Frequently Asked Questions Wondering how redistricting works--and how we can

change it? Here are some simple answers.

How does redistricting work in Illinois?

Every ten years, the federal government conducts the U.S. Census. This

process counts people across the country, measuring populations in

neighborhoods, towns, cities, and states.

Because the Illinois General Assembly’s districts are meant to be equal

in population, they must be redrawn following each Census to keep up

with population changes. In Illinois, it is left up to the state legislature to

determine how the state districts are drawn.

If the legislators and the governor cannot agree on the new map, then

an 8-member commission is formed. While no more than four members

can be from the same party, party leaders make the appointments. The

President of the State Senate, the Speaker of the Illinois House, and the

House and Senate Minority Leaders each select two members.

 Why do we need to change this system?

In Illinois, it is left up to the state legislature to determine how the state

districts are drawn. That means partisan political leaders control the

process behind closed doors, creating maps that benefit their political

allies, not the constituents they are meant to represent. When

legislators are ineffective or corrupt, voters can’t hold them

accountable.

 What would redistricting reform look like?

CHANGE Illinois supports independent, transparent redistricting that

takes politics out of the process and engages voters across our state.

Such reforms have already taken effect in states like California and

Arizona --and the impact has been undeniably positive for the overall

health of the democratic process in both places.

 What would redistricting reform mean for representation for

communities of color?

Independent, nonpartisan redistricting can protect and strengthen

minority voting rights. CHANGE Illinois believes in redistricting that

ensures diverse communities are able to elect the candidates of their

choice. When redistricting reform took effect in California, the number

of majority-minority districts went up by 50%.

 Who supports redistricting reform?

Every major newspaper in Illinois, from Chicago to Carbondale. National

organizations like AARP and community groups representing minority

rights. Leaders of all stripes, from Democratic Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon, to

former Republican Gov. Jim Edgar, to Rev. Dr. Byron Brazier, to Chicago

Public Schools Board of Education Vice President Jesse Ruiz, and many

others. Along with thousands of people like you across the state.

 What can I do to help fix the redistricting process?  Sign up to become a CHANGE Agent and stay in the loop about upcoming opportunities to take action.