:21:02.290 align:middle line:84% as everyone else in the neighborhood. 02:21:02.290 --> 02:21:05.170 align:middle line:84% Indeed, they may be even more vulnerable 02:21:05.170 --> 02:21:07.000 align:middle line:84% because of the lack of social ties 02:21:07.000 --> 02:21:08.950 align:middle line:84% and community connection that create 02:21:08.950 --> 02:21:12.580 align:middle line:84% true resilience, an issue that NUBE and Mutual Aid 02:21:12.580 --> 02:21:16.430 align:middle line:84% Eastie saw and have tried to address during the pandemic. 02:21:16.430 --> 02:21:19.540 align:middle line:84% Climate change puts every single resident 02:21:19.540 --> 02:21:21.640 align:middle line:84% of East Boston at risk, regardless 02:21:21.640 --> 02:21:25.630 align:middle line:84% of race and ethnicity, wealth, language ability, citizenship 02:21:25.630 --> 02:21:27.190 align:middle line:90% status, or level of education. 02:21:27.190 --> 02:21:29.440 align:middle line:84% And so on this and many other issues that have already 02:21:29.440 --> 02:21:31.570 align:middle line:84% been spoken to by my fellow panelists, 02:21:31.570 --> 02:21:34.960 align:middle line:84% East Boston as a whole is a community of interest. 02:21:34.960 --> 02:21:39.610 align:middle line:84% And by the way, we do share this risk with our closest neighbor 02:21:39.610 --> 02:21:40.810 align:middle line:90% the city of Chelsea. 02:21:40.810 --> 02:21:42.830 align:middle line:84% And while my primary argument is to keep 02:21:42.830 --> 02:21:45.970 align:middle line:84% East Boston intact within congressional district 7, 02:21:45.970 --> 02:21:48.190 align:middle line:84% it is also important that we share the district 02:21:48.190 --> 02:21:50.980 align:middle line:84% with Chelsea, given our many shared populations, 02:21:50.980 --> 02:21:52.170 align:middle line:90% challenges, and risks. 02:21:52.170 --> 02:21:53.920 align:middle line:84% So thank you for the opportunity to speak, 02:21:53.920 --> 02:21:57.670 align:middle line:84% and I'm happy to answer any questions you may have. 02:21:57.670 --> 02:21:59.360 align:middle line:84% Well, I thank all members of your panel 02:21:59.360 --> 02:22:02.720 align:middle line:84% for offering important thoughts on this area, which we are all 02:22:02.720 --> 02:22:05.190 align:middle line:90% giving a lot of attention to. 02:22:05.190 --> 02:22:11.140 align:middle line:84% Other questions from the Committee? 02:22:11.140 --> 02:22:14.540 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 02:22:14.540 --> 02:22:16.540 align:middle line:84% Any last comments from members of the panel? 02:22:16.540 --> 02:22:19.430 align:middle line:90% 02:22:19.430 --> 02:22:19.930 align:middle line:90% OK. 02:22:19.930 --> 02:22:22.450 align:middle line:90% Thank you, thank you. 02:22:22.450 --> 02:22:28.600 align:middle line:84% I'm going now to [? Loren ?] [INAUDIBLE],, 02:22:28.600 --> 02:22:30.970 align:middle line:90% who is from Newton. 02:22:30.970 --> 02:22:33.450 align:middle line:90% Is she here? 02:22:33.450 --> 02:22:36.150 align:middle line:84% I believe we have a city councilor from Somerville 02:22:36.150 --> 02:22:40.020 align:middle line:84% who asked to testify before 12:30 if possible. 02:22:40.020 --> 02:22:41.100 align:middle line:90% Oh, thank you. 02:22:41.100 --> 02:22:43.930 align:middle line:90% 02:22:43.930 --> 02:22:45.340 align:middle line:90% So I can promote him. 02:22:45.340 --> 02:22:47.190 align:middle line:84% What is the name of the councilor? 02:22:47.190 --> 02:22:48.147 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 02:22:48.147 --> 02:22:54.120 align:middle line:90% 02:22:54.120 --> 02:22:55.326 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Maeve. 02:22:55.326 --> 02:22:57.216 align:middle line:90% I recognize the councilor. 02:22:57.216 --> 02:23:04.160 align:middle line:90% 02:23:04.160 --> 02:23:05.770 align:middle line:90% Hello, can you hear me OK? 02:23:05.770 --> 02:23:08.650 align:middle line:90% 02:23:08.650 --> 02:23:09.150 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:23:09.150 --> 02:23:09.983 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 02:23:09.983 --> 02:23:10.510 align:middle line:90% We got you. 02:23:10.510 --> 02:23:12.070 align:middle line:90% Thank you for coming on. 02:23:12.070 --> 02:23:12.790 align:middle line:90% Absolutely. 02:23:12.790 --> 02:23:18.310 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Chair Brownsberger, Chair Moran, 02:23:18.310 --> 02:23:22.060 align:middle line:84% and members of the Committee for the opportunity to testify 02:23:22.060 --> 02:23:26.810 align:middle line:84% and for holding this important hearing for our communities. 02:23:26.810 --> 02:23:27.970 align:middle line:90% My name is Will Mbah. 02:23:27.970 --> 02:23:31.030 align:middle line:84% I'm one of the at-large city councilors in Somerville, 02:23:31.030 --> 02:23:33.700 align:middle line:84% and a candidate for mayor of Somerville. 02:23:33.700 --> 02:23:36.290 align:middle line:84% I'm honored to represent Somerville, 02:23:36.290 --> 02:23:39.220 align:middle line:90% a vibrant and diverse community. 02:23:39.220 --> 02:23:42.120 align:middle line:84% As a proud native of Cameroon and immigrant, 02:23:42.120 --> 02:23:45.580 align:middle line:84% I'm honored to represent Somerville, raise my family, 02:23:45.580 --> 02:23:48.460 align:middle line:84% and also call this community home. 02:23:48.460 --> 02:23:52.030 align:middle line:84% As Congresswoman Pressley, State Representative Uyterhoeven, 02:23:52.030 --> 02:23:54.700 align:middle line:84% and Councilor Scott shared earlier, 02:23:54.700 --> 02:23:57.700 align:middle line:84% Somerville is a unique city with critical communities 02:23:57.700 --> 02:24:00.010 align:middle line:84% of interest, including communities 02:24:00.010 --> 02:24:03.080 align:middle line:84% of color and immigrant communities. 02:24:03.080 --> 02:24:05.690 align:middle line:84% And we face a unique challenge ahead of us, 02:24:05.690 --> 02:24:08.740 align:middle line:84% including environmental justice, housing justice, 02:24:08.740 --> 02:24:13.770 align:middle line:84% transit justice, racial and economic justice. 02:24:13.770 --> 02:24:16.080 align:middle line:84% I want to highlight one of those challenges 02:24:16.080 --> 02:24:18.870 align:middle line:84% of environmental justice and build on the points 02:24:18.870 --> 02:24:21.660 align:middle line:84% Congresswoman Pressley shared earlier. 02:24:21.660 --> 02:24:24.690 align:middle line:84% As a young boy, I took interest in environmental studies 02:24:24.690 --> 02:24:28.110 align:middle line:84% after seeing the impact fossil fuel extraction had 02:24:28.110 --> 02:24:31.800 align:middle line:84% on the Niger River Delta and in my hometown in Cameroon. 02:24:31.800 --> 02:24:35.370 align:middle line:84% This motivated me to study environmental science, which 02:24:35.370 --> 02:24:37.800 align:middle line:84% ultimately brought me to working at the Department 02:24:37.800 --> 02:24:40.590 align:middle line:84% of Environmental Protection and to volunteer 02:24:40.590 --> 02:24:42.550 align:middle line:84% with local organizations in Somerville, 02:24:42.550 --> 02:24:47.190 align:middle line:84% including Community Assessment of Freeway Exposure and Health, 02:24:47.190 --> 02:24:49.410 align:middle line:84% to fight highway pollution and how they impact 02:24:49.410 --> 02:24:51.540 align:middle line:90% Somerville residents' heatlh. 02:24:51.540 --> 02:24:54.870 align:middle line:84% This is one of the many reasons why I ran for city council 02:24:54.870 --> 02:24:57.600 align:middle line:84% and why I'm running for mayor, to tackle 02:24:57.600 --> 02:25:00.990 align:middle line:84% these issues in partnership with our vibrant community 02:25:00.990 --> 02:25:03.450 align:middle line:90% and our representative. 02:25:03.450 --> 02:25:06.330 align:middle line:84% It is critical that Somerville maintains representation 02:25:06.330 --> 02:25:09.690 align:middle line:84% with congressional district 7, entirely covering 02:25:09.690 --> 02:25:14.040 align:middle line:84% Somerville, one state Senate district, and three state House 02:25:14.040 --> 02:25:15.940 align:middle line:90% districts. 02:25:15.940 --> 02:25:18.940 align:middle line:84% Our federal and state delegation has 02:25:18.940 --> 02:25:21.010 align:middle line:84% been crucial in advocating for Somerville's 02:25:21.010 --> 02:25:22.550 align:middle line:84% environmental justice communities 02:25:22.550 --> 02:25:25.540 align:middle line:84% surrounding I-93 and McGrath Highway. 02:25:25.540 --> 02:25:29.290 align:middle line:84% I hope to continue working with our delegation on these issues 02:25:29.290 --> 02:25:31.530 align:middle line:84% and ensure we keep some of this district whole 02:25:31.530 --> 02:25:35.130 align:middle line:84% and representative of our communities of interest. 02:25:35.130 --> 02:25:38.550 align:middle line:84% Sir, I want to thank the community for their hard work 02:25:38.550 --> 02:25:41.970 align:middle line:84% on the challenging task ahead of redistricting. 02:25:41.970 --> 02:25:44.250 align:middle line:84% Somerville is so fortunate to have 02:25:44.250 --> 02:25:48.430 align:middle line:84% the representation we have had at the state and federal level. 02:25:48.430 --> 02:25:51.720 align:middle line:84% So on behalf of our diverse communities of interest, 02:25:51.720 --> 02:25:54.600 align:middle line:84% I hope the Joint Committee on Redistricting 02:25:54.600 --> 02:25:57.590 align:middle line:84% will maintain Somerville's whole, contiguous, and impact 02:25:57.590 --> 02:26:02.010 align:middle line:84% districts that are reflective of our community in Somerville. 02:26:02.010 --> 02:26:04.440 align:middle line:84% I want to thank you for your time, consideration, and all 02:26:04.440 --> 02:26:05.860 align:middle line:90% your hard work. 02:26:05.860 --> 02:26:08.040 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Sir. 02:26:08.040 --> 02:26:10.650 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony, Councilor. 02:26:10.650 --> 02:26:14.950 align:middle line:84% Other questions from members of the Committee? 02:26:14.950 --> 02:26:16.450 align:middle line:84% Glad we could get you on, Councilor. 02:26:16.450 --> 02:26:17.750 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 02:26:17.750 --> 02:26:20.245 align:middle line:90% It's a pleasure, Sir. 02:26:20.245 --> 02:26:20.870 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Sir. 02:26:20.870 --> 02:26:23.540 align:middle line:90% 02:26:23.540 --> 02:26:34.470 align:middle line:90% To [? Loren ?] [? Sokal? ?] 02:26:34.470 --> 02:26:36.390 align:middle line:90% Yes, hello there. 02:26:36.390 --> 02:26:37.290 align:middle line:90% Hi, [? Loren. ?] 02:26:37.290 --> 02:26:39.390 align:middle line:84% Hi, I'm [? Loren. ?] I would like to promote 02:26:39.390 --> 02:26:41.630 align:middle line:90% Norieliz DeJesus from Chelsea. 02:26:41.630 --> 02:26:43.230 align:middle line:90% She'll actually be speaking. 02:26:43.230 --> 02:26:46.205 align:middle line:90% 02:26:46.205 --> 02:26:46.705 align:middle line:90% OK. 02:26:46.705 --> 02:26:50.530 align:middle line:90% 02:26:50.530 --> 02:26:51.270 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon. 02:26:51.270 --> 02:26:52.900 align:middle line:90% Can you hear me? 02:26:52.900 --> 02:26:53.830 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:26:53.830 --> 02:26:54.900 align:middle line:90% OK, great. 02:26:54.900 --> 02:26:58.860 align:middle line:84% I want to start by thanking the Redistricting Committee chairs 02:26:58.860 --> 02:27:01.890 align:middle line:84% Senator William Brownsberger and Representative Mike Moran 02:27:01.890 --> 02:27:03.630 align:middle line:84% as well as other members of the Committee 02:27:03.630 --> 02:27:06.180 align:middle line:84% for hosting this public hearing, and for your commitment 02:27:06.180 --> 02:27:08.190 align:middle line:84% to engaging with grassroots organizations 02:27:08.190 --> 02:27:09.570 align:middle line:90% throughout this process. 02:27:09.570 --> 02:27:11.400 align:middle line:84% My name, again, is Norieliz DeJesus. 02:27:11.400 --> 02:27:14.760 align:middle line:84% I'm the Director of Policy and Organizing at La Colaborativa, 02:27:14.760 --> 02:27:16.950 align:middle line:90% and Chelsea is my hometown. 02:27:16.950 --> 02:27:19.710 align:middle line:84% My organization is also a proud member of the Drawing Democracy 02:27:19.710 --> 02:27:22.290 align:middle line:84% Coalition, where many of my colleagues 02:27:22.290 --> 02:27:23.670 align:middle line:84% that I share coalition seats with 02:27:23.670 --> 02:27:26.640 align:middle line:84% have already spoken and done an amazing job 02:27:26.640 --> 02:27:28.540 align:middle line:84% in describing the concerns with how 02:27:28.540 --> 02:27:29.850 align:middle line:90% Chelsea is underrepresented. 02:27:29.850 --> 02:27:33.090 align:middle line:84% Today, I will testify as a Chelsea girl. 02:27:33.090 --> 02:27:34.820 align:middle line:90% Chelsea is my home. 02:27:34.820 --> 02:27:37.860 align:middle line:84% It holds the roots of my upbringing. 02:27:37.860 --> 02:27:41.490 align:middle line:84% It will also hopefully hold the roots for my children 02:27:41.490 --> 02:27:43.350 align:middle line:90% to also call Chelsea home. 02:27:43.350 --> 02:27:46.080 align:middle line:84% I have lived in five different neighborhoods 02:27:46.080 --> 02:27:48.360 align:middle line:84% in this small city throughout my life. 02:27:48.360 --> 02:27:52.590 align:middle line:84% It's common for families in our city to move around many times 02:27:52.590 --> 02:27:54.450 align:middle line:90% but always remain in our city. 02:27:54.450 --> 02:27:56.790 align:middle line:84% And this is because it's more than just a roof 02:27:56.790 --> 02:27:57.840 align:middle line:90% you find in the city. 02:27:57.840 --> 02:28:00.660 align:middle line:84% It's the safety net the city provides. 02:28:00.660 --> 02:28:02.850 align:middle line:84% It's low-income communities of color. 02:28:02.850 --> 02:28:05.850 align:middle line:84% The Chelsea community is a beautiful community 02:28:05.850 --> 02:28:08.740 align:middle line:84% of diverse backgrounds, cultures, languages, 02:28:08.740 --> 02:28:09.810 align:middle line:90% and religions. 02:28:09.810 --> 02:28:12.150 align:middle line:84% We are a humble community with households 02:28:12.150 --> 02:28:14.820 align:middle line:84% of students that will be first-time high school 02:28:14.820 --> 02:28:17.340 align:middle line:84% graduates in their families and first-time college 02:28:17.340 --> 02:28:20.160 align:middle line:84% students in their families, and with parents 02:28:20.160 --> 02:28:22.560 align:middle line:84% who have third- and fourth-grade levels of education 02:28:22.560 --> 02:28:25.170 align:middle line:84% and at times do not know how to read or write. 02:28:25.170 --> 02:28:28.560 align:middle line:84% These students are often enrolled in AP classes 02:28:28.560 --> 02:28:32.160 align:middle line:84% and work hard to build a path to college, but at the same time 02:28:32.160 --> 02:28:34.740 align:middle line:84% have to dedicate the afternoons and weekends to working 02:28:34.740 --> 02:28:37.170 align:middle line:84% a part-time job to support their parents with bills, 02:28:37.170 --> 02:28:40.540 align:middle line:84% keeping on the lights on, or food on the table. 02:28:40.540 --> 02:28:43.380 align:middle line:84% Our city is filled with neighbors 02:28:43.380 --> 02:28:46.470 align:middle line:84% that look out for each other even when they themselves 02:28:46.470 --> 02:28:49.620 align:middle line:84% are struggling to get ahead, families that extend a hand, 02:28:49.620 --> 02:28:51.600 align:middle line:84% break bread, and share a sofa with families 02:28:51.600 --> 02:28:53.840 align:middle line:90% that have fallen in need. 02:28:53.840 --> 02:28:56.120 align:middle line:84% We have seen this demonstrated more than ever 02:28:56.120 --> 02:28:59.990 align:middle line:84% during this past year as we took the lead many times 02:28:59.990 --> 02:29:02.310 align:middle line:90% with COVID rates in the state. 02:29:02.310 --> 02:29:05.330 align:middle line:84% This pandemic unveiled the huge disadvantages 02:29:05.330 --> 02:29:06.890 align:middle line:84% that gateway communities like Chelsea 02:29:06.890 --> 02:29:09.470 align:middle line:84% have always had, how a city like Chelsea 02:29:09.470 --> 02:29:14.090 align:middle line:84% is so unique in its struggles, its educational disadvantages, 02:29:14.090 --> 02:29:17.630 align:middle line:84% unemployment rates, health concerns, and so much more. 02:29:17.630 --> 02:29:19.520 align:middle line:90% We're a community of renters. 02:29:19.520 --> 02:29:22.160 align:middle line:84% Throughout the years, due to the increasing rents, 02:29:22.160 --> 02:29:24.470 align:middle line:84% we have had no choice but to work two or three jobs 02:29:24.470 --> 02:29:27.500 align:middle line:84% to keep up with the cost of living, a roof over our heads, 02:29:27.500 --> 02:29:29.130 align:middle line:90% and the food on the table. 02:29:29.130 --> 02:29:34.130 align:middle line:84% We often jump around in our neighboring cities, 02:29:34.130 --> 02:29:36.350 align:middle line:84% from home to home, with parents that 02:29:36.350 --> 02:29:39.350 align:middle line:84% don't have a minute to breathe between jobs because their goal 02:29:39.350 --> 02:29:42.110 align:middle line:84% is to get their children through school and support them, 02:29:42.110 --> 02:29:44.990 align:middle line:84% so that one day those children become homeowners, 02:29:44.990 --> 02:29:47.120 align:middle line:90% breaking the cycle of poverty. 02:29:47.120 --> 02:29:48.890 align:middle line:84% A tenant in Chelsea would relocate 02:29:48.890 --> 02:29:52.430 align:middle line:84% between the cities of Chelsea, Everett, Revere, and East 02:29:52.430 --> 02:29:53.540 align:middle line:90% Boston. 02:29:53.540 --> 02:29:56.540 align:middle line:84% This is why La Colaborativa this year throughout the pandemic 02:29:56.540 --> 02:29:58.280 align:middle line:84% has broken the borders that we've 02:29:58.280 --> 02:30:00.560 align:middle line:84% had to only servicing Chelsea, to expand it 02:30:00.560 --> 02:30:02.300 align:middle line:90% to also the neighboring cities. 02:30:02.300 --> 02:30:05.420 align:middle line:84% Because it's our families that are moving from city to city. 02:30:05.420 --> 02:30:08.150 align:middle line:84% It's the same families that we see in our food lines. 02:30:08.150 --> 02:30:11.180 align:middle line:84% It's the same families that we see reaching out 02:30:11.180 --> 02:30:13.390 align:middle line:90% for housing services. 02:30:13.390 --> 02:30:15.640 align:middle line:84% And this is because of the similarities 02:30:15.640 --> 02:30:19.970 align:middle line:84% that these communities share in culture, languages, and income. 02:30:19.970 --> 02:30:23.330 align:middle line:84% Nothing ever compares to staying in Chelsea. 02:30:23.330 --> 02:30:26.000 align:middle line:84% Although we can provide sometimes 02:30:26.000 --> 02:30:29.390 align:middle line:84% shelters for relocation to other parts of the states, 02:30:29.390 --> 02:30:31.910 align:middle line:84% our families often opt out of that. 02:30:31.910 --> 02:30:35.600 align:middle line:84% They'll prefer to sleep in a pantry, on a porch, 02:30:35.600 --> 02:30:37.820 align:middle line:84% or even under the bridge in our city, 02:30:37.820 --> 02:30:40.160 align:middle line:84% because the city provides a sanctuary. 02:30:40.160 --> 02:30:42.530 align:middle line:84% We're a sanctuary city where organizations 02:30:42.530 --> 02:30:44.600 align:middle line:84% such as La Colaborativa for years 02:30:44.600 --> 02:30:47.780 align:middle line:84% have demanded, implemented, and monitored 02:30:47.780 --> 02:30:50.270 align:middle line:84% that immigrant families feel comfortable exercising 02:30:50.270 --> 02:30:53.540 align:middle line:84% their rights to report crime with local law enforcement, 02:30:53.540 --> 02:30:56.810 align:middle line:84% to report code violations of inhabitable homes 02:30:56.810 --> 02:31:00.980 align:middle line:84% to the municipalities, the right to request Spanish translation 02:31:00.980 --> 02:31:04.100 align:middle line:84% at any of our schools, be able to advocate for their children 02:31:04.100 --> 02:31:07.670 align:middle line:84% in their native language, and access healthcare, and so much 02:31:07.670 --> 02:31:08.960 align:middle line:90% more. 02:31:08.960 --> 02:31:12.080 align:middle line:84% For Chelsea to have fair representation, 02:31:12.080 --> 02:31:14.330 align:middle line:84% they must have a leader that solely represents 02:31:14.330 --> 02:31:17.275 align:middle line:84% the unique city that I just described above, 02:31:17.275 --> 02:31:19.400 align:middle line:84% or they should be representing districts that share 02:31:19.400 --> 02:31:21.860 align:middle line:90% similar needs and demographics. 02:31:21.860 --> 02:31:25.820 align:middle line:84% With that being said, Chelsea is highly underrepresented 02:31:25.820 --> 02:31:28.940 align:middle line:84% when we share representation with a city like Charlestown. 02:31:28.940 --> 02:31:31.670 align:middle line:84% Charlestown and Chelsea are two different worlds. 02:31:31.670 --> 02:31:34.280 align:middle line:84% And what ends up happening is that the unique needs of a city 02:31:34.280 --> 02:31:36.050 align:middle line:90% like Chelsea get overseen. 02:31:36.050 --> 02:31:38.870 align:middle line:84% Meanwhile, the needs of a wealthier and whiter community 02:31:38.870 --> 02:31:41.150 align:middle line:90% get more representation. 02:31:41.150 --> 02:31:44.510 align:middle line:84% I respectfully ask that you consider making sure 02:31:44.510 --> 02:31:46.220 align:middle line:84% that our city has fair representation 02:31:46.220 --> 02:31:48.780 align:middle line:90% within our state's democracy. 02:31:48.780 --> 02:31:50.360 align:middle line:84% Make sure that our voters continue 02:31:50.360 --> 02:31:52.700 align:middle line:84% to trust and believe in the changes 02:31:52.700 --> 02:31:54.320 align:middle line:90% that their votes can make. 02:31:54.320 --> 02:31:57.680 align:middle line:84% Allow our community to lead and implement 02:31:57.680 --> 02:32:02.990 align:middle line:84% the changes and solutions that they need in our city. 02:32:02.990 --> 02:32:06.328 align:middle line:84% Thank you for your time and for your attention this afternoon. 02:32:06.328 --> 02:32:08.960 align:middle line:90% 02:32:08.960 --> 02:32:12.420 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much for that powerful testimony. 02:32:12.420 --> 02:32:14.970 align:middle line:90% That puts some facts on the map. 02:32:14.970 --> 02:32:18.250 align:middle line:90% Much appreciated. 02:32:18.250 --> 02:32:20.865 align:middle line:84% Questions, comments from members of the Committee? 02:32:20.865 --> 02:32:23.840 align:middle line:90% 02:32:23.840 --> 02:32:24.803 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 02:32:24.803 --> 02:32:25.970 align:middle line:90% Thank you for being with us. 02:32:25.970 --> 02:32:29.010 align:middle line:90% 02:32:29.010 --> 02:32:33.395 align:middle line:84% I'm going to go to Henry Milorin from Medford. 02:32:33.395 --> 02:32:43.690 align:middle line:90% 02:32:43.690 --> 02:32:45.920 align:middle line:84% Henry Milorin, you have been promoted. 02:32:45.920 --> 02:32:48.565 align:middle line:84% You need to unmute and turn on your video. 02:32:48.565 --> 02:33:05.350 align:middle line:90% 02:33:05.350 --> 02:33:08.470 align:middle line:84% I'm going to ask you to unmute there, Henry, 02:33:08.470 --> 02:33:12.540 align:middle line:84% and turn on your video if you're comfortable doing so. 02:33:12.540 --> 02:33:16.120 align:middle line:90% 02:33:16.120 --> 02:33:20.050 align:middle line:84% Let's assume that Henry is away from the screen at the moment, 02:33:20.050 --> 02:33:22.420 align:middle line:84% and we'll try to come back to him. 02:33:22.420 --> 02:33:24.820 align:middle line:84% I'm going to go for me to [? Fehmida ?] [? Malik ?] from 02:33:24.820 --> 02:33:28.340 align:middle line:84% Cambridge if she's here or he's here. 02:33:28.340 --> 02:33:34.470 align:middle line:90% 02:33:34.470 --> 02:33:36.070 align:middle line:90% I don't believe so. 02:33:36.070 --> 02:33:37.800 align:middle line:90% OK. 02:33:37.800 --> 02:33:39.210 align:middle line:90% Is John [? Bookstone ?] here? 02:33:39.210 --> 02:33:43.980 align:middle line:90% 02:33:43.980 --> 02:33:46.868 align:middle line:90% I don't think so. 02:33:46.868 --> 02:33:47.785 align:middle line:90% [? Tamika ?] Williams? 02:33:47.785 --> 02:33:54.730 align:middle line:90% 02:33:54.730 --> 02:33:56.160 align:middle line:90% Nope. 02:33:56.160 --> 02:33:57.270 align:middle line:90% OK. 02:33:57.270 --> 02:33:58.470 align:middle line:90% But we have-- 02:33:58.470 --> 02:33:59.730 align:middle line:90% Dorothea Jones is here. 02:33:59.730 --> 02:34:01.950 align:middle line:90% Dorothea Jones. 02:34:01.950 --> 02:34:03.180 align:middle line:90% Dorothea Jones, please. 02:34:03.180 --> 02:34:11.240 align:middle line:90% 02:34:11.240 --> 02:34:12.650 align:middle line:90% Welcome. 