HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/19/2024 Item 7a, Makekau
Beya Makekau <
To:E-mail Council Website
Subject:Agenda Item 7a. CA Voting Rights Act Reccomendation
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Dear Council,
I am writing to express my full support for the staff recommendation in response to the CVRA litigation.
While I understand that districting may have some community appeal, this approach is not in the best
interest of the Latinx community in San Luis Obispo. With the Latinx population comprising
approximately 18% of our city, moving to a district-based model risks further diluting the Latinx vote
rather than amplifying it.
I urge the Council to trust the expertise of legal counsel, who has engaged with key Latinx leaders over
the past year, and to recognize the equity-focused foundation of the staff recommendation. It is critical
to acknowledge that districting, if not aligned with the demographic realities of our city, can create a
misleading perception of increased voting power. In truth, it has the potential to fragment and diminish
the influence of underrepresented communities, in particular Latinx residents.
Council must prioritize equity in practice, not just in theory. This means adopting measures that ensure
Latinx voices are not only heard but are empowered within our electoral system. The recommendation
before you reflects thoughtful engagement and a commitment to genuine inclusion. I urge you to adopt
this path forward.
Thank you,
Beya
Dr. Beya Makekau
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Associate Vice President of DEI Strategic Planning & Networks
Office of University Diversity and Inclusion
Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407-0200
_________________________________________________________________
Direct: 805-756-7791
Office: 805-756-2250
Cal Poly's Pathway to Becoming a Hispanic-Serving Institution
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diversity.calpoly.edu/hsi
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