How Gerrymandering and Residential Segregation Impact Black Voters in North Carolina
Camille Vereen
JD Clement Early College High School
11th Grade
The Blurred Lines of Politics
Research Question
How does the interaction between residential segregation and gerrymandering alter the political representation and voting power of Black communities in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, residential segregation and gerrymandering alter the political representation and voting power of Black communities. By consolidating their votes into fewer districts, these practices result in underrepresentation and diminished electoral influence. This consolidation exposes the underlying disparities and systemic inequities.
Thesis Statement
Background
“Negroes have shown less capacity for government than any other race of people. No independent government of any form has ever been successful in their hands.”
Post-Civil War Prejudice
Overthrow of biracial government
Jim Crow Voting Barriers
Wilmington, NC Insurrection
Poll Tax + Literacy Tests
Andrew Johnson of North Carolina 17th US President
“How many bubbles are in a bar of soap?”
1898
Key Findings
Historical and Contemporary Impact of Residential Segregation
Redlining and discriminatory zoning have entrenched segregation, marginalizing Black communities in North Carolina.
Cities like Durham and Raleigh still show these historical inequities, affecting education, employment, and healthcare.
Effects of Gerrymandering on Political Representation
NC District 12, the ‘I-85 District,’ was created to increase minority representation in Congress.
Supreme Court cases (Shaw v. Reno, Rucho v. Common Cause) address racial and partisan gerrymandering but don’t fully resolve its impacts.
Residential Segregation and gerrymandering together exacerbate racial disparities by manipulating voting outcomes and reinforcing historical inequalities.
Gerrymandering, reverse discrimination
Four lawsuits later, some conservative groups argued that District 12 discriminated against non-minorities, claiming that their votes were overshadowed by minority voters within the district, who were characterized as 'mostly democratic.'
Key Findings
Historical and Contemporary Impact of Residential Segregation
Redlining and discriminatory zoning have entrenched segregation, marginalizing Black communities in North Carolina.
Cities like Durham and Raleigh still show these historical inequities, affecting education, employment, and healthcare.
Key Findings
Effects of Gerrymandering on Political Representation
NC District 12, the ‘I-85 District,’ was created to increase minority representation in Congress.
Supreme Court cases (Shaw v. Reno, Rucho v. Common Cause) address racial and partisan gerrymandering but don’t fully resolve its impacts.
Residential Segregation and gerrymandering together exacerbate racial disparities by manipulating voting outcomes and reinforcing historical inequalities.
Gerrymandering
Reverse Discrimination
Four lawsuits later, some conservative groups argued that District 12 discriminated against non-minorities, claiming that their votes were overshadowed by minority voters within the district, who were characterized as 'mostly democratic.'
Thank You for Listening!
Conclusion & Relevance
2024 is the first year newly drawn congressional districts maps will be used Elections
Link to Register to Vote
Camille Vereen | Linkedin
One of many ways to combat gerrymandering is ensuring that everyone votes to have an impact.
If you are 16 or older, you can pre-register or register to vote. Scan the QR code to start!