02:34:12.650 --> 02:34:15.180 align:middle line:90% Well, thank you very much. 02:34:15.180 --> 02:34:17.570 align:middle line:84% Good morning, Chairman Brownsberger 02:34:17.570 --> 02:34:20.420 align:middle line:90% and Chairman Moran. 02:34:20.420 --> 02:34:22.670 align:middle line:90% My name is Dorothea Jones. 02:34:22.670 --> 02:34:26.720 align:middle line:84% I am a lifelong resident of Roxbury, Massachusetts, 02:34:26.720 --> 02:34:30.420 align:middle line:84% where I've resided for more than seven decades. 02:34:30.420 --> 02:34:34.640 align:middle line:84% As you can see, I am a Black African-American. 02:34:34.640 --> 02:34:38.000 align:middle line:84% I thank you for allowing me to speak today 02:34:38.000 --> 02:34:42.140 align:middle line:84% on the issue of redistricting, the process which 02:34:42.140 --> 02:34:48.530 align:middle line:84% allows all Americans to have the right to be represented fairly 02:34:48.530 --> 02:34:50.960 align:middle line:90% in their government. 02:34:50.960 --> 02:34:52.790 align:middle line:90% A quick background note-- 02:34:52.790 --> 02:34:56.360 align:middle line:84% I've had the pleasure of being a political activist 02:34:56.360 --> 02:35:00.920 align:middle line:84% at the local community and state and national levels, 02:35:00.920 --> 02:35:03.380 align:middle line:84% serving as a member of my local ward 02:35:03.380 --> 02:35:07.880 align:middle line:84% committee and many grassroots campaigns, 02:35:07.880 --> 02:35:10.640 align:middle line:84% as a member of the state committee 02:35:10.640 --> 02:35:14.630 align:middle line:84% and delegate to numerous state conventions, 02:35:14.630 --> 02:35:18.380 align:middle line:84% as an elected delegate to the national presidential 02:35:18.380 --> 02:35:22.220 align:middle line:84% conventions, and organizer in several states 02:35:22.220 --> 02:35:25.850 align:middle line:84% for presidential campaigns in this great country. 02:35:25.850 --> 02:35:28.760 align:middle line:84% As a woman and person of color, I 02:35:28.760 --> 02:35:31.850 align:middle line:84% speak my truth regarding what I see 02:35:31.850 --> 02:35:36.620 align:middle line:84% about the experiences of my gender and my ethnicity 02:35:36.620 --> 02:35:38.960 align:middle line:90% and heritage. 02:35:38.960 --> 02:35:42.320 align:middle line:84% As a people, we have been and continue 02:35:42.320 --> 02:35:48.020 align:middle line:84% to experience political cycles of victimization, 02:35:48.020 --> 02:35:53.360 align:middle line:84% marginalization, and demonization, primarily based 02:35:53.360 --> 02:35:55.910 align:middle line:90% on our Black heritage. 02:35:55.910 --> 02:35:58.940 align:middle line:84% And I say today, enough is enough. 02:35:58.940 --> 02:36:03.470 align:middle line:84% It is time for political equity and political justice, 02:36:03.470 --> 02:36:08.060 align:middle line:84% in which African-Americans are fairly and equitably 02:36:08.060 --> 02:36:13.100 align:middle line:84% represented in what this country calls representative 02:36:13.100 --> 02:36:17.000 align:middle line:90% are participatory democracy. 02:36:17.000 --> 02:36:22.460 align:middle line:84% History has shown, and we know, how participatory government 02:36:22.460 --> 02:36:27.320 align:middle line:84% has worked for every group within Massachusetts politics. 02:36:27.320 --> 02:36:37.100 align:middle line:84% The nativists are primarily Protestant-majority, the Irish, 02:36:37.100 --> 02:36:43.820 align:middle line:84% the Italians, and how cycles of victimization, marginalization, 02:36:43.820 --> 02:36:49.410 align:middle line:84% and demonization of groups keep people who look like me, 02:36:49.410 --> 02:36:54.770 align:middle line:84% people of color particularly, and Black African-Americans 02:36:54.770 --> 02:36:57.170 align:middle line:84% from achieving political equality. 02:36:57.170 --> 02:37:00.160 align:middle line:90% 02:37:00.160 --> 02:37:06.610 align:middle line:84% For years, those classified as nativists 02:37:06.610 --> 02:37:13.510 align:middle line:84% are the Protestant-majority, and the Irish and the Italians 02:37:13.510 --> 02:37:17.890 align:middle line:84% were firmly secured under separate umbrellas, 02:37:17.890 --> 02:37:25.210 align:middle line:84% particularly socially, economically, and based 02:37:25.210 --> 02:37:29.380 align:middle line:90% on their interests. 02:37:29.380 --> 02:37:34.900 align:middle line:84% They were all separate in this country 02:37:34.900 --> 02:37:39.020 align:middle line:90% when it came politically. 02:37:39.020 --> 02:37:42.970 align:middle line:84% They were all good or categorized 02:37:42.970 --> 02:37:45.520 align:middle line:84% under separate umbrellas, but now 02:37:45.520 --> 02:37:52.330 align:middle line:84% based on need and political expediency or political power, 02:37:52.330 --> 02:37:56.500 align:middle line:84% today they are all classified under one umbrella. 02:37:56.500 --> 02:37:59.830 align:middle line:84% And that is a white umbrella, which preserves 02:37:59.830 --> 02:38:01.750 align:middle line:90% their political positions. 02:38:01.750 --> 02:38:05.050 align:middle line:84% And together, they have a common interest 02:38:05.050 --> 02:38:07.840 align:middle line:84% and can be satisfied that as a group, 02:38:07.840 --> 02:38:12.610 align:middle line:84% they have preserved their political and economic power. 02:38:12.610 --> 02:38:17.140 align:middle line:84% As an African-American, and as African-Americans 02:38:17.140 --> 02:38:20.080 align:middle line:84% with common interests and whose interests 02:38:20.080 --> 02:38:23.710 align:middle line:84% must be included and represented in the diversity 02:38:23.710 --> 02:38:27.790 align:middle line:84% and political power sharing of this government, 02:38:27.790 --> 02:38:34.960 align:middle line:84% based on our population, we expect the government 02:38:34.960 --> 02:38:38.350 align:middle line:90% to be inclusive. 02:38:38.350 --> 02:38:42.580 align:middle line:84% Based on our population numbers, our zip codes, 02:38:42.580 --> 02:38:47.620 align:middle line:84% and our geographical turf where we 02:38:47.620 --> 02:38:53.230 align:middle line:84% reside that any fair and equitable redistricting map, 02:38:53.230 --> 02:38:57.880 align:middle line:84% when drawn and approved, will have the Black African-American 02:38:57.880 --> 02:39:01.450 align:middle line:84% and other ethnic and marginalized groups 02:39:01.450 --> 02:39:06.350 align:middle line:84% represented fairly in this participatory democracy, 02:39:06.350 --> 02:39:10.660 align:middle line:84% especially for Suffolk County where there has been continued 02:39:10.660 --> 02:39:15.160 align:middle line:84% population growth, unlike many counties in Massachusetts, 02:39:15.160 --> 02:39:19.330 align:middle line:84% where there has been population decline. 02:39:19.330 --> 02:39:22.870 align:middle line:84% I remain hopeful with this hearing, 02:39:22.870 --> 02:39:26.350 align:middle line:84% the excellent testimony of concerned voters 02:39:26.350 --> 02:39:29.830 align:middle line:84% and organizations, and in particular the words 02:39:29.830 --> 02:39:34.960 align:middle line:84% of Chairman Moran who spoke of being principled and doing 02:39:34.960 --> 02:39:36.130 align:middle line:90% the right thing. 02:39:36.130 --> 02:39:41.530 align:middle line:84% I want to thank all of the members of the Redistricting 02:39:41.530 --> 02:39:42.430 align:middle line:90% Committee. 02:39:42.430 --> 02:39:46.160 align:middle line:84% I want to thank all of my elected officials. 02:39:46.160 --> 02:39:51.040 align:middle line:84% And I remain very hopeful that out of this hearing, 02:39:51.040 --> 02:40:02.070 align:middle line:84% there will be conspicuous and equitably drawn district lines. 02:40:02.070 --> 02:40:04.318 align:middle line:90% Thank you so much. 02:40:04.318 --> 02:40:05.860 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony. 02:40:05.860 --> 02:40:09.250 align:middle line:84% I want to associate myself with Chairman Moran's remarks 02:40:09.250 --> 02:40:12.550 align:middle line:84% about being principled and doing the right thing. 02:40:12.550 --> 02:40:19.390 align:middle line:84% [LAUGHTER] I think what he said was very hopeful for all of us, 02:40:19.390 --> 02:40:21.820 align:middle line:84% and I understand that you all have 02:40:21.820 --> 02:40:28.120 align:middle line:84% a very, very difficult position, trying to satisfy everybody. 02:40:28.120 --> 02:40:31.090 align:middle line:84% But I think if we all look at it in terms 02:40:31.090 --> 02:40:34.210 align:middle line:84% of doing the right thing and being very principled. 02:40:34.210 --> 02:40:35.800 align:middle line:90% I think we will all-- 02:40:35.800 --> 02:40:39.880 align:middle line:84% although we may not be 100% satisfied, 02:40:39.880 --> 02:40:46.992 align:middle line:84% we will be mostly satisfied with what the outcome is. 02:40:46.992 --> 02:40:49.230 align:middle line:90% That is our hope. 02:40:49.230 --> 02:40:52.020 align:middle line:90% That is our hope. 02:40:52.020 --> 02:40:53.930 align:middle line:90% Questions, comments from others? 02:40:53.930 --> 02:40:57.560 align:middle line:90% 02:40:57.560 --> 02:41:00.950 align:middle line:84% OK, thank you so much for your testimony. 02:41:00.950 --> 02:41:04.420 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 02:41:04.420 --> 02:41:09.780 align:middle line:84% I believe Anthony Collins spoke in a previous panel. 02:41:09.780 --> 02:41:11.310 align:middle line:90% Correct me if I'm wrong. 02:41:11.310 --> 02:41:12.000 align:middle line:90% That's correct. 02:41:12.000 --> 02:41:15.190 align:middle line:90% 02:41:15.190 --> 02:41:18.942 align:middle line:90% Dr. [? Karo ?] Williams? 02:41:18.942 --> 02:41:19.775 align:middle line:90% [? Kyro ?] Williams? 02:41:19.775 --> 02:41:27.070 align:middle line:90% 02:41:27.070 --> 02:41:29.680 align:middle line:90% Present? 02:41:29.680 --> 02:41:31.380 align:middle line:90% No. 02:41:31.380 --> 02:41:35.590 align:middle line:84% By the way, I just want to take this opportunity to say, 02:41:35.590 --> 02:41:38.460 align:middle line:84% if people are watching this on the livestream from 02:41:38.460 --> 02:41:44.820 align:middle line:84% the legislative website, you do have the option to follow 02:41:44.820 --> 02:41:51.040 align:middle line:84% the link at the Events Scheduling item under 02:41:51.040 --> 02:41:55.320 align:middle line:84% MAlegislature.gov/redistricting and get on the spreadsheet that 02:41:55.320 --> 02:41:58.380 align:middle line:84% I'm reading from, and we'll call you to testify. 02:41:58.380 --> 02:42:00.240 align:middle line:84% So people can decide at any time that they 02:42:00.240 --> 02:42:04.150 align:middle line:84% wish to testify, and just come in via that link. 02:42:04.150 --> 02:42:09.040 align:middle line:90% MAlegislature.gov/redistricting. 02:42:09.040 --> 02:42:12.550 align:middle line:84% Maybe Andrew could put-- or Maeve could put in the chat 02:42:12.550 --> 02:42:15.880 align:middle line:84% an even more direct link to the form to sign up 02:42:15.880 --> 02:42:18.310 align:middle line:90% for this if anybody wishes to. 02:42:18.310 --> 02:42:20.830 align:middle line:84% OK, so Dr. [? Kyra ?] Williams, I do not see. 02:42:20.830 --> 02:42:25.630 align:middle line:84% I'm going to go to Andrea Lee [? Sally. ?] 02:42:25.630 --> 02:42:26.770 align:middle line:90% I don't believe she's here. 02:42:26.770 --> 02:42:29.380 align:middle line:84% I believe the next person on the list is here. 02:42:29.380 --> 02:42:31.300 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 02:42:31.300 --> 02:42:33.100 align:middle line:84% I'm sorry I'm not sure how to pronounce it, 02:42:33.100 --> 02:42:35.135 align:middle line:90% but it starts with a Q. 02:42:35.135 --> 02:42:35.635 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:42:35.635 --> 02:42:38.710 align:middle line:90% 02:42:38.710 --> 02:42:44.615 align:middle line:90% Let's promote that person. 02:42:44.615 --> 02:42:49.020 align:middle line:90% 02:42:49.020 --> 02:42:49.740 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:42:49.740 --> 02:42:52.700 align:middle line:84% Ms. Day, thank you for joining us. 02:42:52.700 --> 02:42:53.890 align:middle line:90% Oh, thank you for having me. 02:42:53.890 --> 02:42:55.640 align:middle line:90% And it's Quonekuia, by the way. 02:42:55.640 --> 02:42:56.610 align:middle line:90% Quonekuia. 02:42:56.610 --> 02:42:57.420 align:middle line:90% We can do that. 02:42:57.420 --> 02:42:59.610 align:middle line:90% [INTERPOSING VOICES] 02:42:59.610 --> 02:43:02.730 align:middle line:84% So I do thank you Chairman Brownsberger and to all 02:43:02.730 --> 02:43:03.990 align:middle line:90% the Committee members. 02:43:03.990 --> 02:43:06.495 align:middle line:90% I'm so glad to be here. 02:43:06.495 --> 02:43:07.870 align:middle line:84% I do want to just say two things. 02:43:07.870 --> 02:43:10.320 align:middle line:90% I am a resident of Mattapan. 02:43:10.320 --> 02:43:12.820 align:middle line:84% I'm also a Professor at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary, 02:43:12.820 --> 02:43:16.823 align:middle line:84% but I speak as a resident of Mattapan. 02:43:16.823 --> 02:43:18.990 align:middle line:84% And so the two things I wanted to share is that I do 02:43:18.990 --> 02:43:21.030 align:middle line:84% think that you guys have a tough job, 02:43:21.030 --> 02:43:25.230 align:middle line:84% but I also feel like this should be better promoted. 02:43:25.230 --> 02:43:28.620 align:middle line:84% I do think there should be a little bit more-- 02:43:28.620 --> 02:43:31.440 align:middle line:84% I know everyone's trying hard to do it-- more transparency. 02:43:31.440 --> 02:43:35.100 align:middle line:84% I'm excited to hear about the upcoming community forum 02:43:35.100 --> 02:43:39.640 align:middle line:84% later on in August, that I heard about it via email. 02:43:39.640 --> 02:43:41.890 align:middle line:84% I feel like there should have been some other formats. 02:43:41.890 --> 02:43:43.890 align:middle line:90% But that's just one thing. 02:43:43.890 --> 02:43:48.090 align:middle line:84% I think there should be more testimonies from just 02:43:48.090 --> 02:43:50.100 align:middle line:84% our regular folks in the neighborhood, 02:43:50.100 --> 02:43:52.962 align:middle line:84% because we live it, and we experience it. 02:43:52.962 --> 02:43:54.420 align:middle line:84% The other part I wanted to just add 02:43:54.420 --> 02:43:57.240 align:middle line:84% is that Mattapan is a diverse community. 02:43:57.240 --> 02:43:59.880 align:middle line:84% We have a lot of homeowners as well. 02:43:59.880 --> 02:44:03.330 align:middle line:84% We do have a high rental rate, but we 02:44:03.330 --> 02:44:05.520 align:middle line:90% have a lot of homeowners. 02:44:05.520 --> 02:44:08.317 align:middle line:84% We have immigrants as well, and we have white people, 02:44:08.317 --> 02:44:09.900 align:middle line:84% we have Jewish people, we have Asians, 02:44:09.900 --> 02:44:11.280 align:middle line:90% we have all sorts of people. 02:44:11.280 --> 02:44:14.220 align:middle line:90% And I think our community is-- 02:44:14.220 --> 02:44:18.060 align:middle line:84% I think it's growing, and I feel a sense of strong community 02:44:18.060 --> 02:44:18.630 align:middle line:90% in Mattapan. 02:44:18.630 --> 02:44:20.580 align:middle line:84% I feel like it's a great place to live, 02:44:20.580 --> 02:44:24.840 align:middle line:84% and I would hate to see it changed. 02:44:24.840 --> 02:44:26.550 align:middle line:84% I'd really like our district to remain. 02:44:26.550 --> 02:44:29.220 align:middle line:84% I know that other groups are trying 02:44:29.220 --> 02:44:33.420 align:middle line:84% to see how they could have more representation 02:44:33.420 --> 02:44:35.670 align:middle line:84% and look at the majority-minority status 02:44:35.670 --> 02:44:36.540 align:middle line:90% in Mattapan. 02:44:36.540 --> 02:44:42.600 align:middle line:84% But I think I would hate to see us changed 02:44:42.600 --> 02:44:45.450 align:middle line:84% in this whole process, because I do feel, as a community, 02:44:45.450 --> 02:44:48.510 align:middle line:84% we are growing as tight-knit, and I'd 02:44:48.510 --> 02:44:51.600 align:middle line:84% like to see us continue to expand in that effort. 02:44:51.600 --> 02:44:54.570 align:middle line:84% So those are just my two points to keep Mattapan as is, 02:44:54.570 --> 02:44:56.760 align:middle line:84% and to perhaps work a little bit more 02:44:56.760 --> 02:44:59.490 align:middle line:84% on getting the word out to the regular folks 02:44:59.490 --> 02:45:00.570 align:middle line:90% in the neighborhood. 02:45:00.570 --> 02:45:01.760 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 02:45:01.760 --> 02:45:02.260 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 02:45:02.260 --> 02:45:03.427 align:middle line:90% I appreciate your testimony. 02:45:03.427 --> 02:45:05.670 align:middle line:84% I mean, we need all the help we can get on that. 02:45:05.670 --> 02:45:07.230 align:middle line:90% And don't go away. 02:45:07.230 --> 02:45:09.630 align:middle line:90% Stay with us just for a second. 02:45:09.630 --> 02:45:12.160 align:middle line:90% I do have a question for you. 02:45:12.160 --> 02:45:13.752 align:middle line:84% So we do definitely need all the help 02:45:13.752 --> 02:45:15.210 align:middle line:84% we can get to getting the word out, 02:45:15.210 --> 02:45:18.040 align:middle line:84% and we appreciate any help you can give us on that. 02:45:18.040 --> 02:45:23.625 align:middle line:84% We promote that thing in August, and we'll keep the word going. 02:45:23.625 --> 02:45:25.500 align:middle line:84% You know, there's lots of hearings continuing 02:45:25.500 --> 02:45:26.875 align:middle line:84% to go on around the state, and we 02:45:26.875 --> 02:45:30.460 align:middle line:84% will be having hearings in multiple languages coming up. 02:45:30.460 --> 02:45:33.860 align:middle line:84% So if you want to promote our website 02:45:33.860 --> 02:45:36.360 align:middle line:84% through any channels you have, we certainly appreciate that. 02:45:36.360 --> 02:45:39.390 align:middle line:90% Will do, definitely. 02:45:39.390 --> 02:45:41.545 align:middle line:84% You said you want to keep Mattapan as is. 02:45:41.545 --> 02:45:43.920 align:middle line:84% I take it you're referring to the congressional district? 02:45:43.920 --> 02:45:45.090 align:middle line:90% Yes. 02:45:45.090 --> 02:45:45.592 align:middle line:90% OK. 02:45:45.592 --> 02:45:47.675 align:middle line:84% Because I don't know if you want to keep it as is, 02:45:47.675 --> 02:45:49.470 align:middle line:84% as it relates to the Senate district or-- 02:45:49.470 --> 02:45:50.670 align:middle line:90% No, no, no. 02:45:50.670 --> 02:45:51.240 align:middle line:90% Gotcha. 02:45:51.240 --> 02:45:54.330 align:middle line:90% OK, just checking. 02:45:54.330 --> 02:45:57.470 align:middle line:90% Representative Moran? 02:45:57.470 --> 02:45:59.943 align:middle line:84% Just quickly, you know, I feel a need-- 02:45:59.943 --> 02:46:01.610 align:middle line:84% because a number of people have said it, 02:46:01.610 --> 02:46:04.790 align:middle line:84% and they've said it in different hearings as well-- 02:46:04.790 --> 02:46:09.770 align:middle line:84% you know, I want to keep the 7th or the 8th or the 3rd as is. 02:46:09.770 --> 02:46:13.010 align:middle line:84% Unfortunately, every 10 years, we 02:46:13.010 --> 02:46:19.760 align:middle line:84% have to readjust, by our Constitution, 02:46:19.760 --> 02:46:21.410 align:middle line:90% because of one person, one vote. 02:46:21.410 --> 02:46:26.720 align:middle line:84% So in the 7th CD, we're expecting that district 02:46:26.720 --> 02:46:30.500 align:middle line:84% to be considerably overpopulated. 02:46:30.500 --> 02:46:33.920 align:middle line:84% By that, I mean having too many people in it. 02:46:33.920 --> 02:46:36.980 align:middle line:90% So it is very likely that-- 02:46:36.980 --> 02:46:39.080 align:middle line:84% we won't know until the final numbers come in-- 02:46:39.080 --> 02:46:42.170 align:middle line:84% that we are going to have to shed some population 02:46:42.170 --> 02:46:44.720 align:middle line:90% in that congressional district. 02:46:44.720 --> 02:46:49.150 align:middle line:84% So while I know people don't want any change, 02:46:49.150 --> 02:46:51.890 align:middle line:84% every congressional district in the Commonwealth 02:46:51.890 --> 02:46:54.500 align:middle line:90% is going to have some change. 02:46:54.500 --> 02:46:56.510 align:middle line:84% What this is about really is about what 02:46:56.510 --> 02:47:00.320 align:middle line:84% you said with Mattapan and areas like that. 02:47:00.320 --> 02:47:02.300 align:middle line:84% Where are their communities of interest 02:47:02.300 --> 02:47:06.620 align:middle line:84% that are worth accentuating and telling us about, 02:47:06.620 --> 02:47:09.500 align:middle line:84% so that when we do have to decide which areas will 02:47:09.500 --> 02:47:12.680 align:middle line:84% be removed from this congressional district, 02:47:12.680 --> 02:47:16.603 align:middle line:84% that we do as little harm as possible to the fabric 02:47:16.603 --> 02:47:17.270 align:middle line:90% of the district? 02:47:17.270 --> 02:47:19.460 align:middle line:84% So the fabric of the district-- whether it 02:47:19.460 --> 02:47:23.835 align:middle line:84% be just strictly based on ethnicity or income level 02:47:23.835 --> 02:47:25.460 align:middle line:84% or whatever the case may be when you're 02:47:25.460 --> 02:47:26.960 align:middle line:84% talking about community of interest, 02:47:26.960 --> 02:47:29.780 align:middle line:84% that we try to keep that fabric whole as much as possible. 02:47:29.780 --> 02:47:32.240 align:middle line:84% So I just feel like a number of people have said that, 02:47:32.240 --> 02:47:35.600 align:middle line:90% and I just wanted to-- 02:47:35.600 --> 02:47:37.520 align:middle line:84% not correct the record, but just give you 02:47:37.520 --> 02:47:39.410 align:middle line:84% an idea of what we're dealing with. 02:47:39.410 --> 02:47:41.478 align:middle line:84% Thank you, and I have no questions, Senator. 02:47:41.478 --> 02:47:43.520 align:middle line:84% I just thought it was worth at this point in time 02:47:43.520 --> 02:47:45.470 align:middle line:90% pointing that out. 02:47:45.470 --> 02:47:47.890 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 02:47:47.890 --> 02:47:53.265 align:middle line:84% OK, anything else for Quonekuia Day? 02:47:53.265 --> 02:47:54.640 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for joining us. 02:47:54.640 --> 02:47:56.182 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony. 02:47:56.182 --> 02:47:58.510 align:middle line:90% 02:47:58.510 --> 02:48:00.670 align:middle line:84% I see now we have [? Dianne ?] [? Wilkerson. ?] Is 02:48:00.670 --> 02:48:02.770 align:middle line:84% [? Dianne ?] [? Wilkerson ?] on the list? 02:48:02.770 --> 02:48:05.280 align:middle line:90% Is she available? 02:48:05.280 --> 02:48:07.610 align:middle line:90% I don't see her. 02:48:07.610 --> 02:48:12.190 align:middle line:84% Maeve, who's the next person that you see who's present? 02:48:12.190 --> 02:48:12.690 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 02:48:12.690 --> 02:48:13.920 align:middle line:84% I'm going to read all the names, just to make 02:48:13.920 --> 02:48:15.450 align:middle line:90% sure we don't miss anything. 02:48:15.450 --> 02:48:17.310 align:middle line:84% Well, what's the next one that you see? 02:48:17.310 --> 02:48:18.600 align:middle line:90% Jim Kaplan. 02:48:18.600 --> 02:48:20.700 align:middle line:84% OK, I'm going to read the names in between. 02:48:20.700 --> 02:48:25.240 align:middle line:84% [? Dianne ?] [? Wilkerson, ?] [? Patrick ?] [? Campbell, ?] 02:48:25.240 --> 02:48:31.680 align:middle line:84% [? Valerie ?] [? Copeland, ?] [? Desiree ?] [? Versailles, ?] 02:48:31.680 --> 02:48:38.530 align:middle line:84% and if any of them are in the webinar, 02:48:38.530 --> 02:48:41.200 align:middle line:84% they can chat and alert us that we missed them, 02:48:41.200 --> 02:48:42.910 align:middle line:84% but we're going to go to Jim Kaplan next. 02:48:42.910 --> 02:49:05.090 align:middle line:90% 02:49:05.090 --> 02:49:06.830 align:middle line:84% Jim, I believe you've been promoted. 02:49:06.830 --> 02:49:09.980 align:middle line:84% You are still on mute, and your video is off. 02:49:09.980 --> 02:49:11.480 align:middle line:90% Am I unmuted now? 02:49:11.480 --> 02:49:13.190 align:middle line:90% You're unmuted now. 02:49:13.190 --> 02:49:17.810 align:middle line:84% Hello, I'm speaking from Somerville. 02:49:17.810 --> 02:49:23.600 align:middle line:84% I would like to thank the co-chairs, Senator Brownsberger 02:49:23.600 --> 02:49:26.390 align:middle line:84% and Representative Moran, for giving me 02:49:26.390 --> 02:49:29.420 align:middle line:90% one moment to add a testimony. 02:49:29.420 --> 02:49:33.530 align:middle line:84% I'm speaking on behalf of maintaining 02:49:33.530 --> 02:49:36.650 align:middle line:84% the current situation in Somerville 02:49:36.650 --> 02:49:40.610 align:middle line:84% at the level of the state representative districts. 