After racial gerrymandering ruling, residents can get involved in Miami's new district map

A federal judge has ruled against the City of Miami, rejecting its attempt to keep a district map accused of racial gerrymandering.

The judge's decision came after community groups, represented by the ACLU of Florida, argued that the map was drawn based on race.

The City's appeal to postpone enforcement of the order pending the appeal was denied by the judge.

Community groups have created their own proposed maps for Miami's districts, aiming to establish logical district shapes using natural boundaries like the Miami River and major roadways

The proposed maps will be presented to the community during a public forum, allowing residents to provide input

Reverend Nathaniel Robinson III, a plaintiff and pastor, stressed that the lawsuit is about ensuring fair representation for all residents of Miami, not just a specific neighborhood

The City and the plaintiffs have been directed to engage in mediation before June 23 in order to reach an agreement on a new map

If an agreement cannot be reached through mediation, Miami must submit its own map that aligns with the U.S. Constitution by June 30

The court has set a deadline of August 1 for implementing a non-racially gerrymandered map, ensuring sufficient time before the local elections in November

The goal of the process is to establish a fair and equitable district map that represents all residents of Miami without racial bias.