02:49:40.610 --> 02:49:45.470 align:middle line:84% We have a district in Central Somerville, in which I reside 02:49:45.470 --> 02:49:52.680 align:middle line:84% and vote, that covers the core of the city in one 02:49:52.680 --> 02:49:59.250 align:middle line:84% integral district that speaks to the two issues most paramount 02:49:59.250 --> 02:50:01.710 align:middle line:84% in the current development in the city. 02:50:01.710 --> 02:50:09.510 align:middle line:84% The first is housing, where the greatest amount of change 02:50:09.510 --> 02:50:13.380 align:middle line:84% in the composition of the population 02:50:13.380 --> 02:50:16.200 align:middle line:84% and in the provision of affordable housing 02:50:16.200 --> 02:50:19.170 align:middle line:84% has been-- in the core center of the city. 02:50:19.170 --> 02:50:22.500 align:middle line:84% Keeping it together in one district 02:50:22.500 --> 02:50:27.600 align:middle line:84% assists the capacity of pressure to address affordable housing 02:50:27.600 --> 02:50:29.670 align:middle line:90% issues in our city. 02:50:29.670 --> 02:50:31.290 align:middle line:84% And the second is transportation-- 02:50:31.290 --> 02:50:36.000 align:middle line:84% in particular, the development of the green line 02:50:36.000 --> 02:50:39.100 align:middle line:84% extension, which runs right through this district. 02:50:39.100 --> 02:50:43.620 align:middle line:84% So for these two reasons, the inclusion 02:50:43.620 --> 02:50:49.980 align:middle line:84% in one district of the core squares of the city served 02:50:49.980 --> 02:50:54.240 align:middle line:84% by Mass Transit, and therefore the center of the most 02:50:54.240 --> 02:50:58.080 align:middle line:84% intense shifts in housing affordability, 02:50:58.080 --> 02:51:03.150 align:middle line:84% are from Union Square through Gilman Square, 02:51:03.150 --> 02:51:05.700 align:middle line:84% up to Magoun Square over to Ball Square, 02:51:05.700 --> 02:51:10.590 align:middle line:84% down to Davis Square and past Porter Square 02:51:10.590 --> 02:51:12.420 align:middle line:90% back to Union Square. 02:51:12.420 --> 02:51:16.770 align:middle line:84% That district carries with it the core of-- 02:51:16.770 --> 02:51:20.130 align:middle line:84% in fact, pretty much the totality, save the Orange Line, 02:51:20.130 --> 02:51:22.410 align:middle line:84% of the transportation corridors-- 02:51:22.410 --> 02:51:24.240 align:middle line:84% Mass Transit corridors in the city. 02:51:24.240 --> 02:51:28.140 align:middle line:84% Keeping them within one district assists our capacity 02:51:28.140 --> 02:51:31.380 align:middle line:84% to lobby effectively on behalf of that transportation 02:51:31.380 --> 02:51:36.870 align:middle line:84% development and to respond to the housing pressures 02:51:36.870 --> 02:51:39.310 align:middle line:84% that it creates along those lines. 02:51:39.310 --> 02:51:41.340 align:middle line:84% So those are the two points I wish to make, 02:51:41.340 --> 02:51:45.000 align:middle line:84% and I appreciate the time that you have given. 02:51:45.000 --> 02:51:49.020 align:middle line:84% And we thank you for bringing those points to the table. 02:51:49.020 --> 02:51:51.650 align:middle line:84% Questions from members of the committee? 02:51:51.650 --> 02:51:53.670 align:middle line:90% Thoughts, comments? 02:51:53.670 --> 02:51:55.670 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Sir. 02:51:55.670 --> 02:51:58.730 align:middle line:90% It is Nathaniel Clauser here? 02:51:58.730 --> 02:52:01.900 align:middle line:90% 02:52:01.900 --> 02:52:03.812 align:middle line:84% Who is the next person that you see, Maeve? 02:52:03.812 --> 02:52:06.910 align:middle line:90% 02:52:06.910 --> 02:52:08.080 align:middle line:90% Oh, Nathanel, great. 02:52:08.080 --> 02:52:09.070 align:middle line:90% There you are. 02:52:09.070 --> 02:52:10.000 align:middle line:90% We got you. 02:52:10.000 --> 02:52:10.700 align:middle line:90% You're on. 02:52:10.700 --> 02:52:11.560 align:middle line:90% Can you hear me OK? 02:52:11.560 --> 02:52:12.730 align:middle line:90% Yup. 02:52:12.730 --> 02:52:14.020 align:middle line:90% Great, thanks. 02:52:14.020 --> 02:52:16.990 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Chair Brownsberger, Chairman Moran, 02:52:16.990 --> 02:52:20.420 align:middle line:84% and members of the Committee for this opportunity to speak. 02:52:20.420 --> 02:52:23.170 align:middle line:84% My name is Nathaniel Clauser, and I'm a seven-year resident 02:52:23.170 --> 02:52:25.030 align:middle line:90% of the city of Somerville. 02:52:25.030 --> 02:52:27.370 align:middle line:84% I'm the current Chair of Somerville's Ward 5 02:52:27.370 --> 02:52:29.140 align:middle line:90% Democratic Committee. 02:52:29.140 --> 02:52:30.790 align:middle line:84% I'm greatly appreciative of the fact 02:52:30.790 --> 02:52:32.740 align:middle line:84% that Somerville is presently represented 02:52:32.740 --> 02:52:35.140 align:middle line:84% by a single representative to Congress, 02:52:35.140 --> 02:52:38.290 align:middle line:84% a single state Senator, and three representatives 02:52:38.290 --> 02:52:41.590 align:middle line:84% of the state House, including one state representative whose 02:52:41.590 --> 02:52:45.970 align:middle line:84% district falls entirely within the boundaries of the city. 02:52:45.970 --> 02:52:48.640 align:middle line:84% These districts reflect Somerville's diverse voices 02:52:48.640 --> 02:52:49.900 align:middle line:90% and needs. 02:52:49.900 --> 02:52:51.940 align:middle line:84% And I'm excited that last year, Somerville 02:52:51.940 --> 02:52:55.870 align:middle line:84% elected its first woman of color in over 25 years to any elected 02:52:55.870 --> 02:52:57.610 align:middle line:90% office. 02:52:57.610 --> 02:53:00.310 align:middle line:84% In the 27th Middlesex district, this 02:53:00.310 --> 02:53:02.530 align:middle line:84% followed the 7th congressional district 02:53:02.530 --> 02:53:05.530 align:middle line:84% electing Massachusetts's first woman of color 02:53:05.530 --> 02:53:07.960 align:middle line:90% to Congress in 2018. 02:53:07.960 --> 02:53:11.260 align:middle line:84% I hope that you will preserve these state rep, state Senate, 02:53:11.260 --> 02:53:14.140 align:middle line:84% and congressional districts as much as possible. 02:53:14.140 --> 02:53:16.540 align:middle line:84% Indeed, I'm testifying today to echo the remarks 02:53:16.540 --> 02:53:19.630 align:middle line:84% of Representative Uyterhoeven and of Somerville City 02:53:19.630 --> 02:53:23.650 align:middle line:84% Councilors Mbah and Scott to ask the Committee to do everything 02:53:23.650 --> 02:53:26.290 align:middle line:84% in its power within the redistricting process 02:53:26.290 --> 02:53:28.270 align:middle line:84% to ensure that Somerville maintains 02:53:28.270 --> 02:53:30.790 align:middle line:84% cohesive districts that are representative 02:53:30.790 --> 02:53:32.510 align:middle line:90% of our communities of interest. 02:53:32.510 --> 02:53:36.290 align:middle line:84% A good legislative district is both contiguous and compact. 02:53:36.290 --> 02:53:38.960 align:middle line:84% Somerville is the densest city in New England 02:53:38.960 --> 02:53:42.410 align:middle line:84% and has a land area of just 4.1 square miles. 02:53:42.410 --> 02:53:44.600 align:middle line:84% It doesn't get much more contiguous or compact 02:53:44.600 --> 02:53:45.950 align:middle line:90% than that. 02:53:45.950 --> 02:53:47.840 align:middle line:84% Splitting Somerville between more than one 02:53:47.840 --> 02:53:50.810 align:middle line:84% congressional district or state Senate district 02:53:50.810 --> 02:53:53.120 align:middle line:84% or further splitting it among additional state 02:53:53.120 --> 02:53:55.100 align:middle line:84% legislative districts would create districts 02:53:55.100 --> 02:53:57.560 align:middle line:84% that are less contiguous and compact, 02:53:57.560 --> 02:54:00.410 align:middle line:84% and would harmfully divide our existing political community 02:54:00.410 --> 02:54:01.665 align:middle line:90% and communities of interest. 02:54:01.665 --> 02:54:03.540 align:middle line:84% And it would make it harder for our community 02:54:03.540 --> 02:54:06.590 align:middle line:84% to tackle the collective challenges we face. 02:54:06.590 --> 02:54:09.770 align:middle line:84% It's critical that Somerville have elected representatives 02:54:09.770 --> 02:54:12.800 align:middle line:84% who understand our city's struggles and collective 02:54:12.800 --> 02:54:15.230 align:middle line:84% solutions, from the housing and displacement 02:54:15.230 --> 02:54:17.240 align:middle line:84% crisis, to the related challenges 02:54:17.240 --> 02:54:19.940 align:middle line:84% and opportunities stemming from the ongoing Green Line 02:54:19.940 --> 02:54:21.590 align:middle line:90% extension project. 02:54:21.590 --> 02:54:24.200 align:middle line:84% Keeping Somerville whole in redistricting 02:54:24.200 --> 02:54:28.310 align:middle line:84% is a racial justice issue, an immigrant justice issue, 02:54:28.310 --> 02:54:32.550 align:middle line:84% an economic justice issue, an environmental justice issue, 02:54:32.550 --> 02:54:33.980 align:middle line:90% and so much more. 02:54:33.980 --> 02:54:38.120 align:middle line:84% I ask you to prioritize equity and justice in redistricting, 02:54:38.120 --> 02:54:40.550 align:middle line:84% and to keep Somerville and its communities of interest 02:54:40.550 --> 02:54:43.730 align:middle line:84% together and whole, not to split us apart. 02:54:43.730 --> 02:54:46.730 align:middle line:84% I thank the chairs and the members of the Committee 02:54:46.730 --> 02:54:48.620 align:middle line:84% for the opportunity to speak and share 02:54:48.620 --> 02:54:50.250 align:middle line:90% our communities perspectives. 02:54:50.250 --> 02:54:52.023 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 02:54:52.023 --> 02:54:53.190 align:middle line:90% Thank you for your patience. 02:54:53.190 --> 02:54:56.570 align:middle line:84% We thank you for waiting and taking the time to testify. 02:54:56.570 --> 02:54:57.470 align:middle line:90% Chairman Moran. 02:54:57.470 --> 02:55:00.810 align:middle line:90% 02:55:00.810 --> 02:55:02.040 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Nate. 02:55:02.040 --> 02:55:04.920 align:middle line:84% It's been said a few times now when 02:55:04.920 --> 02:55:09.240 align:middle line:84% referred to the House districts, you know, 02:55:09.240 --> 02:55:11.600 align:middle line:90% people don't want much change. 02:55:11.600 --> 02:55:14.310 align:middle line:84% You know, I don't think people want change anywhere. 02:55:14.310 --> 02:55:18.780 align:middle line:84% But the reality is that the population growth that 02:55:18.780 --> 02:55:23.730 align:middle line:84% has happened in and around that area of Boston, Cambridge, 02:55:23.730 --> 02:55:29.430 align:middle line:84% and Somerville has been quite impressive and well 02:55:29.430 --> 02:55:32.530 align:middle line:90% above the state average. 02:55:32.530 --> 02:55:38.700 align:middle line:84% So there is likely to be some shifting that 02:55:38.700 --> 02:55:42.610 align:middle line:90% has to occur in that area. 02:55:42.610 --> 02:55:46.390 align:middle line:84% Just to give you a sense, your neighbor where a couple of reps 02:55:46.390 --> 02:55:46.890 align:middle line:90% shared-- 02:55:46.890 --> 02:55:52.560 align:middle line:84% Cambridge and Somerville-- you're looking at almost double 02:55:52.560 --> 02:55:56.610 align:middle line:90% what the state growth will be. 02:55:56.610 --> 02:55:59.550 align:middle line:84% So that just means that there are lots of people 02:55:59.550 --> 02:56:02.130 align:middle line:90% and too many for-- 02:56:02.130 --> 02:56:05.040 align:middle line:90% so I just say that, because-- 02:56:05.040 --> 02:56:07.650 align:middle line:84% and sometimes I talk a lot during these hearings-- 02:56:07.650 --> 02:56:10.830 align:middle line:84% just so people get a sense of what we're dealing with. 02:56:10.830 --> 02:56:14.970 align:middle line:84% There are a lot of people in that cluster of Cambridge, 02:56:14.970 --> 02:56:18.390 align:middle line:84% Boston, and Somerville, specifically the area of Boston 02:56:18.390 --> 02:56:21.690 align:middle line:84% that abuts Cambridge, that abuts some of them. 02:56:21.690 --> 02:56:24.760 align:middle line:84% So you're going to see some changes there, 02:56:24.760 --> 02:56:25.752 align:middle line:90% and I would just ask-- 02:56:25.752 --> 02:56:26.460 align:middle line:90% and you're right. 02:56:26.460 --> 02:56:29.370 align:middle line:84% It's up to us to try and figure out and balance the equity 02:56:29.370 --> 02:56:31.800 align:middle line:84% arguments and the social justice arguments 02:56:31.800 --> 02:56:33.810 align:middle line:84% and the community-of-interest arguments, 02:56:33.810 --> 02:56:38.970 align:middle line:84% to draw districts that are the best represent 02:56:38.970 --> 02:56:40.470 align:middle line:90% the people of those communities. 02:56:40.470 --> 02:56:42.130 align:middle line:84% But I just wanted to point that out. 02:56:42.130 --> 02:56:42.630 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 02:56:42.630 --> 02:56:46.540 align:middle line:90% 02:56:46.540 --> 02:56:48.800 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 02:56:48.800 --> 02:56:52.550 align:middle line:84% Other questions, comments from members of the Committee? 02:56:52.550 --> 02:56:55.850 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Sir, for your testimony. 02:56:55.850 --> 02:56:57.864 align:middle line:90% Do we have William Fatherley? 02:56:57.864 --> 02:57:01.660 align:middle line:90% 02:57:01.660 --> 02:57:02.960 align:middle line:90% We do. 02:57:02.960 --> 02:57:03.460 align:middle line:90% Welcome. 02:57:03.460 --> 02:57:07.730 align:middle line:90% 02:57:07.730 --> 02:57:09.500 align:middle line:90% Hello. 02:57:09.500 --> 02:57:13.310 align:middle line:84% You're unmuted, and we hear you, but we do not see you. 02:57:13.310 --> 02:57:13.880 align:middle line:90% There we go. 02:57:13.880 --> 02:57:16.760 align:middle line:90% All the way around. 02:57:16.760 --> 02:57:17.940 align:middle line:90% How's it going? 02:57:17.940 --> 02:57:18.960 align:middle line:90% Good. 02:57:18.960 --> 02:57:21.410 align:middle line:90% Awesome, OK. 02:57:21.410 --> 02:57:24.590 align:middle line:84% First, I'll just thank all the organizing parties, 02:57:24.590 --> 02:57:30.860 align:middle line:84% and then-- so I just am here to echo previous testimony 02:57:30.860 --> 02:57:33.300 align:middle line:90% regarding climate justice. 02:57:33.300 --> 02:57:37.070 align:middle line:84% And I think that just in hashing out councilor, House, 02:57:37.070 --> 02:57:39.350 align:middle line:84% and Senate seats, I hope the Committee will evaluate 02:57:39.350 --> 02:57:42.470 align:middle line:84% the possibility of considering the indicators 02:57:42.470 --> 02:57:45.770 align:middle line:84% of natural disaster susceptibility, 02:57:45.770 --> 02:57:50.840 align:middle line:84% things like elevation above sea level, 02:57:50.840 --> 02:57:54.260 align:middle line:84% ratios of plant coverage to anthropomorphic surfaces, 02:57:54.260 --> 02:57:55.530 align:middle line:90% and things like that. 02:57:55.530 --> 02:57:58.550 align:middle line:84% And I think that these types of features 02:57:58.550 --> 02:58:00.710 align:middle line:84% are going to impact the well-being of residents 02:58:00.710 --> 02:58:05.670 align:middle line:84% in the 7th, and how it looks now and, sort of, in the future. 02:58:05.670 --> 02:58:08.870 align:middle line:90% And so that's just about it. 02:58:08.870 --> 02:58:13.410 align:middle line:84% Hopefully, that can have a good and fair representation. 02:58:13.410 --> 02:58:13.910 align:middle line:90% Yeah. 02:58:13.910 --> 02:58:16.670 align:middle line:90% 02:58:16.670 --> 02:58:20.120 align:middle line:84% Thank you for bringing that dimension of the thought 02:58:20.120 --> 02:58:20.870 align:middle line:90% process up. 02:58:20.870 --> 02:58:24.350 align:middle line:84% It's one that we do need to factor in 02:58:24.350 --> 02:58:27.080 align:middle line:84% from a community-of-interest standpoint. 02:58:27.080 --> 02:58:30.920 align:middle line:84% Questions, comments, members of the Committee? 02:58:30.920 --> 02:58:33.530 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 02:58:33.530 --> 02:58:34.160 align:middle line:90% Jack Perenick? 02:58:34.160 --> 02:58:41.400 align:middle line:90% 02:58:41.400 --> 02:58:42.180 align:middle line:90% Here we go. 02:58:42.180 --> 02:58:44.400 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 02:58:44.400 --> 02:58:49.110 align:middle line:84% I am here today actually, as the committee from Somerville, 02:58:49.110 --> 02:58:51.480 align:middle line:84% to talk about some of the issues that we actually 02:58:51.480 --> 02:58:55.130 align:middle line:84% have as a community for college campuses. 02:58:55.130 --> 02:58:57.450 align:middle line:84% So I live in Somerville, I live more 02:58:57.450 --> 02:59:00.630 align:middle line:84% in the center in the Magoun Square area. 02:59:00.630 --> 02:59:02.520 align:middle line:84% But what's really interesting to look at 02:59:02.520 --> 02:59:04.200 align:middle line:84% is that the Tufts University campus 02:59:04.200 --> 02:59:08.850 align:middle line:84% is split, if you look at it, almost exactly down the middle. 02:59:08.850 --> 02:59:10.500 align:middle line:90% And I'm almost exactly-- 02:59:10.500 --> 02:59:12.090 align:middle line:90% I'm talking about-- 02:59:12.090 --> 02:59:15.930 align:middle line:84% I can't go into the library and check out a book from the A 02:59:15.930 --> 02:59:19.320 align:middle line:84% and [INAUDIBLE] section within the same state House district. 02:59:19.320 --> 02:59:21.250 align:middle line:90% It's just not possible. 02:59:21.250 --> 02:59:23.670 align:middle line:84% It is split straight down the middle. 02:59:23.670 --> 02:59:26.970 align:middle line:84% And I know it's really hard to talk about some of these issues 02:59:26.970 --> 02:59:30.360 align:middle line:84% without seeing the district itself. 02:59:30.360 --> 02:59:33.540 align:middle line:84% And so I put it up here in my background. 02:59:33.540 --> 02:59:35.790 align:middle line:84% But these are the two, kind of, primary districts 02:59:35.790 --> 02:59:38.880 align:middle line:90% of 27th Middlesex and 34th. 02:59:38.880 --> 02:59:43.470 align:middle line:84% Middlesex is blue and pink salmon color here. 02:59:43.470 --> 02:59:45.840 align:middle line:84% And what I would like to ask the Committee to do 02:59:45.840 --> 02:59:49.200 align:middle line:84% is it takes a closer look at redistricting this year-- 02:59:49.200 --> 02:59:51.870 align:middle line:84% is making sure that college campuses, especially ones that 02:59:51.870 --> 02:59:54.720 align:middle line:84% are so evenly divided like that, to be 02:59:54.720 --> 02:59:56.970 align:middle line:90% put into the same districts. 02:59:56.970 --> 02:59:59.310 align:middle line:84% And this is serendipitous with the fact 02:59:59.310 --> 03:00:01.290 align:middle line:84% that, given the way that population growth has 03:00:01.290 --> 03:00:04.110 align:middle line:84% been going, and given the fact that a lot of districts 03:00:04.110 --> 03:00:06.330 align:middle line:84% in the western part of the state want 03:00:06.330 --> 03:00:08.730 align:middle line:84% to be at the lower end of the population spectrum, 03:00:08.730 --> 03:00:11.230 align:middle line:84% this is also an opportunity to enlarge these [? districts ?] 03:00:11.230 --> 03:00:13.650 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] any piece of them. 03:00:13.650 --> 03:00:16.590 align:middle line:84% And so essentially, what I, kind of, propose here 03:00:16.590 --> 03:00:20.610 align:middle line:84% is that the district should undergo a precinct split. 03:00:20.610 --> 03:00:24.420 align:middle line:84% Because it isn't possible to neatly hold parts 03:00:24.420 --> 03:00:27.630 align:middle line:84% in the one district without coming apart Medford. 03:00:27.630 --> 03:00:30.690 align:middle line:84% Unfortunately because Medford Ward 4 03:00:30.690 --> 03:00:33.030 align:middle line:84% and has a unique shape, where it goes 03:00:33.030 --> 03:00:35.130 align:middle line:84% all the way to the hillside, almost all 03:00:35.130 --> 03:00:36.570 align:middle line:90% the way to the river. 03:00:36.570 --> 03:00:40.230 align:middle line:84% However, you can very neatly, by just moving these three blocks 03:00:40.230 --> 03:00:44.400 align:middle line:84% here, move the entirety of Tufts into the 27th Middlesex 03:00:44.400 --> 03:00:47.340 align:middle line:84% district without completely severing it. 03:00:47.340 --> 03:00:49.410 align:middle line:84% This also has the added benefit of moving 03:00:49.410 --> 03:00:51.210 align:middle line:84% the entirety of the Green Line extension 03:00:51.210 --> 03:00:52.800 align:middle line:84% into one district, which is great. 03:00:52.800 --> 03:00:56.031 align:middle line:84% Right now, it leaves out-- it runs right here. 03:00:56.031 --> 03:00:59.460 align:middle line:84% It runs in and out of the district about three times. 03:00:59.460 --> 03:01:01.740 align:middle line:84% It would be excellent, especially in the [INAUDIBLE] 03:01:01.740 --> 03:01:03.300 align:middle line:84% way, to get back in one district, 03:01:03.300 --> 03:01:05.300 align:middle line:84% and then you have the terminus of the Green Line 03:01:05.300 --> 03:01:07.710 align:middle line:84% extension in the same district as it goes all the way up 03:01:07.710 --> 03:01:09.000 align:middle line:90% to Somerville. 03:01:09.000 --> 03:01:11.067 align:middle line:90% And it's certainly not-- 03:01:11.067 --> 03:01:12.900 align:middle line:84% of course, Representative Barber's district, 03:01:12.900 --> 03:01:15.600 align:middle line:84% the 34th Middlesex here already comes in and out 03:01:15.600 --> 03:01:18.340 align:middle line:84% of Medford and Somerville in three places. 03:01:18.340 --> 03:01:23.040 align:middle line:84% And so this certainly isn't unprecedented to go in and out 03:01:23.040 --> 03:01:24.990 align:middle line:90% of the city lines like this. 03:01:24.990 --> 03:01:27.570 align:middle line:84% By making this very precise change, 03:01:27.570 --> 03:01:30.870 align:middle line:84% it could really help to make the district united 03:01:30.870 --> 03:01:32.225 align:middle line:90% in a college campus sense. 03:01:32.225 --> 03:01:33.600 align:middle line:84% I know that that's something that 03:01:33.600 --> 03:01:35.970 align:middle line:84% has been a particular issue in other areas, 03:01:35.970 --> 03:01:38.130 align:middle line:84% just because of the way the population works out 03:01:38.130 --> 03:01:40.110 align:middle line:84% and making sure that all of the districts 03:01:40.110 --> 03:01:42.360 align:middle line:90% have the requisite majorities. 03:01:42.360 --> 03:01:44.130 align:middle line:84% But this is an area where you really 03:01:44.130 --> 03:01:47.910 align:middle line:84% can't fit the whole community into the district neatly. 03:01:47.910 --> 03:01:51.760 align:middle line:84% By just making this modification here, it is-- 03:01:51.760 --> 03:01:53.760 align:middle line:84% the college campus as a community-of-interest is 03:01:53.760 --> 03:01:57.300 align:middle line:84% a little special, because it has students like myself-- 03:01:57.300 --> 03:02:02.160 align:middle line:84% I'll be voting for the first time in the 2022 elections. 03:02:02.160 --> 03:02:03.900 align:middle line:84% When you have college campuses that 03:02:03.900 --> 03:02:06.780 align:middle line:84% can't have candidate forum for the same candidates, 03:02:06.780 --> 03:02:09.060 align:middle line:84% when they can't petition the same representatives 03:02:09.060 --> 03:02:11.040 align:middle line:84% for [? redress, ?] you have a weird issue 03:02:11.040 --> 03:02:13.665 align:middle line:84% where people who are voting for the first time, whether they're 03:02:13.665 --> 03:02:15.870 align:middle line:84% resident on campus or in the surrounding areas, 03:02:15.870 --> 03:02:17.610 align:middle line:84% can't participate in the same election 03:02:17.610 --> 03:02:19.290 align:middle line:90% or in the same political ethos. 03:02:19.290 --> 03:02:21.660 align:middle line:84% And so as a community of interest, 03:02:21.660 --> 03:02:23.220 align:middle line:84% splitting college campuses like this 03:02:23.220 --> 03:02:25.420 align:middle line:84% has a particularly detrimental effect, 03:02:25.420 --> 03:02:28.260 align:middle line:84% because it is where so much politicalization 03:02:28.260 --> 03:02:30.267 align:middle line:90% and education happen. 03:02:30.267 --> 03:02:32.850 align:middle line:84% And so I would really advocate that, especially at a time when 03:02:32.850 --> 03:02:35.140 align:middle line:84% these districts need to pick up new populations, 03:02:35.140 --> 03:02:37.320 align:middle line:84% it do so by neatly clipping Tufts 03:02:37.320 --> 03:02:40.290 align:middle line:84% into one district within the 27th Middlesex, 03:02:40.290 --> 03:02:43.565 align:middle line:84% and hopefully that could create a more united community here. 03:02:43.565 --> 03:02:44.940 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for taking this 03:02:44.940 --> 03:02:48.170 align:middle line:84% and I'll hopefully keep it brief there. 03:02:48.170 --> 03:02:50.210 align:middle line:84% Thank you for your careful analysis. 03:02:50.210 --> 03:02:52.280 align:middle line:90% That's appreciated. 03:02:52.280 --> 03:02:55.290 align:middle line:84% Maybe you can make sure that you send us those slides. 03:02:55.290 --> 03:02:56.750 align:middle line:90% Certainly [INAUDIBLE]. 03:02:56.750 --> 03:02:59.910 align:middle line:84% --via our address, which Andrew maybe 03:02:59.910 --> 03:03:01.560 align:middle line:84% can just pop into the chat to make sure 03:03:01.560 --> 03:03:03.930 align:middle line:90% you have it conveniently. 03:03:03.930 --> 03:03:05.190 align:middle line:90% Appreciate that. 03:03:05.190 --> 03:03:08.700 align:middle line:84% Any questions from members of the Committee? 03:03:08.700 --> 03:03:12.940 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony. 03:03:12.940 --> 03:03:18.770 align:middle line:84% Is Amber Davis-- what's the next one you see, Maeve? 03:03:18.770 --> 03:03:20.105 align:middle line:90% I see Richard Phipps. 03:03:20.105 --> 03:03:23.750 align:middle line:90% 03:03:23.750 --> 03:03:25.430 align:middle line:90% The next one, I'm sorry, is who? 03:03:25.430 --> 03:03:28.130 align:middle line:84% I see Richard Phipps on the list that I'm looking at. 03:03:28.130 --> 03:03:31.430 align:middle line:90% 03:03:31.430 --> 03:03:35.510 align:middle line:90% Jack was on the list twice, so-- 03:03:35.510 --> 03:03:36.980 align:middle line:90% I got you, OK. 03:03:36.980 --> 03:03:37.820 align:middle line:90% I got you. 03:03:37.820 --> 03:03:41.960 align:middle line:84% OK, so Mitchell [? Drescher ?] is not here. 03:03:41.960 --> 03:03:43.460 align:middle line:84% Again, we'll always come back to you 03:03:43.460 --> 03:03:47.270 align:middle line:84% if you [? bang ?] us in the chat. 03:03:47.270 --> 03:03:50.480 align:middle line:84% Richard Phipps, I understand, is here. 03:03:50.480 --> 03:03:58.850 align:middle line:90% 03:03:58.850 --> 03:04:01.670 align:middle line:84% Richard Phipps, you are still on mute. 03:04:01.670 --> 03:04:05.240 align:middle line:90% 03:04:05.240 --> 03:04:06.350 align:middle line:90% He has to unmute. 03:04:06.350 --> 03:04:12.412 align:middle line:90% 03:04:12.412 --> 03:04:14.870 align:middle line:84% OK, so I'm going to think that Richard Phipps has gone away 03:04:14.870 --> 03:04:15.600 align:middle line:90% from his screen. 03:04:15.600 --> 03:04:16.100 align:middle line:90% No, no. 03:04:16.100 --> 03:04:17.510 align:middle line:90% Am I unmuted? 03:04:17.510 --> 03:04:18.800 align:middle line:90% Yeah, now we got you. 03:04:18.800 --> 03:04:20.010 align:middle line:90% Now we hear you. 03:04:20.010 --> 03:04:22.430 align:middle line:90% OK. 03:04:22.430 --> 03:04:26.270 align:middle line:84% My apologies for my lack of technical skills. 03:04:26.270 --> 03:04:27.440 align:middle line:90% No apology needed. 03:04:27.440 --> 03:04:31.860 align:middle line:84% We're all clicking our way through this process here. 03:04:31.860 --> 03:04:34.670 align:middle line:84% My name is Richard Phipps, and I come 03:04:34.670 --> 03:04:42.380 align:middle line:84% from the fine area of Boston commonly known as Mattapan, 03:04:42.380 --> 03:04:43.280 align:middle line:90% where my offices are. 03:04:43.280 --> 03:04:47.390 align:middle line:84% And I live just across the line in Hyde Park, 03:04:47.390 --> 03:04:51.110 align:middle line:84% representing urban sites in the Greater Boston Chapter 03:04:51.110 --> 03:04:53.480 align:middle line:84% Realties, Urban Sites, Housing and Economic Development 03:04:53.480 --> 03:04:55.340 align:middle line:90% Corporation. 03:04:55.340 --> 03:04:59.780 align:middle line:84% Thanks for coming us, the Committee and Chairs 03:04:59.780 --> 03:05:02.360 align:middle line:90% Brownsberger and Moran. 03:05:02.360 --> 03:05:06.960 align:middle line:84% I first want to speak to the eloquence with which 03:05:06.960 --> 03:05:09.230 align:middle line:84% Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley addressed 03:05:09.230 --> 03:05:11.720 align:middle line:90% the concerns of our district. 03:05:11.720 --> 03:05:16.130 align:middle line:84% And I dare say, I know the hard work she does. 03:05:16.130 --> 03:05:18.830 align:middle line:84% She must have a source beyond what's 03:05:18.830 --> 03:05:21.350 align:middle line:84% normal to call on to do the work she does 03:05:21.350 --> 03:05:24.000 align:middle line:84% and keep the days that she does as well. 03:05:24.000 --> 03:05:27.920 align:middle line:84% So thank you, Congresswoman Pressley, for the work you do. 03:05:27.920 --> 03:05:33.290 align:middle line:84% I address a unique corner of this process of redistricting 03:05:33.290 --> 03:05:38.480 align:middle line:84% as it relates to housing and economic development. 03:05:38.480 --> 03:05:42.410 align:middle line:84% And I hope that as you look at the district, 03:05:42.410 --> 03:05:46.660 align:middle line:84% the population in Massachusetts increased by about 250,000, 03:05:46.660 --> 03:05:51.260 align:middle line:90% 260,000, since 2010. 03:05:51.260 --> 03:05:54.590 align:middle line:84% And most of that is in the Eastern part of Massachusetts 03:05:54.590 --> 03:05:57.290 align:middle line:84% and a significant portion in the district 03:05:57.290 --> 03:05:58.880 align:middle line:90% that we're speaking of. 03:05:58.880 --> 03:06:05.090 align:middle line:84% Understanding Chairman Moran's explanation 03:06:05.090 --> 03:06:09.620 align:middle line:84% about the reduction in numbers is certainly appropriate 03:06:09.620 --> 03:06:11.690 align:middle line:90% and understood. 03:06:11.690 --> 03:06:14.060 align:middle line:84% As we look at this whole process, 03:06:14.060 --> 03:06:18.140 align:middle line:84% it speaks to numbers, people, and resources-- 03:06:18.140 --> 03:06:21.580 align:middle line:84% the allocation of resources based on numbers. 03:06:21.580 --> 03:06:25.290 align:middle line:84% So if we're able to maintain the core, 03:06:25.290 --> 03:06:28.320 align:middle line:84% or as we have heard so many times today, 03:06:28.320 --> 03:06:36.330 align:middle line:84% the majority-minority core, communities of interest, 03:06:36.330 --> 03:06:39.660 align:middle line:84% in those specific areas we address, 03:06:39.660 --> 03:06:43.080 align:middle line:84% that would go a long way towards addressing the needs that 03:06:43.080 --> 03:06:45.270 align:middle line:90% have already been identified. 03:06:45.270 --> 03:06:49.890 align:middle line:84% And we hope that as you make the adjustments-- 03:06:49.890 --> 03:06:51.610 align:middle line:84% we're known as a very progressive society 03:06:51.610 --> 03:06:53.110 align:middle line:84% in Massachusetts, and gerrymandering 03:06:53.110 --> 03:06:56.610 align:middle line:84% is probably not a [INAUDIBLE],, but certainly something 03:06:56.610 --> 03:06:58.380 align:middle line:84% that we have to be mindful of as we 03:06:58.380 --> 03:07:00.030 align:middle line:90% are realigning these districts. 03:07:00.030 --> 03:07:03.120 align:middle line:84% And I'm quite pleased with the openness of the committee 03:07:03.120 --> 03:07:06.450 align:middle line:84% to consider all the issues that have been addressed [INAUDIBLE] 03:07:06.450 --> 03:07:10.170 align:middle line:90% pledge to address those issues. 03:07:10.170 --> 03:07:13.800 align:middle line:84% The last item that I'd like to note 03:07:13.800 --> 03:07:15.750 align:middle line:84% is, I've been in the Greater Boston area 03:07:15.750 --> 03:07:20.820 align:middle line:84% for almost 50 years, and this is the first time 03:07:20.820 --> 03:07:23.820 align:middle line:84% that I've received an invitation or information 03:07:23.820 --> 03:07:28.110 align:middle line:90% about the redistricting hearing. 03:07:28.110 --> 03:07:32.070 align:middle line:84% And I probably should have been following the Mass 03:07:32.070 --> 03:07:37.710 align:middle line:84% legislative agenda, as I heard, but with so many things 03:07:37.710 --> 03:07:40.980 align:middle line:84% happening, it's difficult to isolate any single item 03:07:40.980 --> 03:07:42.450 align:middle line:90% in our busy lives. 03:07:42.450 --> 03:07:48.060 align:middle line:84% So being reminded or having these out front items 03:07:48.060 --> 03:07:51.150 align:middle line:84% as important as this when they're happening-- 03:07:51.150 --> 03:07:54.365 align:middle line:84% I heard the request today to share the information, 03:07:54.365 --> 03:07:55.740 align:middle line:84% and I certainly will look forward 03:07:55.740 --> 03:07:58.930 align:middle line:84% to doing that with our constituents in the future, 03:07:58.930 --> 03:08:00.540 align:middle line:90% so that they are aware of it. 03:08:00.540 --> 03:08:06.750 align:middle line:84% Because without the outreach from Congresswoman Pressley, 03:08:06.750 --> 03:08:09.190 align:middle line:84% I probably would have missed this one again. 03:08:09.190 --> 03:08:13.290 align:middle line:84% So thanks for the outreach, and I look forward 03:08:13.290 --> 03:08:17.520 align:middle line:84% to the outcome of the work that you do, 03:08:17.520 --> 03:08:21.510 align:middle line:84% and hopefully, all the information that was provided 03:08:21.510 --> 03:08:23.550 align:middle line:84% will be considered, and we will wind up 03:08:23.550 --> 03:08:25.650 align:middle line:84% with a win-win situation on both sides 03:08:25.650 --> 03:08:28.260 align:middle line:90% of the fence and the aisle. 03:08:28.260 --> 03:08:29.340 align:middle line:90% May it be so. 03:08:29.340 --> 03:08:32.160 align:middle line:90% Thank you for your testimony. 03:08:32.160 --> 03:08:35.141 align:middle line:84% Question, comments from members of the Committee? 03:08:35.141 --> 03:08:37.730 align:middle line:90% 03:08:37.730 --> 03:08:39.727 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much, Sir, for testifying. 03:08:39.727 --> 03:08:40.310 align:middle line:90% Appreciate it. 03:08:40.310 --> 03:08:43.310 align:middle line:90% 03:08:43.310 --> 03:08:45.710 align:middle line:84% Who is the next person that you see, Maeve? 03:08:45.710 --> 03:08:48.950 align:middle line:84% We have Dr. Reyes Coll-Tellechea. 03:08:48.950 --> 03:08:49.820 align:middle line:90% OK. 03:08:49.820 --> 03:08:53.930 align:middle line:84% So in between, there's Linda Jenkins and Peggy James. 03:08:53.930 --> 03:08:59.280 align:middle line:84% If we've missed you, just give us a holler in the chat. 03:08:59.280 --> 03:09:03.490 align:middle line:84% But I'm going to go now to Dr. Reyes Coll-- 03:09:03.490 --> 03:09:05.480 align:middle line:84% please help me with your last name. 03:09:05.480 --> 03:09:06.770 align:middle line:90% Tellechea. 03:09:06.770 --> 03:09:07.790 align:middle line:90% Tellechea. 03:09:07.790 --> 03:09:08.810 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 03:09:08.810 --> 03:09:11.910 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:09:11.910 --> 03:09:17.140 align:middle line:84% My name is Reyes Coll-Tellechea, and I'm a Hispanic immigrant. 03:09:17.140 --> 03:09:19.560 align:middle line:84% I am a UMass Boston Professor, where 03:09:19.560 --> 03:09:25.440 align:middle line:84% I have worked for 28 years, and a member of the Boston Human 03:09:25.440 --> 03:09:27.930 align:middle line:90% Rights Commission. 03:09:27.930 --> 03:09:31.600 align:middle line:90% I'm here on my own behalf. 03:09:31.600 --> 03:09:34.260 align:middle line:84% I live with my wife, [? Shana, ?] 03:09:34.260 --> 03:09:41.160 align:middle line:84% in what the map usually calls Dorchester Center. 03:09:41.160 --> 03:09:48.030 align:middle line:84% But we call it Four Corners, Fields Corner, Saint Marks, 03:09:48.030 --> 03:09:51.660 align:middle line:90% Codman, or Bowdoin Geneva. 03:09:51.660 --> 03:09:55.950 align:middle line:84% Ours is a vibrant, culturally rich, and diverse community 03:09:55.950 --> 03:09:58.470 align:middle line:90% in every sense of the word. 03:09:58.470 --> 03:10:03.420 align:middle line:84% It is home to Little Saigon in Fields Corner, Saint Mark's 03:10:03.420 --> 03:10:09.780 align:middle line:84% parish, Caribbean Codman Square, and Cape Verdean Bowdoin 03:10:09.780 --> 03:10:11.980 align:middle line:90% Geneva. 03:10:11.980 --> 03:10:15.720 align:middle line:84% It is an urban space made of single-family houses 03:10:15.720 --> 03:10:20.190 align:middle line:84% and [INAUDIBLE],, owners and renters of all ages, 03:10:20.190 --> 03:10:24.540 align:middle line:84% new immigrants like me, and deeply rooted communities 03:10:24.540 --> 03:10:29.070 align:middle line:84% of African Americans and Irish Americans. 03:10:29.070 --> 03:10:34.410 align:middle line:84% It is a community defined by its deep human connections 03:10:34.410 --> 03:10:38.970 align:middle line:84% and its very specific challenges in the areas 03:10:38.970 --> 03:10:44.580 align:middle line:84% of public education at all levels, health disparities, 03:10:44.580 --> 03:10:49.890 align:middle line:84% housing insecurity, and environmental justice. 03:10:49.890 --> 03:10:54.710 align:middle line:84% It is a politically aware and politically active 03:10:54.710 --> 03:10:57.040 align:middle line:90% urban community. 03:10:57.040 --> 03:11:02.780 align:middle line:84% It has strong civic associations and political representation, 03:11:02.780 --> 03:11:09.620 align:middle line:84% and it has, I will say it again, very specific needs and goals. 03:11:09.620 --> 03:11:12.770 align:middle line:84% It has made a huge difference in our lives 03:11:12.770 --> 03:11:16.400 align:middle line:84% to have a Congress representative who understands 03:11:16.400 --> 03:11:20.530 align:middle line:90% us fully and deeply. 03:11:20.530 --> 03:11:24.490 align:middle line:90% Representation does matter. 03:11:24.490 --> 03:11:29.980 align:middle line:84% Defined by a strong identity as a majority-minority community 03:11:29.980 --> 03:11:34.090 align:middle line:84% of interest, this is a Boston community 03:11:34.090 --> 03:11:38.620 align:middle line:84% that ought to be preserved, respected, 03:11:38.620 --> 03:11:45.980 align:middle line:84% attentively served, and not diluted or divided in any way. 03:11:45.980 --> 03:11:50.090 align:middle line:84% We belong in Massachusetts District 7, 03:11:50.090 --> 03:11:54.410 align:middle line:90% and I am proud to be part of it. 03:11:54.410 --> 03:11:59.460 align:middle line:84% Finally, allow me to thank you so very much for your service. 03:11:59.460 --> 03:12:05.540 align:middle line:84% It is much needed in these very dark times. 03:12:05.540 --> 03:12:07.830 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:12:07.830 --> 03:12:11.490 align:middle line:84% Thank you for your thoughtful testimony, Doctor. 03:12:11.490 --> 03:12:13.358 align:middle line:90% Chairman Moran? 03:12:13.358 --> 03:12:14.025 align:middle line:90% Let's Go, UMass. 03:12:14.025 --> 03:12:18.120 align:middle line:90% [CHUCKLE] 03:12:18.120 --> 03:12:19.680 align:middle line:90% OK. 03:12:19.680 --> 03:12:23.400 align:middle line:90% Thumbs up all around. 03:12:23.400 --> 03:12:25.620 align:middle line:90% Any comments from others? 03:12:25.620 --> 03:12:27.600 align:middle line:90% Questions? 03:12:27.600 --> 03:12:29.100 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much, Doctor, for being 03:12:29.100 --> 03:12:30.350 align:middle line:90% with us and for your patience. 03:12:30.350 --> 03:12:33.620 align:middle line:90% 03:12:33.620 --> 03:12:35.450 align:middle line:90% Maeve, who is next? 03:12:35.450 --> 03:12:37.790 align:middle line:84% I believe we have [? Daisy ?] Gutierrez, who 03:12:37.790 --> 03:12:41.255 align:middle line:84% I think is on a panel, if I'm not mistaken. 03:12:41.255 --> 03:12:45.820 align:middle line:90% 03:12:45.820 --> 03:12:47.250 align:middle line:90% Oh [? Daisy ?] Gutierrez. 03:12:47.250 --> 03:12:50.070 align:middle line:90% OK, gotcha. 03:12:50.070 --> 03:12:53.250 align:middle line:84% So I'm going to recite the names in between, 03:12:53.250 --> 03:12:56.310 align:middle line:84% in case we missed anybody before we go to you, 03:12:56.310 --> 03:12:58.900 align:middle line:84% [? Daisy ?] Bear with us a moment. 03:12:58.900 --> 03:13:04.310 align:middle line:84% So [? Gail ?] [? Jackson ?] [? Blount, ?] Anthony Brewer, 03:13:04.310 --> 03:13:12.770 align:middle line:84% not here, Amber Davis, [? Adriana ?] Ramirez, 03:13:12.770 --> 03:13:19.680 align:middle line:84% Stephen [? Hough, ?] Ronald Lammy, 03:13:19.680 --> 03:13:23.370 align:middle line:90% Tanya Fernandez Anderson. 03:13:23.370 --> 03:13:27.640 align:middle line:84% If we've missed you, know that we will respond 03:13:27.640 --> 03:13:28.900 align:middle line:90% if you hit us in a chat. 03:13:28.900 --> 03:13:34.020 align:middle line:90% 03:13:34.020 --> 03:13:37.090 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much, [? Daisy ?] Gutierrez. 03:13:37.090 --> 03:13:39.710 align:middle line:84% Are there other members of the panel with you? 03:13:39.710 --> 03:13:40.930 align:middle line:90% Do we have everybody? 03:13:40.930 --> 03:13:43.090 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] anybody else? 03:13:43.090 --> 03:13:45.400 align:middle line:84% I see Marisol, ready to translate. 03:13:45.400 --> 03:13:46.150 align:middle line:90% Great. 03:13:46.150 --> 03:13:49.540 align:middle line:84% All right, Marisol, why don't you 03:13:49.540 --> 03:13:53.960 align:middle line:84% let the panelists know that we're ready to hear them? 03:13:53.960 --> 03:13:56.450 align:middle line:84% Great thank you, Mr. Chairman and all. 03:13:56.450 --> 03:13:58.100 align:middle line:90% Is my audio OK? 03:13:58.100 --> 03:13:59.390 align:middle line:90% It is. 03:13:59.390 --> 03:14:00.620 align:middle line:90% Great, thank you. 03:14:00.620 --> 03:14:04.610 align:middle line:84% We did have a third panelist for purposes of your speaker list, 03:14:04.610 --> 03:14:08.570 align:middle line:84% [? Heidi ?] [? Mayorga, ?] who unfortunately could not be 03:14:08.570 --> 03:14:10.940 align:middle line:84% present to testify at this time with the panel. 03:14:10.940 --> 03:14:14.180 align:middle line:84% So it will be [? Daisy ?] and [? Raina, ?] and I will be 03:14:14.180 --> 03:14:16.340 align:middle line:90% translating for [? Raina. ?] 03:14:16.340 --> 03:14:18.340 align:middle line:90% Wonderful. 03:14:18.340 --> 03:14:19.820 align:middle line:90% So who would like to go first? 03:14:19.820 --> 03:14:25.260 align:middle line:90% 03:14:25.260 --> 03:14:26.470 align:middle line:90% I can start. 03:14:26.470 --> 03:14:28.690 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:14:28.690 --> 03:14:33.660 align:middle line:84% So good afternoon, everyone, and thank you, Ayanna Pressley, 03:14:33.660 --> 03:14:38.880 align:middle line:84% for being here today and hearing about this important issue. 03:14:38.880 --> 03:14:41.160 align:middle line:84% As mentioned, my name is [? Daisy ?] Gutierrez, 03:14:41.160 --> 03:14:44.430 align:middle line:84% and I am here with Neighbors United for a Better East 03:14:44.430 --> 03:14:46.193 align:middle line:90% Boston, NUBE. 03:14:46.193 --> 03:14:50.160 align:middle line:84% I'm a community organizer and a long-term resident 03:14:50.160 --> 03:14:51.660 align:middle line:90% of East Boston. 03:14:51.660 --> 03:14:54.300 align:middle line:84% I've been in East Boston since 2006, 03:14:54.300 --> 03:14:56.610 align:middle line:84% and I've seen the changes that the years have 03:14:56.610 --> 03:14:58.560 align:middle line:90% brought with them. 03:14:58.560 --> 03:15:03.540 align:middle line:84% One of the places in my town that has changed drastically 03:15:03.540 --> 03:15:08.130 align:middle line:84% is Maverick Square, the heart of East Boston. 03:15:08.130 --> 03:15:10.470 align:middle line:84% I remember seven years ago, standing 03:15:10.470 --> 03:15:14.880 align:middle line:84% at the Maverick Waterfront after a shift I completed. 03:15:14.880 --> 03:15:17.340 align:middle line:84% At this point, I was, like, 14 years old, 03:15:17.340 --> 03:15:20.670 align:middle line:84% and I had been working at Maverick Landing Community 03:15:20.670 --> 03:15:21.690 align:middle line:90% Service. 03:15:21.690 --> 03:15:25.150 align:middle line:84% And I was there as part of their youth program, 03:15:25.150 --> 03:15:27.450 align:middle line:84% and that's where I learned a lot about the importance 03:15:27.450 --> 03:15:29.300 align:middle line:90% of my community. 03:15:29.300 --> 03:15:33.260 align:middle line:84% So while standing there, an old man approached me, 03:15:33.260 --> 03:15:38.150 align:middle line:84% and he asked for my input in luxury condos. 03:15:38.150 --> 03:15:41.660 align:middle line:84% And at the time, I didn't know what luxury condos were. 03:15:41.660 --> 03:15:43.160 align:middle line:84% He mentioned how much money he could 03:15:43.160 --> 03:15:46.310 align:middle line:84% make if he put a few buildings around the area. 03:15:46.310 --> 03:15:48.050 align:middle line:84% And I responded to him that there 03:15:48.050 --> 03:15:51.650 align:middle line:84% was a low-income community just across the street. 03:15:51.650 --> 03:15:54.950 align:middle line:84% He shrugged his shoulders, and seven years later, here we 03:15:54.950 --> 03:15:56.420 align:middle line:84% are, with the Maverick Waterfront, 03:15:56.420 --> 03:16:01.160 align:middle line:84% and it's completely different from the rest of East Boston. 03:16:01.160 --> 03:16:03.770 align:middle line:84% The heart of East Boston, Maverick Square, 03:16:03.770 --> 03:16:06.740 align:middle line:84% has been divided not only by housing accessibility, 03:16:06.740 --> 03:16:09.955 align:middle line:90% but economically and culturally. 03:16:09.955 --> 03:16:11.330 align:middle line:84% When walking down the street, you 03:16:11.330 --> 03:16:14.180 align:middle line:84% can point out who lives in the Maverick affordable housing 03:16:14.180 --> 03:16:17.750 align:middle line:84% units and who lives in the fancy waterfront condos. 03:16:17.750 --> 03:16:20.300 align:middle line:84% You can see who has access to the fun amenities that 03:16:20.300 --> 03:16:23.900 align:middle line:84% the waterfront has now, and who doesn't. 03:16:23.900 --> 03:16:26.210 align:middle line:84% You could tell whose neighbors got displaced 03:16:26.210 --> 03:16:29.610 align:middle line:90% and who just moved in. 03:16:29.610 --> 03:16:32.520 align:middle line:84% What is worrisome about this is that the small businesses 03:16:32.520 --> 03:16:35.730 align:middle line:84% surrounding the Maverick are mostly all Latinx. 03:16:35.730 --> 03:16:39.990 align:middle line:84% They cater culturally to the Latinx culture. 03:16:39.990 --> 03:16:43.170 align:middle line:84% Most of the Maverick residents aren't Latinx. 03:16:43.170 --> 03:16:47.490 align:middle line:84% And if they are, they shop at [INAUDIBLE] and not the bodegas 03:16:47.490 --> 03:16:49.740 align:middle line:90% surrounding the area. 03:16:49.740 --> 03:16:51.780 align:middle line:84% This makes me think of how the demographic will 03:16:51.780 --> 03:16:55.220 align:middle line:84% impact the economy of these businesses. 03:16:55.220 --> 03:16:58.320 align:middle line:84% There is so much growing division in Maverick square 03:16:58.320 --> 03:17:00.270 align:middle line:90% and in all of Eastie. 03:17:00.270 --> 03:17:02.460 align:middle line:84% And that is why I want to the state here today 03:17:02.460 --> 03:17:06.480 align:middle line:84% that my community can no longer afford another division 03:17:06.480 --> 03:17:08.820 align:middle line:90% and another separation. 03:17:08.820 --> 03:17:12.420 align:middle line:84% My hope is that as we draw new redistricting lines, 03:17:12.420 --> 03:17:15.120 align:middle line:84% the heart of Eastie will be kept together 03:17:15.120 --> 03:17:18.600 align:middle line:84% and the Committee here will hear us as residents. 03:17:18.600 --> 03:17:20.370 align:middle line:84% And thank you all for listening today. 03:17:20.370 --> 03:17:24.030 align:middle line:90% 03:17:24.030 --> 03:17:25.830 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much for your testimony. 03:17:25.830 --> 03:17:31.020 align:middle line:90% 03:17:31.020 --> 03:17:37.010 align:middle line:84% Now, [? Raina? ?] Marisol, would you like to bring [? Raina ?] 03:17:37.010 --> 03:17:39.910 align:middle line:90% on to testify? 03:17:39.910 --> 03:17:41.020 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:17:41.020 --> 03:17:42.340 align:middle line:90% [SPEAKING SPANISH] 03:17:42.340 --> 03:18:25.410 align:middle line:90% 03:18:25.410 --> 03:18:28.120 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon to everyone here. 03:18:28.120 --> 03:18:29.660 align:middle line:84% My name is [? Raina ?] [INAUDIBLE].. 03:18:29.660 --> 03:18:33.090 align:middle line:84% I'd like to thank our Congresswoman, Ayanna Pressley, 03:18:33.090 --> 03:18:36.010 align:middle line:84% and the Committee for listening to us this morning. 03:18:36.010 --> 03:18:39.300 align:middle line:84% It is an honor for me to address the first African-American 03:18:39.300 --> 03:18:45.100 align:middle line:84% woman elected in Massachusetts as my Congresswoman. 03:18:45.100 --> 03:18:46.860 align:middle line:90% [SPEAKING SPANISH] 03:18:46.860 --> 03:18:55.110 align:middle line:90% 03:18:55.110 --> 03:18:58.360 align:middle line:84% I am here today with Neighbors United for a Better East 03:18:58.360 --> 03:19:00.860 align:middle line:90% Boston, also known as NUBE. 03:19:00.860 --> 03:19:03.225 align:middle line:90% [SPEAKING SPANISH] 03:19:03.225 --> 03:19:21.624 align:middle line:90% 03:19:21.624 --> 03:19:25.320 align:middle line:84% Our organization has been working hard for over a decade, 03:19:25.320 --> 03:19:28.620 align:middle line:84% collectively focused on empowering our community 03:19:28.620 --> 03:19:31.260 align:middle line:84% through voter registration, civic engagement, 03:19:31.260 --> 03:19:35.730 align:middle line:84% and developing abundant community leaders. 03:19:35.730 --> 03:19:37.740 align:middle line:90% [SPEAKING SPANISH] 03:19:37.740 --> 03:20:09.226 align:middle line:90% 03:20:09.226 --> 03:20:14.080 align:middle line:84% We can say that we have been building strategically and in 03:20:14.080 --> 03:20:16.090 align:middle line:90% a very intentional way. 03:20:16.090 --> 03:20:18.040 align:middle line:84% Through building [? local ?] power, 03:20:18.040 --> 03:20:21.310 align:middle line:84% we have worked to elect authentic representatives. 03:20:21.310 --> 03:20:24.475 align:middle line:84% We were able to elect our Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley 03:20:24.475 --> 03:20:27.250 align:middle line:84% in District 7, and our vision is that we 03:20:27.250 --> 03:20:31.360 align:middle line:84% will continue to elect authentic representation in all levels 03:20:31.360 --> 03:20:34.800 align:middle line:90% in our neighborhood. 03:20:34.800 --> 03:20:36.720 align:middle line:90% [SPEAKING SPANISH] 03:20:36.720 --> 03:20:55.890 align:middle line:90% 03:20:55.890 --> 03:20:59.260 align:middle line:84% One of our neighborhoods of interest in particular 03:20:59.260 --> 03:21:03.130 align:middle line:84% is Shore Plaza, literally part of Eagle Hill. 03:21:03.130 --> 03:21:05.200 align:middle line:84% Our neighborhood has been fighting 03:21:05.200 --> 03:21:09.820 align:middle line:84% [INAUDIBLE] and the pandemic that 03:21:09.820 --> 03:21:12.250 align:middle line:84% hit our community made everything 03:21:12.250 --> 03:21:14.750 align:middle line:90% that much more difficult. 03:21:14.750 --> 03:21:15.860 align:middle line:90% [SPEAKING SPANISH] 03:21:15.860 --> 03:21:35.280 align:middle line:90% 03:21:35.280 --> 03:21:38.040 align:middle line:84% We have also been immersed in the fight 03:21:38.040 --> 03:21:45.350 align:middle line:84% against a substation proposed by Eversource in Eagle Square. 03:21:45.350 --> 03:21:47.990 align:middle line:84% We continue to ask that this project be taken out 03:21:47.990 --> 03:21:50.960 align:middle line:84% of our community, as we are already inundated 03:21:50.960 --> 03:21:54.530 align:middle line:84% with several issues that concern us in terms of impact 03:21:54.530 --> 03:21:57.660 align:middle line:90% in this area's neighbors. 03:21:57.660 --> 03:22:16.510 align:middle line:90% [SPEAKING SPANISH] 03:22:16.510 --> 03:22:33.960 align:middle line:90% 03:22:33.960 --> 03:22:36.540 align:middle line:84% We believe that our neighborhood should be kept together 03:22:36.540 --> 03:22:40.620 align:middle line:84% in this process, as we share cultures, traditions, 03:22:40.620 --> 03:22:44.880 align:middle line:84% public spaces, access to green space like parks, 03:22:44.880 --> 03:22:47.260 align:middle line:84% including churches in our schools. 03:22:47.260 --> 03:22:49.530 align:middle line:84% We need to keep our community together 03:22:49.530 --> 03:22:51.930 align:middle line:84% for the many reasons I've listed here today. 03:22:51.930 --> 03:22:53.790 align:middle line:84% Again, I want to thank our Congresswoman 03:22:53.790 --> 03:22:58.780 align:middle line:84% and this Committee for the consideration. 03:22:58.780 --> 03:23:01.120 align:middle line:90% [SPEAKING SPANISH] 03:23:01.120 --> 03:23:28.250 align:middle line:90% 03:23:28.250 --> 03:23:31.130 align:middle line:84% Again, we want to thank the Committee for the opportunity 03:23:31.130 --> 03:23:34.490 align:middle line:84% to speak today and for the consideration of keeping us 03:23:34.490 --> 03:23:37.730 align:middle line:84% together as a community that is full of goals, 03:23:37.730 --> 03:23:41.370 align:middle line:84% struggles, and dreams to be realized, not just for us, 03:23:41.370 --> 03:23:43.250 align:middle line:90% but our future generations. 03:23:43.250 --> 03:23:46.190 align:middle line:84% When it comes to drawing these new political lines, 03:23:46.190 --> 03:23:50.900 align:middle line:84% we have to do everything we can to preserve our Eagle Hill 03:23:50.900 --> 03:23:51.490 align:middle line:90% neighborhood. 03:23:51.490 --> 03:23:53.615 align:middle line:84% Thank you for your attention today and all present. 03:23:53.615 --> 03:23:58.000 align:middle line:90% 03:23:58.000 --> 03:24:02.230 align:middle line:84% So we thank you both very much for your testimony. 03:24:02.230 --> 03:24:07.360 align:middle line:84% When you express-- so I do have a question for either witness. 03:24:07.360 --> 03:24:09.790 align:middle line:84% When you express the desire to keep East Boston together, 03:24:09.790 --> 03:24:12.010 align:middle line:84% are you referring to that in the context 03:24:12.010 --> 03:24:17.050 align:middle line:84% of the Congressional district or are you referring 03:24:17.050 --> 03:24:20.340 align:middle line:90% to it for Senate districts? 03:24:20.340 --> 03:24:22.410 align:middle line:84% Or actually, I guess, the rep district-- it does 03:24:22.410 --> 03:24:24.702 align:middle line:84% have to be split a little bit, because that East Boston 03:24:24.702 --> 03:24:26.380 align:middle line:90% is more than one district. 03:24:26.380 --> 03:24:30.660 align:middle line:84% So if you could comment on that, on which level 03:24:30.660 --> 03:24:32.100 align:middle line:90% you're speaking to-- 03:24:32.100 --> 03:24:34.920 align:middle line:84% if you'd like to translate that, Marisol, 03:24:34.920 --> 03:24:38.998 align:middle line:84% you can paraphrase to make it more succinct if you'd like. 03:24:38.998 --> 03:24:41.140 align:middle line:90% Sure. 03:24:41.140 --> 03:24:43.206 align:middle line:90% [SPEAKING SPANISH] 03:24:43.206 --> 03:25:14.864 align:middle line:90% 03:25:14.864 --> 03:25:17.850 align:middle line:84% [? Raina ?] says that she is referring 03:25:17.850 --> 03:25:22.170 align:middle line:84% to all districts in East Boston, but in particular 03:25:22.170 --> 03:25:26.070 align:middle line:84% how to preserve this particular neighborhood, that it would not 03:25:26.070 --> 03:25:29.880 align:middle line:84% be split as those lines are drawn. 03:25:29.880 --> 03:25:32.190 align:middle line:90% [SPEAKING SPANISH] 03:25:32.190 --> 03:25:33.910 align:middle line:90% 03:25:33.910 --> 03:25:36.090 align:middle line:84% And her preference is that all of East Boston 03:25:36.090 --> 03:25:38.992 align:middle line:84% would stay together in the district. 03:25:38.992 --> 03:25:40.950 align:middle line:84% So of course, we have three levels of district. 03:25:40.950 --> 03:25:43.620 align:middle line:84% Just to be clear, you mean for all three levels of districts-- 03:25:43.620 --> 03:25:45.660 align:middle line:90% House, Senate, and Congress? 03:25:45.660 --> 03:25:47.145 align:middle line:90% [SPEAKING SPANISH] 03:25:47.145 --> 03:26:05.170 align:middle line:90% 03:26:05.170 --> 03:26:06.786 align:middle line:90% OK. 03:26:06.786 --> 03:26:08.270 align:middle line:90% She says, all. 03:26:08.270 --> 03:26:10.140 align:middle line:90% Gotcha. 03:26:10.140 --> 03:26:11.920 align:middle line:90% [SPEAKING SPANISH] 03:26:11.920 --> 03:26:12.420 align:middle line:90% 03:26:12.420 --> 03:26:13.885 align:middle line:90% OK, thank you. 03:26:13.885 --> 03:26:15.510 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much for your testimony. 03:26:15.510 --> 03:26:17.593 align:middle line:84% Any other questions from members of the Committee? 03:26:17.593 --> 03:26:21.480 align:middle line:90% 03:26:21.480 --> 03:26:22.228 align:middle line:90% Great. 03:26:22.228 --> 03:26:23.770 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony. 03:26:23.770 --> 03:26:27.100 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Marisol, for translating. 03:26:27.100 --> 03:26:27.910 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:26:27.910 --> 03:26:29.680 align:middle line:90% Please tell them, thank you. 03:26:29.680 --> 03:26:30.430 align:middle line:90% Gracias. 03:26:30.430 --> 03:26:33.730 align:middle line:90% Gracias, [? Raina. ?] OK. 03:26:33.730 --> 03:26:34.720 align:middle line:90% Next. 03:26:34.720 --> 03:26:38.050 align:middle line:84% Who is the next person that you see present and available, 03:26:38.050 --> 03:26:39.310 align:middle line:90% Maeve? 03:26:39.310 --> 03:26:43.858 align:middle line:84% We have-- Rep Giannino just joined. 03:26:43.858 --> 03:26:46.670 align:middle line:90% Rep Giannino? 03:26:46.670 --> 03:26:48.260 align:middle line:90% Yes. 03:26:48.260 --> 03:26:50.920 align:middle line:84% OK, well, let's recognize Rep Giannino. 03:26:50.920 --> 03:27:12.310 align:middle line:90% 03:27:12.310 --> 03:27:16.570 align:middle line:84% Rep Giannino, you're muted, and-- 03:27:16.570 --> 03:27:17.380 align:middle line:90% there you go. 03:27:17.380 --> 03:27:18.880 align:middle line:90% Good morning. 03:27:18.880 --> 03:27:20.388 align:middle line:90% I didn't plan on testifying. 03:27:20.388 --> 03:27:21.430 align:middle line:90% I've been on since 10:00. 03:27:21.430 --> 03:27:24.193 align:middle line:84% I just want to thank you guys for hearing 03:27:24.193 --> 03:27:26.860 align:middle line:84% the constituents of the district and the concerns that are here, 03:27:26.860 --> 03:27:29.027 align:middle line:84% and I appreciate everything this Committee is doing. 03:27:29.027 --> 03:27:31.030 align:middle line:90% So thank you so much. 03:27:31.030 --> 03:27:31.540 align:middle line:90% OK. 03:27:31.540 --> 03:27:32.957 align:middle line:84% Well, thank you for being with us. 03:27:32.957 --> 03:27:35.677 align:middle line:84% Thank you for taking the time to listen, and appreciate it. 03:27:35.677 --> 03:27:38.600 align:middle line:90% 03:27:38.600 --> 03:27:43.160 align:middle line:84% I believe, next we have Yvonne Watson. 03:27:43.160 --> 03:27:43.670 align:middle line:90% OK. 03:27:43.670 --> 03:27:45.950 align:middle line:84% So Patrick Williams, if you're not here-- 03:27:45.950 --> 03:27:50.360 align:middle line:84% I mean, if you are here and wish to testify, hit us in the chat. 03:27:50.360 --> 03:27:52.820 align:middle line:84% But let's recognize Yvonne Watson now. 03:27:52.820 --> 03:28:00.830 align:middle line:90% 03:28:00.830 --> 03:28:02.460 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon. 03:28:02.460 --> 03:28:03.750 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon. 03:28:03.750 --> 03:28:05.240 align:middle line:90% We can hear you and see you. 03:28:05.240 --> 03:28:05.840 align:middle line:90% Great. 03:28:05.840 --> 03:28:09.620 align:middle line:84% My name is Yvonne Watson, and I'm a resident of Randolph. 03:28:09.620 --> 03:28:13.520 align:middle line:84% And I just want to thank you for allowing the residents 03:28:13.520 --> 03:28:16.580 align:middle line:84% this time for having our voices heard, 03:28:16.580 --> 03:28:18.500 align:middle line:84% and especially thank you for the work 03:28:18.500 --> 03:28:21.980 align:middle line:84% that you did 10 years ago in creating 03:28:21.980 --> 03:28:25.250 align:middle line:84% so many majority-minority districts that 03:28:25.250 --> 03:28:28.280 align:middle line:84% opened the possibility for my Congresswoman to successfully 03:28:28.280 --> 03:28:29.360 align:middle line:90% gain a seat at the table. 03:28:29.360 --> 03:28:33.610 align:middle line:90% 03:28:33.610 --> 03:28:37.510 align:middle line:84% First of all, I know who my representative in Congress 03:28:37.510 --> 03:28:41.890 align:middle line:84% is today, because Ms. Pressley has been present 03:28:41.890 --> 03:28:43.270 align:middle line:90% in my community. 03:28:43.270 --> 03:28:47.830 align:middle line:84% I know the work that she's doing for the district. 03:28:47.830 --> 03:28:51.850 align:middle line:84% The issues that are being reckoned 03:28:51.850 --> 03:28:54.250 align:middle line:84% with by my representative resonate 03:28:54.250 --> 03:29:00.288 align:middle line:84% with my concerns and the concerns of my community. 03:29:00.288 --> 03:29:02.080 align:middle line:84% And while I know that Ms. Pressley will not 03:29:02.080 --> 03:29:05.170 align:middle line:84% be in office forever, the example that she provides 03:29:05.170 --> 03:29:09.580 align:middle line:84% gives a roadmap for residents of congressional district 03:29:09.580 --> 03:29:12.850 align:middle line:84% 7 to elect like-minded officials, 03:29:12.850 --> 03:29:15.130 align:middle line:84% and the district would need to remain 03:29:15.130 --> 03:29:18.950 align:middle line:90% intact for that to happen. 03:29:18.950 --> 03:29:23.110 align:middle line:84% So in short, Randolph residents do not 03:29:23.110 --> 03:29:27.640 align:middle line:84% want to see a scenario where Randolph is no longer a part 03:29:27.640 --> 03:29:31.720 align:middle line:90% of congressional district 7. 03:29:31.720 --> 03:29:34.000 align:middle line:84% And I ask this committee to make every effort 03:29:34.000 --> 03:29:35.830 align:middle line:90% to keep the district intact. 03:29:35.830 --> 03:29:39.410 align:middle line:84% I know you've heard that all morning and into the afternoon 03:29:39.410 --> 03:29:39.910 align:middle line:90% now. 03:29:39.910 --> 03:29:42.610 align:middle line:90% 03:29:42.610 --> 03:29:45.340 align:middle line:84% But regarding the idea of creating 03:29:45.340 --> 03:29:49.870 align:middle line:84% another congressional majority district, by joining Randolph 03:29:49.870 --> 03:29:53.800 align:middle line:84% to other communities, to maintain 03:29:53.800 --> 03:29:57.250 align:middle line:84% a majority-minority district for Randolph 03:29:57.250 --> 03:30:00.220 align:middle line:90% sounds like a worthy solution. 03:30:00.220 --> 03:30:02.860 align:middle line:84% But my question is, how long would it 03:30:02.860 --> 03:30:06.400 align:middle line:84% take to achieve the type of representation 03:30:06.400 --> 03:30:11.730 align:middle line:84% in Congress who will take up the causes of the new district 03:30:11.730 --> 03:30:17.520 align:middle line:84% in the same manner that our congressional district 7 03:30:17.520 --> 03:30:21.960 align:middle line:90% community enjoys today? 03:30:21.960 --> 03:30:24.870 align:middle line:90% So just-- I'm sorry, go ahead. 03:30:24.870 --> 03:30:28.380 align:middle line:84% Very briefly, my asks are twofold. 03:30:28.380 --> 03:30:34.980 align:middle line:84% I ask that in this difficult task that you have before you, 03:30:34.980 --> 03:30:37.890 align:middle line:84% first, that you consider the request of the residents 03:30:37.890 --> 03:30:40.890 align:middle line:84% of Randolph to remain a part of District 7 03:30:40.890 --> 03:30:44.490 align:middle line:84% and that the district remains as intact as possible. 03:30:44.490 --> 03:30:47.640 align:middle line:84% And secondly, if Randolph must be 03:30:47.640 --> 03:30:51.990 align:middle line:84% moved to create a different district, 03:30:51.990 --> 03:30:57.060 align:middle line:84% that Randolph is not split among different communities. 03:30:57.060 --> 03:31:00.720 align:middle line:84% Randolph already has this issue of never 03:31:00.720 --> 03:31:03.000 align:middle line:84% being able to achieve a state representative 03:31:03.000 --> 03:31:05.310 align:middle line:84% from our community for so long, because 03:31:05.310 --> 03:31:09.240 align:middle line:84% of the fragmentation of Randolph on the state level 03:31:09.240 --> 03:31:11.130 align:middle line:84% amongst three different communities. 03:31:11.130 --> 03:31:13.950 align:middle line:84% And our town manager in town councilors 03:31:13.950 --> 03:31:17.160 align:middle line:84% have already spoke about that today. 03:31:17.160 --> 03:31:19.440 align:middle line:84% I would not want to see this happen 03:31:19.440 --> 03:31:22.510 align:middle line:84% in the congressional district as well. 03:31:22.510 --> 03:31:25.110 align:middle line:84% So with that, I just thank you for your time 03:31:25.110 --> 03:31:28.020 align:middle line:84% and your consideration of all of the comments and suggestions 03:31:28.020 --> 03:31:30.030 align:middle line:84% that were offered today regarding 03:31:30.030 --> 03:31:33.030 align:middle line:90% keeping District 7 intact. 03:31:33.030 --> 03:31:34.950 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:31:34.950 --> 03:31:36.640 align:middle line:90% Thank you for your testimony. 03:31:36.640 --> 03:31:38.670 align:middle line:84% I don't think I'm stepping beyond the box 03:31:38.670 --> 03:31:43.590 align:middle line:84% when I say nobody's trying to break off Randolph and create 03:31:43.590 --> 03:31:46.140 align:middle line:84% another majority-minority district, 'cause 03:31:46.140 --> 03:31:47.610 align:middle line:90% those numbers don't work. 03:31:47.610 --> 03:31:52.950 align:middle line:84% So Randolph, kind of, needs to stay part of District 7, 03:31:52.950 --> 03:31:54.550 align:middle line:90% so that's-- 03:31:54.550 --> 03:31:55.840 align:middle line:90% Wonderful to hear that. 03:31:55.840 --> 03:31:56.560 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:31:56.560 --> 03:31:58.900 align:middle line:84% I don't think I'm stepping too far beyond the box 03:31:58.900 --> 03:32:00.070 align:middle line:90% in just saying that. 03:32:00.070 --> 03:32:01.340 align:middle line:90% Thank you so much. 03:32:01.340 --> 03:32:03.112 align:middle line:90% I appreciate it. 03:32:03.112 --> 03:32:04.570 align:middle line:84% There is a conversation that's more 03:32:04.570 --> 03:32:07.828 align:middle line:84% complicated about the House and Senate districts, but you know, 03:32:07.828 --> 03:32:09.370 align:middle line:84% that's a conversation that's ongoing. 03:32:09.370 --> 03:32:11.950 align:middle line:84% But on the Congress thing, what you said. 03:32:11.950 --> 03:32:12.490 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:32:12.490 --> 03:32:14.568 align:middle line:90% 03:32:14.568 --> 03:32:16.110 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony. 03:32:16.110 --> 03:32:19.270 align:middle line:90% Any other questions, comments? 03:32:19.270 --> 03:32:20.170 align:middle line:90% OK. 03:32:20.170 --> 03:32:21.670 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Ma'am. 03:32:21.670 --> 03:32:22.790 align:middle line:90% Was Carla Fisher with you? 03:32:22.790 --> 03:32:25.270 align:middle line:90% Is Carla Fisher on the list? 03:32:25.270 --> 03:32:28.240 align:middle line:90% Yes, we were to speak together. 03:32:28.240 --> 03:32:30.470 align:middle line:84% I'm not sure if she's on the line. 03:32:30.470 --> 03:32:30.970 align:middle line:90% Oh, she is. 03:32:30.970 --> 03:32:31.470 align:middle line:90% Here we go. 03:32:31.470 --> 03:32:34.310 align:middle line:90% You got it, Carla. 03:32:34.310 --> 03:32:38.560 align:middle line:84% You can unmute and testify if you're ready. 03:32:38.560 --> 03:32:40.990 align:middle line:90% OK. 03:32:40.990 --> 03:32:43.090 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon. 03:32:43.090 --> 03:32:46.425 align:middle line:84% Yeah, I just want to basically echo what Yvonne said 03:32:46.425 --> 03:32:47.800 align:middle line:84% and everyone said about Randolph. 03:32:47.800 --> 03:32:51.040 align:middle line:84% I realized after listening to the testimony this morning 03:32:51.040 --> 03:32:55.400 align:middle line:84% that you guys have a really difficult task. 03:32:55.400 --> 03:32:58.180 align:middle line:84% So I appreciate the work that you guys were taking on, 03:32:58.180 --> 03:33:02.092 align:middle line:84% and I applaud you for taking it on. 03:33:02.092 --> 03:33:03.550 align:middle line:84% But I'm a new resident of Randolph. 03:33:03.550 --> 03:33:07.060 align:middle line:84% I bought a home here last year, and it 03:33:07.060 --> 03:33:10.810 align:middle line:84% has been quite a journey in the past year with all 03:33:10.810 --> 03:33:12.430 align:middle line:84% of the difficulties and all the things 03:33:12.430 --> 03:33:15.190 align:middle line:84% that the country itself is going through. 03:33:15.190 --> 03:33:18.370 align:middle line:84% But like many other people, I am so 03:33:18.370 --> 03:33:21.400 align:middle line:84% happy that we are represented in District 7 03:33:21.400 --> 03:33:22.870 align:middle line:84% by Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley. 03:33:22.870 --> 03:33:26.050 align:middle line:84% She has done an amazing job-- and to have our needs 03:33:26.050 --> 03:33:31.238 align:middle line:84% really finally be welcomed, and someone actually taking 03:33:31.238 --> 03:33:33.280 align:middle line:84% heed to that and trying to really work for what's 03:33:33.280 --> 03:33:35.448 align:middle line:90% best in our community. 03:33:35.448 --> 03:33:37.240 align:middle line:84% One of the reasons that I moved to Randolph 03:33:37.240 --> 03:33:39.600 align:middle line:84% is because it is the most diverse town 03:33:39.600 --> 03:33:42.940 align:middle line:84% in the Commonwealth, and that makes a difference when you're 03:33:42.940 --> 03:33:44.740 align:middle line:84% asking people to get out and vote, 03:33:44.740 --> 03:33:46.940 align:middle line:84% and trying to make sure their voice is heard. 03:33:46.940 --> 03:33:50.440 align:middle line:84% I do a lot of work with my alumni chapter 03:33:50.440 --> 03:33:53.620 align:middle line:84% of my sorority, which is one of the largest 03:33:53.620 --> 03:33:56.380 align:middle line:84% historically Black sororities in the country. 03:33:56.380 --> 03:34:00.975 align:middle line:84% And I'm always encouraging people to get out and vote. 03:34:00.975 --> 03:34:02.350 align:middle line:84% And the thing is, a lot of people 03:34:02.350 --> 03:34:04.660 align:middle line:84% say that they don't want to vote, 03:34:04.660 --> 03:34:06.647 align:middle line:84% because their voice is not heard. 03:34:06.647 --> 03:34:08.230 align:middle line:84% And for the first time in a long time, 03:34:08.230 --> 03:34:09.910 align:middle line:84% our voice is actually being heard. 03:34:09.910 --> 03:34:13.000 align:middle line:84% We were able to elect Congresswoman Pressley 03:34:13.000 --> 03:34:15.410 align:middle line:90% to represent our district. 03:34:15.410 --> 03:34:17.800 align:middle line:84% So I am-- like many people, we don't 03:34:17.800 --> 03:34:19.420 align:middle line:90% want to leave the district. 03:34:19.420 --> 03:34:21.760 align:middle line:84% We want to remain a part of District 7 03:34:21.760 --> 03:34:24.585 align:middle line:84% so that our boys can continue to be heard. 03:34:24.585 --> 03:34:25.960 align:middle line:84% I was encouraged by what you just 03:34:25.960 --> 03:34:28.120 align:middle line:84% said, that Randolph probably will 03:34:28.120 --> 03:34:29.830 align:middle line:84% remain a part of the 7th district, which 03:34:29.830 --> 03:34:31.250 align:middle line:90% is great to hear. 03:34:31.250 --> 03:34:33.730 align:middle line:84% But I just wanted to just put in my two 03:34:33.730 --> 03:34:36.340 align:middle line:84% cents as a resident of Randolph that we 03:34:36.340 --> 03:34:38.620 align:middle line:90% appreciate the representation. 03:34:38.620 --> 03:34:40.540 align:middle line:84% And just as you can consider, just even 03:34:40.540 --> 03:34:43.960 align:middle line:84% changing all the other towns and the people that are speaking 03:34:43.960 --> 03:34:47.390 align:middle line:90% from Chelsea and Somerville-- 03:34:47.390 --> 03:34:50.920 align:middle line:84% our main goal is to make sure that we continue 03:34:50.920 --> 03:34:52.460 align:middle line:90% to have our voice heard. 03:34:52.460 --> 03:34:54.490 align:middle line:84% We are in a majority-minority minority district 03:34:54.490 --> 03:34:57.620 align:middle line:84% so that our vote and our voice is not diluted. 03:34:57.620 --> 03:35:00.400 align:middle line:84% So that's basically all I wanted to say. 03:35:00.400 --> 03:35:02.110 align:middle line:84% I just wanted to echo that and just ask 03:35:02.110 --> 03:35:08.270 align:middle line:84% that we continue to have accurate representation. 03:35:08.270 --> 03:35:11.180 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony, Ma'am. 03:35:11.180 --> 03:35:13.962 align:middle line:84% Are there questions from members of the Committee? 03:35:13.962 --> 03:35:18.030 align:middle line:90% 03:35:18.030 --> 03:35:18.840 align:middle line:90% All right. 03:35:18.840 --> 03:35:20.280 align:middle line:84% Thank you very-- again, thank you 03:35:20.280 --> 03:35:22.960 align:middle line:84% for your patience and sharing your thoughts with us. 03:35:22.960 --> 03:35:23.460 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:35:23.460 --> 03:35:23.960 align:middle line:90% All right. 03:35:23.960 --> 03:35:25.180 align:middle line:90% Thank you for having me. 03:35:25.180 --> 03:35:27.600 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:35:27.600 --> 03:35:28.930 align:middle line:90% Who's next, Maeve? 03:35:28.930 --> 03:35:30.870 align:middle line:90% We have Heloisa Galvao. 03:35:30.870 --> 03:35:34.530 align:middle line:90% 03:35:34.530 --> 03:35:35.030 align:middle line:90% OK. 03:35:35.030 --> 03:35:39.020 align:middle line:84% Great, so Patricia Desmond, I don't see you-- 03:35:39.020 --> 03:35:41.855 align:middle line:84% we don't see you, but holler if we missed you. 03:35:41.855 --> 03:35:43.730 align:middle line:84% So we're going to go to Heloisa Maria Galvao. 03:35:43.730 --> 03:35:54.480 align:middle line:90% 03:35:54.480 --> 03:35:57.380 align:middle line:84% You're on mute, Heloisa, and we cannot see you yet. 03:35:57.380 --> 03:36:08.910 align:middle line:90% 03:36:08.910 --> 03:36:13.030 align:middle line:90% Let's ask you to mute. 03:36:13.030 --> 03:36:14.290 align:middle line:90% Am I on mute? 03:36:14.290 --> 03:36:15.470 align:middle line:90% Can you hear me? 03:36:15.470 --> 03:36:16.457 align:middle line:90% Now we can hear you. 03:36:16.457 --> 03:36:17.290 align:middle line:90% Now we can hear you. 03:36:17.290 --> 03:36:17.860 align:middle line:90% OK. 03:36:17.860 --> 03:36:20.410 align:middle line:90% I don't know why-- 03:36:20.410 --> 03:36:22.930 align:middle line:90% it seems that my camera is off. 03:36:22.930 --> 03:36:23.790 align:middle line:90% That's OK. 03:36:23.790 --> 03:36:24.970 align:middle line:90% OK, now it's on. 03:36:24.970 --> 03:36:25.540 align:middle line:90% We got you. 03:36:25.540 --> 03:36:27.190 align:middle line:84% We can hear you, and we can see you. 03:36:27.190 --> 03:36:27.910 align:middle line:90% Yeah. 03:36:27.910 --> 03:36:29.620 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:36:29.620 --> 03:36:36.430 align:middle line:84% So first of all, thank you, Chair Senator William 03:36:36.430 --> 03:36:39.640 align:middle line:84% Brownsberger and Representative Mike Moran 03:36:39.640 --> 03:36:41.620 align:middle line:84% and members of this Special Joint 03:36:41.620 --> 03:36:44.200 align:middle line:90% Committee on Redistricting. 03:36:44.200 --> 03:36:46.570 align:middle line:90% My name is Heloisa Maria Galvao. 03:36:46.570 --> 03:36:49.000 align:middle line:84% I am a co-founder and executive director 03:36:49.000 --> 03:36:50.800 align:middle line:90% of the Brazilian Women's Group. 03:36:50.800 --> 03:36:54.190 align:middle line:84% The Brazilian Women's Group is a 26-year-old community 03:36:54.190 --> 03:36:58.090 align:middle line:84% organization that over the years has established itself 03:36:58.090 --> 03:37:02.320 align:middle line:84% as a vital center for educating residents about their rights 03:37:02.320 --> 03:37:07.090 align:middle line:84% in a new country while providing numerous programs to facilitate 03:37:07.090 --> 03:37:08.710 align:middle line:90% that transition. 03:37:08.710 --> 03:37:11.810 align:middle line:84% The Brazilian Women's Group is located in Brighton. 03:37:11.810 --> 03:37:14.890 align:middle line:84% Our membership is statewide and comprised 03:37:14.890 --> 03:37:20.240 align:middle line:84% of more than 1,000 women and men from all walks of life. 03:37:20.240 --> 03:37:24.550 align:middle line:84% The Brazilian Women's Group is a member of the Drawing Democracy 03:37:24.550 --> 03:37:25.750 align:middle line:90% Coalition. 03:37:25.750 --> 03:37:30.400 align:middle line:84% I myself have been a resident of Massachusetts for 32 years 03:37:30.400 --> 03:37:34.520 align:middle line:84% and have lived in Jamaica Plain for the last 22 years. 03:37:34.520 --> 03:37:38.230 align:middle line:84% I'm here to testify on behalf of the Brazilian Women's Group 03:37:38.230 --> 03:37:41.170 align:middle line:84% about the importance of establishing boundaries that 03:37:41.170 --> 03:37:44.950 align:middle line:84% will include diversity and truly represent 03:37:44.950 --> 03:37:48.880 align:middle line:84% immigrant populations, including Brazilians. 03:37:48.880 --> 03:37:52.030 align:middle line:84% Redistricting is of such an important issue for us, 03:37:52.030 --> 03:37:54.970 align:middle line:84% and District 7 especially is home 03:37:54.970 --> 03:37:59.650 align:middle line:84% to some of the largest Brazilian communities of Massachusetts. 03:37:59.650 --> 03:38:01.480 align:middle line:84% For decades, the Brazilian Women's Group 03:38:01.480 --> 03:38:04.300 align:middle line:84% has empowered Brazilians to become citizens-- 03:38:04.300 --> 03:38:06.520 align:middle line:84% Brazilians are the second largest group 03:38:06.520 --> 03:38:09.010 align:middle line:90% in naturalization ceremonies-- 03:38:09.010 --> 03:38:12.550 align:middle line:84% and vote, to answer the US Census, 03:38:12.550 --> 03:38:15.160 align:middle line:84% to get involved in community affairs, no matter 03:38:15.160 --> 03:38:17.330 align:middle line:90% their status. 03:38:17.330 --> 03:38:20.500 align:middle line:84% It took us more than 20 years to elect Brazilians 03:38:20.500 --> 03:38:24.760 align:middle line:84% to public office, and we are proud to say that currently, we 03:38:24.760 --> 03:38:28.840 align:middle line:84% are represented by six elected Brazilians. 03:38:28.840 --> 03:38:32.350 align:middle line:84% It is important that when considering redrawing community 03:38:32.350 --> 03:38:34.900 align:middle line:84% boundaries, immigrants be counted. 03:38:34.900 --> 03:38:37.150 align:middle line:84% Brazilians are hard-working people. 03:38:37.150 --> 03:38:40.990 align:middle line:84% We are domestic workers, single moms, students, 03:38:40.990 --> 03:38:45.800 align:middle line:84% construction workers, doctors, nurses, social workers, 03:38:45.800 --> 03:38:48.400 align:middle line:84% psychologists, and psychiatrists. 03:38:48.400 --> 03:38:51.760 align:middle line:84% We are homeowners, and we are business owners. 03:38:51.760 --> 03:38:54.620 align:middle line:84% For instance, just to cite one example, 03:38:54.620 --> 03:38:58.960 align:middle line:84% there are more than 30 Brazilian businesses in Somerville. 03:38:58.960 --> 03:39:02.560 align:middle line:84% Yet we, as many of the immigrants and other minority 03:39:02.560 --> 03:39:06.130 align:middle line:84% groups, have been marginalized for years, as 03:39:06.130 --> 03:39:08.260 align:middle line:84% during the pandemic, although we were 03:39:08.260 --> 03:39:13.390 align:middle line:84% in the forefront of battling the Coronavirus. 03:39:13.390 --> 03:39:16.900 align:middle line:84% We contribute economically, culturally, and educationally 03:39:16.900 --> 03:39:18.700 align:middle line:90% to the cities and places. 03:39:18.700 --> 03:39:22.440 align:middle line:84% If you walk down Harvard Street [INAUDIBLE],, 03:39:22.440 --> 03:39:26.080 align:middle line:84% you may want to taste our famous pao de queijo, cheese 03:39:26.080 --> 03:39:30.400 align:middle line:84% bread at the Brazilian bakery, a gathering place for families 03:39:30.400 --> 03:39:32.830 align:middle line:84% in the evening, and a breakfast site 03:39:32.830 --> 03:39:35.260 align:middle line:90% in the early hours of the day. 03:39:35.260 --> 03:39:37.720 align:middle line:84% Even in Somerville, [INAUDIBLE] service 03:39:37.720 --> 03:39:41.360 align:middle line:84% in Portuguese [INAUDIBLE] St. Anthony Church Properzi Way, 03:39:41.360 --> 03:39:45.850 align:middle line:84% or at the Brazilian Presbyterian Church on [INAUDIBLE] Street. 03:39:45.850 --> 03:39:48.670 align:middle line:84% You may shop at the Brazilian supermarket. 03:39:48.670 --> 03:39:52.300 align:middle line:84% The list can go on and on and on. 03:39:52.300 --> 03:39:54.460 align:middle line:84% Redistricting should include everyone 03:39:54.460 --> 03:39:56.650 align:middle line:84% who lives within district boundaries. 03:39:56.650 --> 03:39:59.540 align:middle line:84% What you [INAUDIBLE] this Special Joint Committee 03:39:59.540 --> 03:40:03.430 align:middle line:84% to count immigrants, by considering redistricting 03:40:03.430 --> 03:40:07.360 align:middle line:84% and to respect the diversity of our communities 03:40:07.360 --> 03:40:10.960 align:middle line:84% by including different groups of immigrants, Blacks, 03:40:10.960 --> 03:40:12.790 align:middle line:90% and other residents. 03:40:12.790 --> 03:40:15.550 align:middle line:84% Thank you for your commitment to engage 03:40:15.550 --> 03:40:18.700 align:middle line:84% with grassroots organizations like the Brazilian Women's 03:40:18.700 --> 03:40:21.100 align:middle line:90% Group throughout this process. 03:40:21.100 --> 03:40:24.790 align:middle line:84% We are here to working with you to guarantee that Brazilians 03:40:24.790 --> 03:40:27.820 align:middle line:84% are truly represented in District 7 03:40:27.820 --> 03:40:31.340 align:middle line:84% and throughout the redistricting process. 03:40:31.340 --> 03:40:31.840 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:40:31.840 --> 03:40:37.510 align:middle line:90% 03:40:37.510 --> 03:40:39.970 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for speaking up 03:40:39.970 --> 03:40:42.850 align:middle line:84% for the Brazilian population, bringing that perspective 03:40:42.850 --> 03:40:44.350 align:middle line:90% to the table here. 03:40:44.350 --> 03:40:45.160 align:middle line:90% Chairman Moran? 03:40:45.160 --> 03:40:48.690 align:middle line:90% 03:40:48.690 --> 03:40:49.830 align:middle line:90% Unmute, Chair. 03:40:49.830 --> 03:40:51.030 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:40:51.030 --> 03:40:53.670 align:middle line:84% And you know, the Brazilian Workers' Center 03:40:53.670 --> 03:40:57.960 align:middle line:84% is in both my district and Senator Brownsberger's 03:40:57.960 --> 03:40:58.470 align:middle line:90% district. 03:40:58.470 --> 03:41:01.470 align:middle line:84% And Natalicia Tracy and the work that they 03:41:01.470 --> 03:41:07.360 align:middle line:84% do down there for that specific ethnic group is really amazing. 03:41:07.360 --> 03:41:09.660 align:middle line:84% I do a lot of with them throughout the year, 03:41:09.660 --> 03:41:12.420 align:middle line:84% whether it be toy drives or, during the COVID issues, 03:41:12.420 --> 03:41:16.920 align:middle line:84% with doing lunches, and food pantries. 03:41:16.920 --> 03:41:18.540 align:middle line:84% And they just do a wonderful job, 03:41:18.540 --> 03:41:21.060 align:middle line:84% and thank you for being associated with that group 03:41:21.060 --> 03:41:23.130 align:middle line:90% and all the work you do. 03:41:23.130 --> 03:41:24.420 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:41:24.420 --> 03:41:26.743 align:middle line:84% We do work a lot together, with Natalicia 03:41:26.743 --> 03:41:28.410 align:middle line:84% and the Brazilian Workers' Centere, yes. 03:41:28.410 --> 03:41:33.560 align:middle line:90% 03:41:33.560 --> 03:41:38.490 align:middle line:84% Other questions, comments from members of the Committee? 03:41:38.490 --> 03:41:40.330 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for all you do. 03:41:40.330 --> 03:41:42.450 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony here today. 03:41:42.450 --> 03:41:42.950 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:41:42.950 --> 03:41:45.660 align:middle line:90% 03:41:45.660 --> 03:41:48.950 align:middle line:90% Who's next, Maeve? 03:41:48.950 --> 03:41:51.230 align:middle line:90% We have Michael Aponte. 03:41:51.230 --> 03:41:54.170 align:middle line:90% Michael Aponte, next. 03:41:54.170 --> 03:41:55.490 align:middle line:90% Welcome, Michael. 03:41:55.490 --> 03:41:57.440 align:middle line:84% You are on mute still at the moment. 03:41:57.440 --> 03:42:04.110 align:middle line:90% 03:42:04.110 --> 03:42:05.340 align:middle line:90% Hello. 03:42:05.340 --> 03:42:08.490 align:middle line:90% We can hear you. 03:42:08.490 --> 03:42:09.670 align:middle line:90% Welcome. 03:42:09.670 --> 03:42:10.170 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:42:10.170 --> 03:42:13.120 align:middle line:90% 03:42:13.120 --> 03:42:16.710 align:middle line:84% So thank you to Chairs Moran and Brownsberger 03:42:16.710 --> 03:42:19.890 align:middle line:84% and to the members of the Committee for this opportunity 03:42:19.890 --> 03:42:24.220 align:middle line:84% to speak today as a resident of the 27th Middlesex district. 03:42:24.220 --> 03:42:28.170 align:middle line:84% Also it's a unique honor to speak following comments 03:42:28.170 --> 03:42:32.580 align:middle line:84% from Congresswoman Pressley and Representative Uyterhoeven, who 03:42:32.580 --> 03:42:35.490 align:middle line:84% are inspiring visionaries who have directly 03:42:35.490 --> 03:42:38.190 align:middle line:84% helped ordinary people like myself understand 03:42:38.190 --> 03:42:41.400 align:middle line:84% the importance of regular civic engagement 03:42:41.400 --> 03:42:45.280 align:middle line:84% and the possibilities that it can unlock for all of us. 03:42:45.280 --> 03:42:46.710 align:middle line:90% My name is Michael Aponte. 03:42:46.710 --> 03:42:50.640 align:middle line:84% I come from a background of lifelong renters. 03:42:50.640 --> 03:42:53.910 align:middle line:84% I'm also a first-generation college graduate 03:42:53.910 --> 03:42:57.840 align:middle line:84% with faint but persevering hope of one day achieving 03:42:57.840 --> 03:43:01.230 align:middle line:84% homeownership and finally breaking the cycle of poverty 03:43:01.230 --> 03:43:02.910 align:middle line:90% in my family. 03:43:02.910 --> 03:43:05.580 align:middle line:84% I've been a proud resident of the city of Somerville 03:43:05.580 --> 03:43:10.410 align:middle line:84% for 10 years, from Ward 4 in the east to Ward 6 in the west. 03:43:10.410 --> 03:43:13.680 align:middle line:84% Our neighborhoods benefit from diverse communities 03:43:13.680 --> 03:43:17.490 align:middle line:84% of all economic and cultural backgrounds, including 03:43:17.490 --> 03:43:20.100 align:middle line:84% our inspiring immigrant communities. 03:43:20.100 --> 03:43:21.810 align:middle line:84% I've had the honor of volunteering 03:43:21.810 --> 03:43:24.930 align:middle line:84% with various progressive grassroots, 03:43:24.930 --> 03:43:28.470 align:middle line:84% organizing efforts, fighting for equitable solutions 03:43:28.470 --> 03:43:32.040 align:middle line:84% to the common racial justice, economic justice, 03:43:32.040 --> 03:43:34.740 align:middle line:84% and especially housing justice issues 03:43:34.740 --> 03:43:37.440 align:middle line:84% that we're facing in Somerville right now as a community. 03:43:37.440 --> 03:43:40.230 align:middle line:84% And that's why I'm testifying to ask the Committee to do 03:43:40.230 --> 03:43:43.170 align:middle line:84% everything in its power to ensure that Somerville 03:43:43.170 --> 03:43:46.560 align:middle line:84% maintains the cohesive districts that are representative 03:43:46.560 --> 03:43:50.430 align:middle line:84% of our communities of interest, and to thank you 03:43:50.430 --> 03:43:53.310 align:middle line:84% for taking our concerns and your responsibilities with integrity 03:43:53.310 --> 03:43:55.770 align:middle line:90% and sincerity. 03:43:55.770 --> 03:43:58.140 align:middle line:84% Keeping Somerville together is especially 03:43:58.140 --> 03:44:01.000 align:middle line:84% relevant for economic and housing justice. 03:44:01.000 --> 03:44:03.570 align:middle line:84% You can knock on thousands of doors across the city. 03:44:03.570 --> 03:44:05.970 align:middle line:84% If you ask anyone what policy related issues are 03:44:05.970 --> 03:44:08.670 align:middle line:84% at the forefront in their lives, the common theme 03:44:08.670 --> 03:44:12.060 align:middle line:84% is how increasing housing prices from development 03:44:12.060 --> 03:44:15.480 align:middle line:84% and gentrification are forcing working families who set down 03:44:15.480 --> 03:44:17.370 align:middle line:84% firm roots in the community to face 03:44:17.370 --> 03:44:20.370 align:middle line:84% a really hard choice of leaving against their will 03:44:20.370 --> 03:44:24.180 align:middle line:84% or struggling to provide basic necessities for their family. 03:44:24.180 --> 03:44:26.430 align:middle line:84% There are many clearly defined communities of interest 03:44:26.430 --> 03:44:29.250 align:middle line:84% throughout the 27th Middlesex that could speak to this. 03:44:29.250 --> 03:44:33.870 align:middle line:84% Consider, for example-- we have heard from several testimonies. 03:44:33.870 --> 03:44:37.170 align:middle line:84% The 27th Middlesex includes many of the neighborhoods that 03:44:37.170 --> 03:44:40.190 align:middle line:84% will benefit and also face new challenges 03:44:40.190 --> 03:44:43.560 align:middle line:84% through the impact of the T's Green Line extension. 03:44:43.560 --> 03:44:46.740 align:middle line:84% Our community gets its strength from the social roots and bonds 03:44:46.740 --> 03:44:50.760 align:middle line:84% that we cultivate over years and generations as families settle 03:44:50.760 --> 03:44:52.578 align:middle line:84% and neighborhoods develop organically. 03:44:52.578 --> 03:44:54.120 align:middle line:84% And so now, it's really clear that we 03:44:54.120 --> 03:44:56.550 align:middle line:84% need to maintain our solid and cohesive representation 03:44:56.550 --> 03:44:58.443 align:middle line:84% in government to give a voice especially 03:44:58.443 --> 03:45:00.360 align:middle line:84% to the low-income and working-clacss residents 03:45:00.360 --> 03:45:01.440 align:middle line:90% of our communities. 03:45:01.440 --> 03:45:05.770 align:middle line:84% We're all facing this particular displacement crisis together. 03:45:05.770 --> 03:45:08.230 align:middle line:84% So by keeping my community of Somerville together, 03:45:08.230 --> 03:45:10.740 align:middle line:84% you will be prioritizing equity and justice 03:45:10.740 --> 03:45:12.510 align:middle line:90% in the redistricting process. 03:45:12.510 --> 03:45:14.130 align:middle line:84% I'm incredibly proud to currently 03:45:14.130 --> 03:45:15.660 align:middle line:84% be represented by elected officials 03:45:15.660 --> 03:45:19.800 align:middle line:84% of diverse backgrounds as a resident of the 27th Middlesex, 03:45:19.800 --> 03:45:22.290 align:middle line:84% and I look forward to having that opportunity preserved 03:45:22.290 --> 03:45:25.110 align:middle line:84% for the future by your careful consideration. 03:45:25.110 --> 03:45:28.440 align:middle line:84% Also by opening up this process to the public in such 03:45:28.440 --> 03:45:30.810 align:middle line:84% an inspiringly transparent manner, 03:45:30.810 --> 03:45:33.480 align:middle line:84% this committee is doing a truly fantastic job 03:45:33.480 --> 03:45:35.490 align:middle line:84% of restoring the faith of ordinary people 03:45:35.490 --> 03:45:38.263 align:middle line:84% and the integrity of the processes of our government. 03:45:38.263 --> 03:45:40.680 align:middle line:84% So thank you again to the Chairs and the honorable members 03:45:40.680 --> 03:45:43.200 align:middle line:84% of the Committee for your time, and for aspiring 03:45:43.200 --> 03:45:48.630 align:middle line:84% to accomplish the very highest level of quality in your work. 03:45:48.630 --> 03:45:50.550 align:middle line:84% We thank you for those kind words, 03:45:50.550 --> 03:45:54.930 align:middle line:84% and we aspire to continue to earn them. 03:45:54.930 --> 03:46:00.330 align:middle line:84% And we thank you for your testimony regarding Somerville. 03:46:00.330 --> 03:46:01.860 align:middle line:84% Are there any questions or comments 03:46:01.860 --> 03:46:03.147 align:middle line:90% from members of the Committee? 03:46:03.147 --> 03:46:06.280 align:middle line:90% 03:46:06.280 --> 03:46:07.900 align:middle line:84% Thank you again for the kind words-- 03:46:07.900 --> 03:46:12.440 align:middle line:84% appreciate it-- and for the testimony. 03:46:12.440 --> 03:46:13.660 align:middle line:90% Is Rami Bridge on the line? 03:46:13.660 --> 03:46:17.870 align:middle line:90% 03:46:17.870 --> 03:46:18.770 align:middle line:90% I believe so. 03:46:18.770 --> 03:46:33.380 align:middle line:90% 03:46:33.380 --> 03:46:35.110 align:middle line:90% Hi, can you hear me? 03:46:35.110 --> 03:46:37.010 align:middle line:90% We can. 03:46:37.010 --> 03:46:37.890 align:middle line:90% Hi. 03:46:37.890 --> 03:46:39.258 align:middle line:90% My name is Rami Bridge. 03:46:39.258 --> 03:46:40.800 align:middle line:84% I live in Somerville, and I've taught 03:46:40.800 --> 03:46:42.660 align:middle line:84% in Somerville for 10 years, and I'm 03:46:42.660 --> 03:46:44.833 align:middle line:84% the President of the Somerville Educators' Union. 03:46:44.833 --> 03:46:47.250 align:middle line:84% First off, I want to thank the co-chairs and other members 03:46:47.250 --> 03:46:48.393 align:middle line:90% of the Committee. 03:46:48.393 --> 03:46:50.310 align:middle line:84% I don't need to tell you how vital your job is 03:46:50.310 --> 03:46:52.830 align:middle line:84% to our democracy and how complicated your task is. 03:46:52.830 --> 03:46:55.080 align:middle line:84% I'd also want to thank the other members of the public 03:46:55.080 --> 03:46:56.340 align:middle line:90% for their testimonies today. 03:46:56.340 --> 03:46:58.870 align:middle line:84% I have learned a lot this morning. 03:46:58.870 --> 03:47:01.230 align:middle line:84% I am here to testify in support of ensuring Somerville 03:47:01.230 --> 03:47:04.140 align:middle line:84% continues to get appropriate representation in the upcoming 03:47:04.140 --> 03:47:05.580 align:middle line:90% redistricting process. 03:47:05.580 --> 03:47:07.410 align:middle line:90% Somerville is a unique place. 03:47:07.410 --> 03:47:08.890 align:middle line:90% It is geographically unique. 03:47:08.890 --> 03:47:11.430 align:middle line:84% It is one of the densest cities in America. 03:47:11.430 --> 03:47:15.060 align:middle line:84% The T stops here on three different lines. 03:47:15.060 --> 03:47:17.910 align:middle line:84% We've got a commuter rail that runs through but doesn't stop, 03:47:17.910 --> 03:47:19.800 align:middle line:84% and the McGrath Highway and 93 bring 03:47:19.800 --> 03:47:23.370 align:middle line:84% us a lot of pass-through traffic and pollution. 03:47:23.370 --> 03:47:24.850 align:middle line:90% It is culturally unique. 03:47:24.850 --> 03:47:27.660 align:middle line:84% It has the Museum of Bad Art, the self-proclaimed smallest 03:47:27.660 --> 03:47:30.330 align:middle line:84% museum in the world, an annual activist marching 03:47:30.330 --> 03:47:32.430 align:middle line:84% band festival, and an annual festival 03:47:32.430 --> 03:47:34.500 align:middle line:90% glorifying marshmallow fluff. 03:47:34.500 --> 03:47:36.390 align:middle line:84% And the Somerville schools are unique. 03:47:36.390 --> 03:47:39.030 align:middle line:84% Frankly, it is the reason I chose to live and work here. 03:47:39.030 --> 03:47:40.890 align:middle line:84% It is rare to be teaching in an urban school 03:47:40.890 --> 03:47:42.390 align:middle line:84% setting that isn't an overwhelmingly 03:47:42.390 --> 03:47:44.160 align:middle line:90% large bureaucracy. 03:47:44.160 --> 03:47:46.622 align:middle line:84% We have the advantages of a small and nimble district 03:47:46.622 --> 03:47:48.330 align:middle line:84% while also working with a diverse student 03:47:48.330 --> 03:47:50.190 align:middle line:84% population, where almost 1/2 speak 03:47:50.190 --> 03:47:52.200 align:middle line:84% a different first language from English. 03:47:52.200 --> 03:47:53.760 align:middle line:84% Our students speak many languages, 03:47:53.760 --> 03:47:55.860 align:middle line:84% and their families come from many places. 03:47:55.860 --> 03:47:58.260 align:middle line:84% That diversity in our schools is the strength 03:47:58.260 --> 03:48:00.130 align:middle line:90% of our school community. 03:48:00.130 --> 03:48:02.010 align:middle line:84% I also assume I don't need to tell you 03:48:02.010 --> 03:48:04.495 align:middle line:84% about how unique Somerville is politically. 03:48:04.495 --> 03:48:05.870 align:middle line:84% For all these reasons and more, I 03:48:05.870 --> 03:48:08.245 align:middle line:84% believe Somerville is in need of continued representation 03:48:08.245 --> 03:48:09.870 align:middle line:84% that will understand all of the nuance 03:48:09.870 --> 03:48:11.340 align:middle line:90% and complexity of Somerville. 03:48:11.340 --> 03:48:13.350 align:middle line:84% That means ensuring that the municipality is not 03:48:13.350 --> 03:48:15.960 align:middle line:84% divided but has a dedicated representation. 03:48:15.960 --> 03:48:17.640 align:middle line:84% Because Somerville and Massachusetts 03:48:17.640 --> 03:48:19.788 align:middle line:84% are facing many upcoming challenges, 03:48:19.788 --> 03:48:22.080 align:middle line:84% whether it is the Green Line extension that will likely 03:48:22.080 --> 03:48:24.000 align:middle line:84% exacerbate an already dire housing 03:48:24.000 --> 03:48:27.570 align:middle line:84% affordability and displacement crisis, the existential crisis 03:48:27.570 --> 03:48:29.700 align:middle line:84% of climate change, or simply understanding 03:48:29.700 --> 03:48:32.280 align:middle line:84% the differences between the Kennedy and Argenziano school 03:48:32.280 --> 03:48:33.510 align:middle line:90% communities. 03:48:33.510 --> 03:48:36.450 align:middle line:84% Somerville would be inextricably harmed if it was divided 03:48:36.450 --> 03:48:39.450 align:middle line:84% and its representatives did not understand our community. 03:48:39.450 --> 03:48:42.060 align:middle line:84% This is a question of racial, social, immigrant, 03:48:42.060 --> 03:48:43.440 align:middle line:90% and economic justice. 03:48:43.440 --> 03:48:46.260 align:middle line:84% I urge you to keep the community in Somerville, my community, 03:48:46.260 --> 03:48:48.010 align:middle line:90% together as much as possible. 03:48:48.010 --> 03:48:50.530 align:middle line:90% Thank you so much for your time. 03:48:50.530 --> 03:48:52.260 align:middle line:84% Thank you for your clear testimony. 03:48:52.260 --> 03:48:53.780 align:middle line:90% Appreciate it. 03:48:53.780 --> 03:48:57.300 align:middle line:90% Questions, comments? 03:48:57.300 --> 03:49:00.450 align:middle line:90% OK, thank you, Sir. 03:49:00.450 --> 03:49:03.350 align:middle line:84% Going to [? Derek ?] Rice, if [? Derek's ?] here. 03:49:03.350 --> 03:49:06.600 align:middle line:84% I see we have Ronald Lammy, who was a little further up 03:49:06.600 --> 03:49:07.230 align:middle line:90% on the list. 03:49:07.230 --> 03:49:09.840 align:middle line:84% So maybe we missed him or maybe he was away, 03:49:09.840 --> 03:49:11.910 align:middle line:90% but I can promote him now. 03:49:11.910 --> 03:49:12.500 align:middle line:90% Oh, great. 03:49:12.500 --> 03:49:22.300 align:middle line:90% 03:49:22.300 --> 03:49:26.080 align:middle line:84% Ronald, you've been promoted, and you can unmute. 03:49:26.080 --> 03:49:27.520 align:middle line:90% There you go. 03:49:27.520 --> 03:49:29.420 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 03:49:29.420 --> 03:49:31.090 align:middle line:90% My name is Ronald Lammy. 03:49:31.090 --> 03:49:36.115 align:middle line:84% I was invited by our esteemed Congresswoman, 03:49:36.115 --> 03:49:40.090 align:middle line:84% with whom I had a connection with several years 03:49:40.090 --> 03:49:43.740 align:middle line:90% in the cultural arena. 03:49:43.740 --> 03:49:50.250 align:middle line:84% My contribution today cannot be as specific to your theme, 03:49:50.250 --> 03:49:55.470 align:middle line:84% because this is not an area that I've been involved in. 03:49:55.470 --> 03:49:59.520 align:middle line:84% But I have a concern as a resident, someone 03:49:59.520 --> 03:50:04.140 align:middle line:84% who was brought to Massachusetts on a national search 03:50:04.140 --> 03:50:09.210 align:middle line:84% by Bank of Boston when they were dealing with redlining. 03:50:09.210 --> 03:50:12.810 align:middle line:84% I came in, had senior management positions, 03:50:12.810 --> 03:50:19.140 align:middle line:84% raised families, supported one family in the Dorchester area, 03:50:19.140 --> 03:50:21.480 align:middle line:90% and lived in Swampscott. 03:50:21.480 --> 03:50:23.550 align:middle line:84% And it's from that perspective I've 03:50:23.550 --> 03:50:28.770 align:middle line:84% been able to observe disparities, 03:50:28.770 --> 03:50:37.740 align:middle line:84% how me and my family living in Swampscott, Black people, 03:50:37.740 --> 03:50:41.790 align:middle line:84% compare to what we had as a quality of life 03:50:41.790 --> 03:50:48.850 align:middle line:84% to those of our relatives living in Mattapan and Dorchester, 03:50:48.850 --> 03:50:51.220 align:middle line:90% to see children raised. 03:50:51.220 --> 03:50:57.250 align:middle line:84% So my concern and my expression of interest and ask, 03:50:57.250 --> 03:51:02.500 align:middle line:84% as you look at this possibility of dividing up and so on, 03:51:02.500 --> 03:51:08.950 align:middle line:84% is to look at what hovers over all of it, which is poverty, 03:51:08.950 --> 03:51:13.210 align:middle line:84% the disparities the Black children 03:51:13.210 --> 03:51:18.160 align:middle line:84% and adults who are suffering from disparities 03:51:18.160 --> 03:51:26.280 align:middle line:84% in areas like Mattapan, Dorchester, Roxbury. 03:51:26.280 --> 03:51:31.880 align:middle line:84% It is so striking that from my observation, 03:51:31.880 --> 03:51:36.740 align:middle line:84% as someone who has now been in the public health area, 03:51:36.740 --> 03:51:40.890 align:middle line:90% recognizing how poverty-- 03:51:40.890 --> 03:51:46.850 align:middle line:84% so I would ask as you and your colleagues look at these issues 03:51:46.850 --> 03:51:49.340 align:middle line:84% and what changes need to be made-- 03:51:49.340 --> 03:51:53.090 align:middle line:84% I was so grateful to be sitting here for 9:59 03:51:53.090 --> 03:51:55.790 align:middle line:84% and to listen to every presentation. 03:51:55.790 --> 03:52:00.660 align:middle line:84% And there's not one that I think I could disagree with. 03:52:00.660 --> 03:52:03.230 align:middle line:84% We need to look at the bigger issues 03:52:03.230 --> 03:52:08.390 align:middle line:84% of, what might this very narrow focus be? 03:52:08.390 --> 03:52:10.370 align:middle line:90% What is the impact? 03:52:10.370 --> 03:52:15.770 align:middle line:84% How might we be looking at raising the standard of living 03:52:15.770 --> 03:52:22.100 align:middle line:84% for Roxbury to bring the quality of life and economic stability 03:52:22.100 --> 03:52:26.870 align:middle line:84% to be comparable to [? Weston ?] and Marblehead, and Swampscott, 03:52:26.870 --> 03:52:29.990 align:middle line:90% and all the upscale areas? 03:52:29.990 --> 03:52:33.260 align:middle line:90% So that's my expression to you. 03:52:33.260 --> 03:52:37.040 align:middle line:84% I don't know much about or anything about redistricting, 03:52:37.040 --> 03:52:39.770 align:middle line:84% but I'm just thinking of, what is the impact 03:52:39.770 --> 03:52:44.120 align:middle line:84% on how-- if we are going to make for a better quality of life, 03:52:44.120 --> 03:52:46.040 align:middle line:90% what are the considerations? 03:52:46.040 --> 03:52:52.550 align:middle line:84% And my recommendation is that our generation 03:52:52.550 --> 03:52:56.600 align:middle line:84% obliterate poverty among those who 03:52:56.600 --> 03:52:59.660 align:middle line:90% are suffering the most from it. 03:52:59.660 --> 03:53:01.992 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:53:01.992 --> 03:53:03.200 align:middle line:90% Thank you for that statement. 03:53:03.200 --> 03:53:04.350 align:middle line:90% Thank you for your passion. 03:53:04.350 --> 03:53:06.590 align:middle line:84% Thank you for your vision and what you're seeing. 03:53:06.590 --> 03:53:09.110 align:middle line:84% And we see it, too, and we feel it, too. 03:53:09.110 --> 03:53:12.550 align:middle line:90% 03:53:12.550 --> 03:53:15.978 align:middle line:84% Other comments, questions from members of the Committee? 03:53:15.978 --> 03:53:20.835 align:middle line:90% 03:53:20.835 --> 03:53:21.460 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Sir. 03:53:21.460 --> 03:53:25.340 align:middle line:84% Thank you for staying with us through the hearing. 03:53:25.340 --> 03:53:28.100 align:middle line:90% Maeve, who's next? 03:53:28.100 --> 03:53:31.530 align:middle line:90% We have Chris Spears. 03:53:31.530 --> 03:53:33.310 align:middle line:84% So skipping over [? Derek ?] Rice, 03:53:33.310 --> 03:53:35.848 align:middle line:84% who I take it is not on the line at this time, 03:53:35.848 --> 03:53:37.515 align:middle line:84% we're going to go to Christopher Spears. 03:53:37.515 --> 03:53:58.160 align:middle line:90% 03:53:58.160 --> 03:54:02.625 align:middle line:84% It looks like he might not want to testify. 03:54:02.625 --> 03:54:10.020 align:middle line:90% 03:54:10.020 --> 03:54:11.760 align:middle line:90% Just kidding. 03:54:11.760 --> 03:54:13.530 align:middle line:90% Chris does have his hand up. 03:54:13.530 --> 03:54:15.808 align:middle line:90% We're going to get you in. 03:54:15.808 --> 03:54:16.850 align:middle line:90% I think it's working now. 03:54:16.850 --> 03:54:21.270 align:middle line:90% 03:54:21.270 --> 03:54:23.120 align:middle line:90% There you go. 03:54:23.120 --> 03:54:25.660 align:middle line:84% So you should-- looks like you're-- 03:54:25.660 --> 03:54:28.426 align:middle line:90% 03:54:28.426 --> 03:54:31.220 align:middle line:90% you need to unmute, Chris, and-- 03:54:31.220 --> 03:54:33.610 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:54:33.610 --> 03:54:35.100 align:middle line:90% Hello, thank you. 03:54:35.100 --> 03:54:38.120 align:middle line:90% 03:54:38.120 --> 03:54:40.250 align:middle line:84% Good afternoon, members of the Committee. 03:54:40.250 --> 03:54:43.880 align:middle line:84% I've been at Randolph, Massachusetts 03:54:43.880 --> 03:54:46.310 align:middle line:90% for over 20 years. 03:54:46.310 --> 03:54:48.590 align:middle line:84% I'll probably mostly be cosigning 03:54:48.590 --> 03:54:58.070 align:middle line:84% what my town councilors and Town Manager Brian Howard stated. 03:54:58.070 --> 03:55:00.620 align:middle line:84% Randolph is a majority-minority town, 03:55:00.620 --> 03:55:04.310 align:middle line:84% and it's split into three state House districts. 03:55:04.310 --> 03:55:07.430 align:middle line:84% And over those past two decades, none 03:55:07.430 --> 03:55:09.950 align:middle line:84% of our state representatives or senators 03:55:09.950 --> 03:55:12.140 align:middle line:90% have been from Randolph. 03:55:12.140 --> 03:55:15.290 align:middle line:84% All have come from our neighboring towns of Quincy, 03:55:15.290 --> 03:55:16.950 align:middle line:90% Braintree, and Milton. 03:55:16.950 --> 03:55:19.940 align:middle line:84% Although these representatives endeavor to serve Randolph, 03:55:19.940 --> 03:55:21.980 align:middle line:84% they do come from and are primarily 03:55:21.980 --> 03:55:24.680 align:middle line:84% elected by their home municipalities, which 03:55:24.680 --> 03:55:27.230 align:middle line:84% are more affluent than Randolph and have 03:55:27.230 --> 03:55:30.470 align:middle line:84% different economic drivers than our town. 03:55:30.470 --> 03:55:32.810 align:middle line:84% Every House district in Massachusetts 03:55:32.810 --> 03:55:35.810 align:middle line:90% contains around 42,000 people. 03:55:35.810 --> 03:55:40.340 align:middle line:84% Randolph had around 32,000 people in the 2010 census. 03:55:40.340 --> 03:55:42.770 align:middle line:84% And with its growing population, I 03:55:42.770 --> 03:55:45.980 align:middle line:84% believe we warrant a House district centering 03:55:45.980 --> 03:55:48.590 align:middle line:90% on our majority-minority town. 03:55:48.590 --> 03:55:50.720 align:middle line:84% This proposed Randolph-centered district 03:55:50.720 --> 03:55:54.770 align:middle line:84% would be the 21st majority-minority state-level 03:55:54.770 --> 03:55:57.800 align:middle line:84% district in Massachusetts, because Randolph 03:55:57.800 --> 03:56:01.550 align:middle line:84% has been identified as the most diverse municipality 03:56:01.550 --> 03:56:03.260 align:middle line:90% in the Commonwealth. 03:56:03.260 --> 03:56:06.380 align:middle line:84% I urge you to keep this in consideration 03:56:06.380 --> 03:56:09.600 align:middle line:84% during the upcoming redistricting process. 03:56:09.600 --> 03:56:12.870 align:middle line:90% Thank you for your time. 03:56:12.870 --> 03:56:14.300 align:middle line:90% We thank you for your testimony. 03:56:14.300 --> 03:56:15.425 align:middle line:90% Appreciate you weighing in. 03:56:15.425 --> 03:56:17.840 align:middle line:84% We thank you for your patience, by the way, hanging in 03:56:17.840 --> 03:56:20.322 align:middle line:90% until the final hour here. 03:56:20.322 --> 03:56:21.530 align:middle line:90% So glad you could be with us. 03:56:21.530 --> 03:56:24.200 align:middle line:90% 03:56:24.200 --> 03:56:25.850 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Sir. 03:56:25.850 --> 03:56:27.890 align:middle line:90% Is Carlos Montero with us? 03:56:27.890 --> 03:56:31.500 align:middle line:90% 03:56:31.500 --> 03:56:36.720 align:middle line:84% No, I believe the next person we have is Reggie Stewart. 03:56:36.720 --> 03:56:44.270 align:middle line:84% OK, so I'm skipping over Carlos Montero. 03:56:44.270 --> 03:56:47.870 align:middle line:90% 03:56:47.870 --> 03:56:51.680 align:middle line:84% And I'm skipping over the Sonia Dean and Jason Boyd. 03:56:51.680 --> 03:56:54.600 align:middle line:90% 03:56:54.600 --> 03:56:56.970 align:middle line:90% And we welcome Reggie Stewart. 03:56:56.970 --> 03:56:59.590 align:middle line:84% Thank you for being with us, Sir. 03:56:59.590 --> 03:57:01.000 align:middle line:90% Thank you for having me. 03:57:01.000 --> 03:57:02.400 align:middle line:90% Can you hear me all right? 03:57:02.400 --> 03:57:05.310 align:middle line:84% Yep, we can hear you loud and clear, and we can see you. 03:57:05.310 --> 03:57:06.240 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 03:57:06.240 --> 03:57:09.600 align:middle line:84% I just wanted to note that although Jason Boyd's not 03:57:09.600 --> 03:57:13.500 align:middle line:84% able to attend, that Yvette Modestin will be speaking 03:57:13.500 --> 03:57:15.630 align:middle line:84% in his stead, so if we could elevate her 03:57:15.630 --> 03:57:19.200 align:middle line:90% at some point, that'd be great. 03:57:19.200 --> 03:57:24.030 align:middle line:84% Thank you, Senator Brownsberger, Representative Moran, 03:57:24.030 --> 03:57:26.490 align:middle line:90% the rest of the Committee. 03:57:26.490 --> 03:57:30.060 align:middle line:84% I'm coming to this as a resident of Dorchester. 03:57:30.060 --> 03:57:34.110 align:middle line:84% I've lived in Boston for roughly 20 years, 03:57:34.110 --> 03:57:37.650 align:middle line:84% and I just wanted to quote something from history 03:57:37.650 --> 03:57:41.700 align:middle line:84% to, kind of, frame what I'm wishing to discuss in terms 03:57:41.700 --> 03:57:44.010 align:middle line:90% of a community of interest. 03:57:44.010 --> 03:57:48.750 align:middle line:84% In 1687, French Protestant refugees 03:57:48.750 --> 03:57:52.380 align:middle line:84% came to the United States, traveled to New England, 03:57:52.380 --> 03:57:55.470 align:middle line:84% and he noted about Boston specifically 03:57:55.470 --> 03:57:58.740 align:middle line:84% that there is not a house in Boston, 03:57:58.740 --> 03:58:05.410 align:middle line:84% however small may be its means, that has not one or two slaves. 03:58:05.410 --> 03:58:09.840 align:middle line:84% So the fact that in the 7th district of Massachusetts, 03:58:09.840 --> 03:58:13.620 align:middle line:84% we now have Ayanna Pressley who descends 03:58:13.620 --> 03:58:16.050 align:middle line:84% from persons enslaved in the United States 03:58:16.050 --> 03:58:18.070 align:middle line:90% is a very big deal. 03:58:18.070 --> 03:58:23.160 align:middle line:84% And in order for her and officials 03:58:23.160 --> 03:58:25.800 align:middle line:84% like her to have the wind at their back, 03:58:25.800 --> 03:58:29.910 align:middle line:84% it's very important when we draw congressional districts to make 03:58:29.910 --> 03:58:34.260 align:middle line:84% sure that we are not complicit in the dilution 03:58:34.260 --> 03:58:37.350 align:middle line:90% of Black political power. 03:58:37.350 --> 03:58:42.270 align:middle line:84% In 2020, the Community Reinvestment Coalition 03:58:42.270 --> 03:58:44.730 align:middle line:84% observed that Boston, Massachusetts 03:58:44.730 --> 03:58:50.970 align:middle line:84% is the third most intensely gentrified city in the country. 03:58:50.970 --> 03:58:55.620 align:middle line:84% And further also at the end of 2020, a study in Stanford 03:58:55.620 --> 03:58:58.260 align:middle line:84% noted that majority-Black neighborhoods 03:58:58.260 --> 03:59:03.460 align:middle line:84% have the fewest options when it comes to gentrification. 03:59:03.460 --> 03:59:07.530 align:middle line:84% So what that means is that even though populations 03:59:07.530 --> 03:59:10.980 align:middle line:84% shift and populations grow, what happens to Black communities 03:59:10.980 --> 03:59:13.530 align:middle line:84% disproportionately is that they are scattered. 03:59:13.530 --> 03:59:17.370 align:middle line:84% And you see that in places like Brockton, 03:59:17.370 --> 03:59:20.610 align:middle line:84% even though that's in the 8th, that the Black population has 03:59:20.610 --> 03:59:24.360 align:middle line:90% tripled since 1990. 03:59:24.360 --> 03:59:29.490 align:middle line:84% Randolph has nearly doubled since 2000. 03:59:29.490 --> 03:59:33.270 align:middle line:84% So what I'm looking for in terms of redistricting-- 03:59:33.270 --> 03:59:36.780 align:middle line:84% I know it can't stay exactly the same. 03:59:36.780 --> 03:59:40.170 align:middle line:84% I'm going to need you all to find out 03:59:40.170 --> 03:59:42.750 align:middle line:84% not just where Black people live, 03:59:42.750 --> 03:59:44.400 align:middle line:90% but where Black people went. 03:59:44.400 --> 03:59:46.350 align:middle line:90% Where were they displaced to? 03:59:46.350 --> 03:59:49.500 align:middle line:84% And to the extent possible, how can you 03:59:49.500 --> 03:59:53.070 align:middle line:84% bring some of those displaced populations 03:59:53.070 --> 03:59:57.930 align:middle line:84% back into the 7th district, back into whatever state 03:59:57.930 --> 04:00:03.650 align:middle line:84% districts we have, to make sure that, to the extent possible, 04:00:03.650 --> 04:00:06.920 align:middle line:84% Black people's political voice and their votes 04:00:06.920 --> 04:00:09.740 align:middle line:84% are not diluted as they're scattered 04:00:09.740 --> 04:00:12.890 align:middle line:90% into various neighborhoods. 04:00:12.890 --> 04:00:18.380 align:middle line:84% And again, it helps to have that unified Black 04:00:18.380 --> 04:00:22.580 align:middle line:84% voice to be the wind at the back of people like Ayanna Pressley 04:00:22.580 --> 04:00:26.660 align:middle line:84% as she fights for reparations, for direct capital 04:00:26.660 --> 04:00:29.240 align:middle line:84% infusion into Black communities, fighting 04:00:29.240 --> 04:00:33.110 align:middle line:84% for housing as a human right, fighting for it as part 04:00:33.110 --> 04:00:41.270 align:middle line:84% of infrastructure, climate justice, environmental justice, 04:00:41.270 --> 04:00:42.680 align:middle line:90% transit equity. 04:00:42.680 --> 04:00:49.170 align:middle line:84% All of those things require a voter base 04:00:49.170 --> 04:00:52.080 align:middle line:84% that can speak to how those issues are affecting us 04:00:52.080 --> 04:00:52.760 align:middle line:90% negatively. 04:00:52.760 --> 04:00:56.910 align:middle line:84% So as you draw on or redraw those lines, 04:00:56.910 --> 04:00:59.250 align:middle line:84% that's what I'm going to be looking for, 04:00:59.250 --> 04:01:02.070 align:middle line:84% that you are recognizing how Black people have 04:01:02.070 --> 04:01:05.700 align:middle line:84% been scattered throughout the 7th district 04:01:05.700 --> 04:01:10.050 align:middle line:84% and, to a large extent, outside of the 7th district. 04:01:10.050 --> 04:01:13.320 align:middle line:84% So that's what I'm going to be looking for, 04:01:13.320 --> 04:01:16.770 align:middle line:84% the recognition of that and you drawing the districts 04:01:16.770 --> 04:01:17.590 align:middle line:90% accordingly. 04:01:17.590 --> 04:01:20.460 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 04:01:20.460 --> 04:01:24.090 align:middle line:84% Thank you for articulating that frame. 04:01:24.090 --> 04:01:26.650 align:middle line:90% It's helpful. 04:01:26.650 --> 04:01:29.256 align:middle line:84% Any questions from members of the Committee? 04:01:29.256 --> 04:01:32.730 align:middle line:90% 04:01:32.730 --> 04:01:33.480 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 04:01:33.480 --> 04:01:35.670 align:middle line:90% And with you testifying-- 04:01:35.670 --> 04:01:38.340 align:middle line:90% 04:01:38.340 --> 04:01:39.690 align:middle line:90% yes, Ma'am. 04:01:39.690 --> 04:01:41.140 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon. 04:01:41.140 --> 04:01:42.794 align:middle line:90% Good afternoon. 04:01:42.794 --> 04:01:48.840 align:middle line:84% [SPANISH] First and foremost, I want to thank our Congresswoman 04:01:48.840 --> 04:01:52.650 align:middle line:84% Ayanna Pressley, who has been a friend to our community, 04:01:52.650 --> 04:01:58.290 align:middle line:84% for her testimony, and also to Suzanne for her inspiration 04:01:58.290 --> 04:02:00.900 align:middle line:84% this morning and her words saying, 04:02:00.900 --> 04:02:07.500 align:middle line:84% keep our community whole, and to Marisol for [SPEAKING SPANISH].. 04:02:07.500 --> 04:02:11.470 align:middle line:90% 04:02:11.470 --> 04:02:13.440 align:middle line:84% I would like to thank the committee chairs 04:02:13.440 --> 04:02:16.230 align:middle line:84% Senator William Brownsberger and Representative Mike Moran 04:02:16.230 --> 04:02:18.210 align:middle line:84% as well as other members of the Committee 04:02:18.210 --> 04:02:21.840 align:middle line:84% for hosting this public hearing and for your commitment 04:02:21.840 --> 04:02:24.660 align:middle line:84% to engaging with grassroots organizations 04:02:24.660 --> 04:02:26.910 align:middle line:90% throughout this process. 04:02:26.910 --> 04:02:28.800 align:middle line:84% My name is Yvette Modestin, and I'm here 04:02:28.800 --> 04:02:33.090 align:middle line:84% representing our Director of Community Organizing Resident 04:02:33.090 --> 04:02:36.270 align:middle line:84% Resources, Jason Boyd, of the Codman Square NDC 04:02:36.270 --> 04:02:37.320 align:middle line:90% in Dorchester. 04:02:37.320 --> 04:02:40.830 align:middle line:84% Codman Square NDC is a proud member of the Drawing Democracy 04:02:40.830 --> 04:02:43.170 align:middle line:84% Coalition and are actively involved 04:02:43.170 --> 04:02:45.840 align:middle line:84% with working with various communities of interest 04:02:45.840 --> 04:02:48.600 align:middle line:84% in the Codman Square Four Corners community 04:02:48.600 --> 04:02:52.770 align:middle line:84% to offer input into the creation of a fair and equitable mapping 04:02:52.770 --> 04:02:55.110 align:middle line:84% process that highlights our community's shared 04:02:55.110 --> 04:02:59.110 align:middle line:84% strengths, interests, collective assets, physical, social, 04:02:59.110 --> 04:03:01.830 align:middle line:84% and otherwise, as well as policy concerns 04:03:01.830 --> 04:03:03.480 align:middle line:90% and collective challenges. 04:03:03.480 --> 04:03:07.215 align:middle line:84% I want to thank our Keeping Codman Affordable leader Reggie 04:03:07.215 --> 04:03:09.240 align:middle line:90% Stewart for his testimony. 04:03:09.240 --> 04:03:11.550 align:middle line:84% These communities of interest that we are engaging 04:03:11.550 --> 04:03:14.850 align:middle line:84% represent tenant associations from our large portfolio 04:03:14.850 --> 04:03:17.700 align:middle line:84% of approximately 1,000 units of housing, 04:03:17.700 --> 04:03:19.470 align:middle line:84% local affinity groups like Daughters 04:03:19.470 --> 04:03:21.480 align:middle line:84% of the Dust that represent the Codman Square 04:03:21.480 --> 04:03:24.390 align:middle line:84% chapter of the national organization, GirlTrek, 04:03:24.390 --> 04:03:27.810 align:middle line:84% neighborhood association groups, and advocacy-focused 04:03:27.810 --> 04:03:29.940 align:middle line:84% collectives such as Keeping Codman Affordable, 04:03:29.940 --> 04:03:32.520 align:middle line:84% as you just heard from Reggie, one of our leaders, 04:03:32.520 --> 04:03:34.890 align:middle line:90% Brothers Building, and others. 04:03:34.890 --> 04:03:38.610 align:middle line:84% These various groups represent a rich range of collective action 04:03:38.610 --> 04:03:39.810 align:middle line:90% and concerns. 04:03:39.810 --> 04:03:43.110 align:middle line:84% They have worked together over the years and currently. 04:03:43.110 --> 04:03:45.660 align:middle line:84% This work includes but is not limited 04:03:45.660 --> 04:03:49.710 align:middle line:84% to advocacy for equitable access to healthy foods, transit 04:03:49.710 --> 04:03:53.370 align:middle line:84% justice, anti-displacement, violence reduction, 04:03:53.370 --> 04:03:57.180 align:middle line:84% and elimination and environmental sustainability 04:03:57.180 --> 04:04:00.570 align:middle line:84% and job creation, health and well-being for Black women, 04:04:00.570 --> 04:04:04.620 align:middle line:84% and holistic well-being focused on Black and Latinx men. 04:04:04.620 --> 04:04:07.890 align:middle line:84% Our community is also connected by our shared and nuanced 04:04:07.890 --> 04:04:10.290 align:middle line:84% history as an African-American, Afro-Caribbean, 04:04:10.290 --> 04:04:13.200 align:middle line:90% and Latinx everyday people. 04:04:13.200 --> 04:04:16.530 align:middle line:84% We share many, many cultural spaces, familial traditions, 04:04:16.530 --> 04:04:18.300 align:middle line:90% and community ties. 04:04:18.300 --> 04:04:21.780 align:middle line:84% We also share the weight of marginalization 04:04:21.780 --> 04:04:24.060 align:middle line:84% that Black, Brown, and working-class communities 04:04:24.060 --> 04:04:25.690 align:middle line:90% contend with. 04:04:25.690 --> 04:04:28.260 align:middle line:84% We are hoping this redistricting process results 04:04:28.260 --> 04:04:31.500 align:middle line:84% in a mapping process that amplifies the voices 04:04:31.500 --> 04:04:35.310 align:middle line:84% and concerns of our community and provides equitable access 04:04:35.310 --> 04:04:39.930 align:middle line:84% to power, and robust, committed, and intentional representation 04:04:39.930 --> 04:04:41.670 align:middle line:90% from elected officials. 04:04:41.670 --> 04:04:43.320 align:middle line:84% We have witnessed and experienced 04:04:43.320 --> 04:04:45.450 align:middle line:84% here in the congressional district 7 04:04:45.450 --> 04:04:48.210 align:middle line:84% the power of representation that is equipped, 04:04:48.210 --> 04:04:50.130 align:middle line:90% informed, and unafraid. 04:04:50.130 --> 04:04:53.130 align:middle line:84% We are confident District 7 will continue to be 04:04:53.130 --> 04:04:56.460 align:middle line:84% a majority-minority district, and hopefully, 04:04:56.460 --> 04:05:00.120 align:middle line:84% that this mapping process increases districts that are 04:05:00.120 --> 04:05:05.250 align:middle line:84% majority-people-of-color, and people-of-color-influenced. 04:05:05.250 --> 04:05:07.455 align:middle line:90% Thank you for your time. 04:05:07.455 --> 04:05:09.330 align:middle line:84% Thank you very much for your clear testimony. 04:05:09.330 --> 04:05:12.030 align:middle line:90% Very much appreciate it. 04:05:12.030 --> 04:05:14.408 align:middle line:84% Are there questions from members of the Committee? 04:05:14.408 --> 04:05:17.040 align:middle line:90% 04:05:17.040 --> 04:05:18.510 align:middle line:90% OK. 04:05:18.510 --> 04:05:22.170 align:middle line:90% Thank you, Mr. Stewart and-- 04:05:22.170 --> 04:05:23.220 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 04:05:23.220 --> 04:05:24.330 align:middle line:90% And your name-- 04:05:24.330 --> 04:05:25.740 align:middle line:90% Yvette Modestin. 04:05:25.740 --> 04:05:26.670 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 04:05:26.670 --> 04:05:28.770 align:middle line:84% Thank you so much for your testimony. 04:05:28.770 --> 04:05:31.440 align:middle line:90% Appreciate it. 04:05:31.440 --> 04:05:35.790 align:middle line:90% So going to-- who's next, Maeve? 04:05:35.790 --> 04:05:39.780 align:middle line:84% I don't believe we have anyone on the list 04:05:39.780 --> 04:05:44.430 align:middle line:84% who is in the attendee waiting area who hasn't spoken yet. 04:05:44.430 --> 04:05:45.720 align:middle line:90% OK. 04:05:45.720 --> 04:05:52.110 align:middle line:84% So let's say if you are on the line 04:05:52.110 --> 04:05:54.810 align:middle line:84% and you're wishing to speak, now's the time 04:05:54.810 --> 04:05:58.770 align:middle line:84% to put something in the chat and let us know that we are not 04:05:58.770 --> 04:05:59.880 align:middle line:90% seeing you. 04:05:59.880 --> 04:06:04.280 align:middle line:84% I see Marisol has her hand raised. 04:06:04.280 --> 04:06:07.460 align:middle line:84% Marisol-- why don't you promote Marisol 04:06:07.460 --> 04:06:11.210 align:middle line:84% so she can tell us what she sees? 04:06:11.210 --> 04:06:13.100 align:middle line:84% Although that may be an old hand raise. 04:06:13.100 --> 04:06:17.760 align:middle line:90% 04:06:17.760 --> 04:06:21.250 align:middle line:84% Mirasol, did you have anybody else? 04:06:21.250 --> 04:06:21.760 align:middle line:90% Yes. 04:06:21.760 --> 04:06:22.260 align:middle line:90% Hi. 04:06:22.260 --> 04:06:26.440 align:middle line:84% Sorry, I was swapping in between the links here. 04:06:26.440 --> 04:06:33.130 align:middle line:84% I did decide to register after 1:00 PM 04:06:33.130 --> 04:06:35.740 align:middle line:84% and wanted to know if I could share a couple of minutes 04:06:35.740 --> 04:06:36.730 align:middle line:90% very briefly. 04:06:36.730 --> 04:06:38.550 align:middle line:84% No, that's absolutely not a problem. 04:06:38.550 --> 04:06:40.220 align:middle line:84% I know you've been with us all along. 04:06:40.220 --> 04:06:43.100 align:middle line:84% We appreciate your services and translation. 04:06:43.100 --> 04:06:44.320 align:middle line:90% Thank you very much. 04:06:44.320 --> 04:06:47.090 align:middle line:84% By all means, give us your own thoughts. 04:06:47.090 --> 04:06:48.100 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 04:06:48.100 --> 04:06:52.130 align:middle line:84% So [INAUDIBLE] resident, I am a member of the Chelsea School 04:06:52.130 --> 04:06:52.630 align:middle line:90% Committee. 04:06:52.630 --> 04:06:54.850 align:middle line:84% I am the representative of District 3. 04:06:54.850 --> 04:06:59.585 align:middle line:84% I'm also the Ward 3 chair of our Democratic Ward Committee. 04:06:59.585 --> 04:07:04.600 align:middle line:84% I've been a lifelong resident of the city of Chelsea. 04:07:04.600 --> 04:07:09.550 align:middle line:84% My family originally came here from Puerto Rico-- 04:07:09.550 --> 04:07:11.530 align:middle line:84% rich history, beautiful city of course 04:07:11.530 --> 04:07:14.560 align:middle line:90% that the Committee is aware of. 04:07:14.560 --> 04:07:17.350 align:middle line:84% I personally wanted to share a little bit 04:07:17.350 --> 04:07:23.680 align:middle line:84% about my personal experiences in terms of civic engagement 04:07:23.680 --> 04:07:27.940 align:middle line:84% and building political power in the state of Massachusetts. 04:07:27.940 --> 04:07:29.800 align:middle line:84% I've been blessed and fortunate enough 04:07:29.800 --> 04:07:35.650 align:middle line:84% to participate in grassroots organizing and really 04:07:35.650 --> 04:07:38.530 align:middle line:84% making sure that all our voices are lifted 04:07:38.530 --> 04:07:43.660 align:middle line:84% into decision-making spaces, that it is accessible for all 04:07:43.660 --> 04:07:45.190 align:middle line:90% our communities. 04:07:45.190 --> 04:07:47.755 align:middle line:84% In particular, in the last few years, 04:07:47.755 --> 04:07:55.150 align:middle line:84% I was part of advising state representative candidates-- 04:07:55.150 --> 04:07:58.570 align:middle line:84% two in the last year alone from Chelsea and Revere. 04:07:58.570 --> 04:08:02.290 align:middle line:84% And also having been part of two special elections in our Senate 04:08:02.290 --> 04:08:07.030 align:middle line:84% district in East Boston, there's clearly-- 04:08:07.030 --> 04:08:10.270 align:middle line:84% my heart goes out to everyone involved that made 04:08:10.270 --> 04:08:13.300 align:middle line:90% those campaigns possible. 04:08:13.300 --> 04:08:17.800 align:middle line:84% But I think I agree that our beloved Suzanne Lee 04:08:17.800 --> 04:08:22.010 align:middle line:84% and her inspiring testimony today-- really, 04:08:22.010 --> 04:08:25.330 align:middle line:84% really resonating with her around historically seeing 04:08:25.330 --> 04:08:28.390 align:middle line:84% a lot of our folks moving out of this region, 04:08:28.390 --> 04:08:32.290 align:middle line:84% in particular Chelsea, Revere, and Boston, whether being 04:08:32.290 --> 04:08:35.590 align:middle line:84% displaced or also because of environmental injustices 04:08:35.590 --> 04:08:38.680 align:middle line:84% and the burden of health disparities. 04:08:38.680 --> 04:08:40.480 align:middle line:84% As our colleague Roberto spoke today 04:08:40.480 --> 04:08:42.910 align:middle line:84% about COVID and the impact that this 04:08:42.910 --> 04:08:47.080 align:middle line:84% has had in Chelsea, being part of the school committee 04:08:47.080 --> 04:08:50.980 align:middle line:84% and really in conversations with families, it's clear 04:08:50.980 --> 04:08:53.380 align:middle line:90% that we have to do more here. 04:08:53.380 --> 04:08:56.230 align:middle line:84% And as someone who is always encouraging folks 04:08:56.230 --> 04:08:59.440 align:middle line:84% to get registered and to not feel afraid of speaking up, 04:08:59.440 --> 04:09:02.290 align:middle line:84% this is clearly a historical moment. 04:09:02.290 --> 04:09:06.608 align:middle line:84% Because these opportunities only come once every 10 years. 04:09:06.608 --> 04:09:08.650 align:middle line:84% So I'm very grateful to be part of these efforts. 04:09:08.650 --> 04:09:11.620 align:middle line:84% I'm grateful for the opportunity to speak today. 04:09:11.620 --> 04:09:13.750 align:middle line:84% And I just really want to bring up 04:09:13.750 --> 04:09:17.320 align:middle line:84% that this is a beautiful opportunity. 04:09:17.320 --> 04:09:21.280 align:middle line:84% I do agree that any which way that we go is a change, 04:09:21.280 --> 04:09:25.060 align:middle line:84% and that we want to do the best possible, 04:09:25.060 --> 04:09:28.240 align:middle line:84% and that it isn't an easy task, but we 04:09:28.240 --> 04:09:31.090 align:middle line:84% hope to be in communication, so that the members 04:09:31.090 --> 04:09:32.730 align:middle line:90% of our communities can be heard. 04:09:32.730 --> 04:09:37.570 align:middle line:84% And just like today, they were able to share the stories 04:09:37.570 --> 04:09:39.910 align:middle line:84% that most impact their communities. 04:09:39.910 --> 04:09:42.580 align:middle line:84% The last thing I wanted to bring up 04:09:42.580 --> 04:09:47.980 align:middle line:84% to Representative Moran's point, which I really appreciated-- 04:09:47.980 --> 04:09:49.750 align:middle line:84% and the credit goes to the organizations 04:09:49.750 --> 04:09:54.340 align:middle line:84% that did this groundwork on this last census round. 04:09:54.340 --> 04:09:55.930 align:middle line:84% You know, needless to say, we were 04:09:55.930 --> 04:09:59.950 align:middle line:84% dealing with the previous administration in DC. 04:09:59.950 --> 04:10:05.120 align:middle line:84% That our communities were deeply afraid 04:10:05.120 --> 04:10:09.430 align:middle line:84% and didn't feel confident in filling out their census forms. 04:10:09.430 --> 04:10:10.930 align:middle line:90% And we heard those concerns. 04:10:10.930 --> 04:10:12.850 align:middle line:84% And again, I salute the organizations 04:10:12.850 --> 04:10:15.520 align:middle line:90% that did that work. 04:10:15.520 --> 04:10:18.040 align:middle line:84% I'm fearful that-- as a school committee member, 04:10:18.040 --> 04:10:21.850 align:middle line:84% we often hear that our school districts report-- 04:10:21.850 --> 04:10:24.730 align:middle line:84% that we have higher populations than what's actually 04:10:24.730 --> 04:10:26.770 align:middle line:90% on paper in the census. 04:10:26.770 --> 04:10:28.780 align:middle line:84% And in this process of redistricting, 04:10:28.780 --> 04:10:32.650 align:middle line:84% I know that we're looking at what we 04:10:32.650 --> 04:10:35.150 align:middle line:90% can define as eligible voters. 04:10:35.150 --> 04:10:38.680 align:middle line:84% But I think there's a real scenario, 04:10:38.680 --> 04:10:41.230 align:middle line:84% as alluded to earlier, that we have to be thinking 04:10:41.230 --> 04:10:43.150 align:middle line:90% about the immediate future. 04:10:43.150 --> 04:10:45.850 align:middle line:84% And that means protecting our communities, 04:10:45.850 --> 04:10:48.127 align:middle line:90% protecting our most vulnerable. 04:10:48.127 --> 04:10:50.710 align:middle line:84% And I look forward to continuing this process with all of you. 04:10:50.710 --> 04:10:53.210 align:middle line:84% And I'm just really grateful for the opportunity here today. 04:10:53.210 --> 04:10:56.210 align:middle line:90% 04:10:56.210 --> 04:10:56.710 align:middle line:90% No. 04:10:56.710 --> 04:10:59.140 align:middle line:84% Thank you for all of your engagement in this process. 04:10:59.140 --> 04:11:02.550 align:middle line:84% Could you just speak a little bit more about this comment 04:11:02.550 --> 04:11:05.050 align:middle line:84% about where people are going as a result of the displacement 04:11:05.050 --> 04:11:07.060 align:middle line:84% that you're seeing in East Boston now? 04:11:07.060 --> 04:11:09.685 align:middle line:84% Is that confined to East Boston, or is that also even happening 04:11:09.685 --> 04:11:11.260 align:middle line:90% in Chelsea at this stage? 04:11:11.260 --> 04:11:13.360 align:middle line:84% I see it in both, in the conversations 04:11:13.360 --> 04:11:14.290 align:middle line:90% that I've been in. 04:11:14.290 --> 04:11:19.420 align:middle line:84% In particular, I will say, we were actually talking-- 04:11:19.420 --> 04:11:23.950 align:middle line:84% we separated a complete discussion 04:11:23.950 --> 04:11:28.090 align:middle line:84% to be had to exactly that point, to the folks that are leaving 04:11:28.090 --> 04:11:29.670 align:middle line:90% or have left rather. 04:11:29.670 --> 04:11:31.420 align:middle line:84% Some of them are going to the North Shore, 04:11:31.420 --> 04:11:35.440 align:middle line:84% was my understanding, splitting between Lynn and Salem. 04:11:35.440 --> 04:11:38.170 align:middle line:90% Some folks are looking at-- 04:11:38.170 --> 04:11:41.290 align:middle line:84% I don't even know what's the right word, in terms of 04:11:41.290 --> 04:11:41.890 align:middle line:90% [? coast. ?] 04:11:41.890 --> 04:11:43.600 align:middle line:84% But it feels like the large percentage, 04:11:43.600 --> 04:11:46.142 align:middle line:84% I definitely heard, was heading more towards the North Shore, 04:11:46.142 --> 04:11:49.180 align:middle line:84% North Shore being Lynn, Salem, and that area. 04:11:49.180 --> 04:11:52.840 align:middle line:84% And then, I've also heard from people that are actually just 04:11:52.840 --> 04:11:54.670 align:middle line:90% really concerned about-- 04:11:54.670 --> 04:11:56.620 align:middle line:84% to Reggie's point earlier, actually, 04:11:56.620 --> 04:12:01.540 align:middle line:84% when he said when we really want to make sure that we're not 04:12:01.540 --> 04:12:03.310 align:middle line:84% just looking for Black community but also 04:12:03.310 --> 04:12:05.295 align:middle line:90% where they're going to. 04:12:05.295 --> 04:12:07.420 align:middle line:84% I think that really resonated, because we're trying 04:12:07.420 --> 04:12:09.970 align:middle line:90% to track where families are. 04:12:09.970 --> 04:12:13.060 align:middle line:84% For that same reason, Senator, because we understand 04:12:13.060 --> 04:12:15.520 align:middle line:84% that communities do better when they have community, 04:12:15.520 --> 04:12:18.460 align:middle line:84% and we often find that immigrant populations, 04:12:18.460 --> 04:12:21.550 align:middle line:84% even to the schools, we heard that there's 04:12:21.550 --> 04:12:24.760 align:middle line:84% been an increase and new students 04:12:24.760 --> 04:12:26.140 align:middle line:90% in the Chelsea district. 04:12:26.140 --> 04:12:29.620 align:middle line:84% And we gather as well that families usually 04:12:29.620 --> 04:12:31.480 align:middle line:84% migrate where they have community, 04:12:31.480 --> 04:12:34.480 align:middle line:90% family members, or friends. 04:12:34.480 --> 04:12:36.370 align:middle line:84% And so I think it's something that we're 04:12:36.370 --> 04:12:40.510 align:middle line:84% looking at in terms of really calculating, pinpointing 04:12:40.510 --> 04:12:43.510 align:middle line:84% more understanding about what that looks like on a map. 04:12:43.510 --> 04:12:46.300 align:middle line:84% But to my understanding, at the very minimum from East Boston, 04:12:46.300 --> 04:12:47.800 align:middle line:84% they were moving to the North Shore. 04:12:47.800 --> 04:12:49.300 align:middle line:84% And from Chelsea, it seems like it's 04:12:49.300 --> 04:12:51.430 align:middle line:84% been a little bit more dispersed, 04:12:51.430 --> 04:12:54.700 align:middle line:84% in terms of housing opportunities and access 04:12:54.700 --> 04:12:57.040 align:middle line:90% to affordable housing. 04:12:57.040 --> 04:12:57.760 align:middle line:90% That's helpful. 04:12:57.760 --> 04:12:58.720 align:middle line:90% Appreciate it. 04:12:58.720 --> 04:13:03.140 align:middle line:84% Again, thank you for all of your engagement. 04:13:03.140 --> 04:13:07.910 align:middle line:84% Any other questions from members of the Committee? 04:13:07.910 --> 04:13:11.690 align:middle line:84% OK, I see that Carolyn Chou in the attendees list 04:13:11.690 --> 04:13:12.535 align:middle line:90% has her hand raised. 04:13:12.535 --> 04:13:14.160 align:middle line:84% That's another good way to let us know. 04:13:14.160 --> 04:13:16.160 align:middle line:90% It's maybe the easiest way. 04:13:16.160 --> 04:13:18.955 align:middle line:84% So if you're in the webinar and you 04:13:18.955 --> 04:13:20.330 align:middle line:84% haven't spoken and wish to speak, 04:13:20.330 --> 04:13:21.670 align:middle line:90% feel free to raise your hand. 04:13:21.670 --> 04:13:22.800 align:middle line:90% Thank you for joining us. 04:13:22.800 --> 04:13:24.740 align:middle line:84% Thank you for raising your hand, Carolyn. 04:13:24.740 --> 04:13:26.060 align:middle line:90% Carolyn Chou, you are online. 04:13:26.060 --> 04:13:27.470 align:middle line:90% 04:13:27.470 --> 04:13:31.850 align:middle line:84% Hi, thank you so much and thanks for having this hearing. 04:13:31.850 --> 04:13:32.900 align:middle line:90% My name is Carolyn Chou. 04:13:32.900 --> 04:13:35.180 align:middle line:84% I'm the Executive Director of the Asian-American Resource 04:13:35.180 --> 04:13:35.690 align:middle line:90% Workshop. 04:13:35.690 --> 04:13:38.270 align:middle line:84% We're located in Fields Corner, Dorchester, 04:13:38.270 --> 04:13:40.910 align:middle line:84% and I'm also a resident of Dorchester. 04:13:40.910 --> 04:13:46.100 align:middle line:84% And I think folks have spoken to a lot of the core points, 04:13:46.100 --> 04:13:48.830 align:middle line:84% but I just want to just specifically lift up-- 04:13:48.830 --> 04:13:52.100 align:middle line:84% here in Fields Corner, we are a multiracial working-class 04:13:52.100 --> 04:13:55.520 align:middle line:84% neighborhood that is experiencing gentrification. 04:13:55.520 --> 04:13:57.650 align:middle line:84% And particularly, we are the heart 04:13:57.650 --> 04:14:00.170 align:middle line:84% of the Vietnamese community of Boston. 04:14:00.170 --> 04:14:02.570 align:middle line:84% And I think it's really important 04:14:02.570 --> 04:14:07.190 align:middle line:84% that we consider how to keep Fields Corner from continuing 04:14:07.190 --> 04:14:12.200 align:middle line:84% to be split in the state House process. 04:14:12.200 --> 04:14:15.200 align:middle line:84% And to what Suzanne said very much at the beginning, 04:14:15.200 --> 04:14:18.230 align:middle line:84% how can we make sure that the Asian community, 04:14:18.230 --> 04:14:21.020 align:middle line:84% the Southeast Asian community here in our neighborhood, 04:14:21.020 --> 04:14:24.950 align:middle line:84% is not put in a different district 04:14:24.950 --> 04:14:28.460 align:middle line:84% than other communities of color, other immigrant communities, 04:14:28.460 --> 04:14:31.040 align:middle line:84% other limited-English-proficient communities. 04:14:31.040 --> 04:14:35.750 align:middle line:84% Because what we see is, as the folks right before me said, 04:14:35.750 --> 04:14:39.890 align:middle line:84% we see a lot of the same issues around gentrification 04:14:39.890 --> 04:14:43.900 align:middle line:84% and displacement, language access, job access, all 04:14:43.900 --> 04:14:44.400 align:middle line:90% of that. 04:14:44.400 --> 04:14:45.920 align:middle line:84% And so it's really important to us 04:14:45.920 --> 04:14:49.400 align:middle line:84% that the Vietnamese community is considered 04:14:49.400 --> 04:14:51.770 align:middle line:84% as a community of interest in our neighborhood, 04:14:51.770 --> 04:14:55.220 align:middle line:84% and also that we are aligning the needs 04:14:55.220 --> 04:14:58.700 align:middle line:84% of the Vietnamese community with other communities of color 04:14:58.700 --> 04:14:59.810 align:middle line:90% in Dorchester. 04:14:59.810 --> 04:15:03.800 align:middle line:84% And so yeah, particularly thinking about Fields Corner, 04:15:03.800 --> 04:15:06.860 align:middle line:84% specifically, and keeping that chunk whole. 04:15:06.860 --> 04:15:09.770 align:middle line:84% And then, also knowing that the Vietnamese community, kind of, 04:15:09.770 --> 04:15:11.990 align:middle line:84% runs along what we call the Red Line 04:15:11.990 --> 04:15:14.330 align:middle line:90% corridor on Dorchester Ave-- 04:15:14.330 --> 04:15:18.350 align:middle line:84% how can we-- right now, a lot of things split in Dorchester, 04:15:18.350 --> 04:15:21.470 align:middle line:84% and how can we make sure that we keep the Vietnamese community 04:15:21.470 --> 04:15:22.835 align:middle line:90% whole as well? 04:15:22.835 --> 04:15:24.960 align:middle line:84% So yeah, I don't want to take up more of your time. 04:15:24.960 --> 04:15:26.543 align:middle line:84% I know you've had a lot of testimony-- 04:15:26.543 --> 04:15:29.570 align:middle line:84% but just lifting up that particular chunk within Boston. 04:15:29.570 --> 04:15:32.450 align:middle line:84% And also knowing that as you were just 04:15:32.450 --> 04:15:34.190 align:middle line:84% discussing prior to my testimony, 04:15:34.190 --> 04:15:38.630 align:middle line:84% that folks are getting moved out of the city, priced out 04:15:38.630 --> 04:15:39.300 align:middle line:90% of the city. 04:15:39.300 --> 04:15:41.390 align:middle line:84% And so we're seeing a lot of folks move south-- 04:15:41.390 --> 04:15:46.480 align:middle line:84% Quincy, Randolph, Braintree, et cetera. 04:15:46.480 --> 04:15:47.900 align:middle line:90% That's also helpful testimony. 04:15:47.900 --> 04:15:51.250 align:middle line:84% Appreciate you lifting up those points. 04:15:51.250 --> 04:15:56.120 align:middle line:84% Are there any questions for members of the Committee? 04:15:56.120 --> 04:15:58.820 align:middle line:84% OK, thank you for stepping up to offer that. 04:15:58.820 --> 04:16:01.310 align:middle line:90% Much appreciated. 04:16:01.310 --> 04:16:05.990 align:middle line:84% At this time, I don't see any other hands up. 04:16:05.990 --> 04:16:09.710 align:middle line:84% I'm going to temporize for a minute, chit chat for a second 04:16:09.710 --> 04:16:13.440 align:middle line:84% to give everybody a chance to come in if they want to. 04:16:13.440 --> 04:16:13.940 align:middle line:90% Let's see. 04:16:13.940 --> 04:16:16.820 align:middle line:84% Our next hearings-- let's maybe take 04:16:16.820 --> 04:16:19.392 align:middle line:84% the opportunity to mention when our next hearing is. 04:16:19.392 --> 04:16:20.975 align:middle line:84% Can somebody's pop that into the chat? 04:16:20.975 --> 04:16:24.400 align:middle line:90% 04:16:24.400 --> 04:16:25.780 align:middle line:90% When is our next hearing? 04:16:25.780 --> 04:16:29.370 align:middle line:90% 04:16:29.370 --> 04:16:32.020 align:middle line:84% We don't have another one this week. 04:16:32.020 --> 04:16:38.200 align:middle line:84% Next week, we've got language-specific hearings. 04:16:38.200 --> 04:16:42.520 align:middle line:84% We've got representative Auchincloss 04:16:42.520 --> 04:16:47.330 align:middle line:84% hearing for congressional district 4 at noon next Monday, 04:16:47.330 --> 04:16:49.270 align:middle line:84% and then we begin language-specific hearings 04:16:49.270 --> 04:16:53.920 align:middle line:84% in Mandarin and Cantonese on Tuesday afternoon, 04:16:53.920 --> 04:16:59.530 align:middle line:90% Spanish next Friday the 23rd. 04:16:59.530 --> 04:17:01.330 align:middle line:84% And those continue into the following week. 04:17:01.330 --> 04:17:04.510 align:middle line:84% We got Portuguese, Haitian Creole, Vietnamese, 04:17:04.510 --> 04:17:08.150 align:middle line:84% Cape Verdean Creole, and Khmer the following week. 04:17:08.150 --> 04:17:12.460 align:middle line:84% So as it was said earlier, you know, it's helpful for us 04:17:12.460 --> 04:17:16.060 align:middle line:84% if anybody who's listening will choose to pass on our links, 04:17:16.060 --> 04:17:19.600 align:middle line:84% pass on awareness of our hearings to your organizations, 04:17:19.600 --> 04:17:21.310 align:middle line:90% to your mailing lists. 04:17:21.310 --> 04:17:24.610 align:middle line:84% We appreciate everybody coming in. 04:17:24.610 --> 04:17:28.150 align:middle line:84% So with that, seeing no hands come up, 04:17:28.150 --> 04:17:32.790 align:middle line:84% I will entertain a motion to adjourn. 04:17:32.790 --> 04:17:35.560 align:middle line:90% Motion to adjourn. 04:17:35.560 --> 04:17:36.060 align:middle line:90% Second. 04:17:36.060 --> 04:17:38.780 align:middle line:90% 04:17:38.780 --> 04:17:40.900 align:middle line:90% Second. 04:17:40.900 --> 04:17:45.660 align:middle line:90% [INAUDIBLE] 04:17:45.660 --> 04:17:48.130 align:middle line:84% We got a motion, and it's been seconded. 04:17:48.130 --> 04:17:51.730 align:middle line:90% All in favor, click Leave. 04:17:51.730 --> 04:17:56.070 align:middle line:90% [INTERPOSING VOICES] 04:17:56.070 --> 04:20:18.000 align:middle line:90%