For an opposing point of view, see “A ‘yes’ vote on April 21st is a slap in the face of rural Virginia by former Attorney General Jason Miyares and former U.S. Rep. Eric Cantor. For more information on the redistricting referendum, see our Voter Guide.
As a young man at the U.S. Naval Academy, I took an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. I upheld that oath as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Marine Corps. Since then, I have dedicated my life — as a pastor, community advocate and now as president of the NAACP Virginia State Conference — to ensuring that the promises of that Constitution apply equally to every citizen.
At its core, our democracy rests on a simple principle: voters choose their leaders. Leaders do not choose their voters. This essential tenet is under attack.
Across our nation, we witness politicians aligned with President Donald Trump attempting to redraw congressional maps mid-decade — not in response to community needs or census requirements, but to manipulate political outcomes. This tactic, driven by self-interest, threatens the very foundation of our democracy.
History teaches us that when electoral rules are altered for political advantage, it is often Black communities and other marginalized voters who suffer the consequences. We have seen how district lines can dilute voting strength, fracture neighborhoods and weaken representation. The tactics may evolve, but the impact remains the same; communities lose voice and power.
This is why the upcoming referendum on April 21 deserves our full attention. The NAACP Virginia State Conference endorses a “YES” vote on this proposal. It is crucial to understand that this measure is not permanent; it does not dismantle Virginia’s independent redistricting system. Instead, it grants temporary authority through 2030, allowing us to respond if other states redraw their congressional maps mid-decade. Most importantly, it places the decision in the hands of Virginia voters.
Trust in our institutions hinges on transparency and fairness. When people believe that rules are being manipulated behind closed doors, confidence in democracy erodes. Now is the time for action, for organization and for a decisive “YES” vote before April 21.
Doing nothing is not a neutral stance. If other states alter their maps to influence political representation while Virginia stands by, our collective voice in Congress could be weakened through no fault of our own.
The question before us transcends party lines; it is about parity. It is about ensuring that Virginia’s voters are not disadvantaged because politicians elsewhere choose to bend the rules. It is about protecting communities that have fought tirelessly for equal representation, so they do not see their hard-won gains quietly diminished.
As a man of faith, I believe that justice requires vigilance. As a former Marine officer, I believe leadership demands courage. And as a civil rights advocate, I believe democracy requires active participation.
This referendum gives Virginians the opportunity to make a decision for themselves. It does not impose change without consent. Instead, it asks the people of the commonwealth to weigh the circumstances and determine whether this temporary safeguard is warranted.
In moments like this, we are reminded that democracy is not self-executing. It depends on informed citizens who are willing to engage, study the facts and participate in shaping our shared future.
Early voting began Friday, and Election Day is April 21. I encourage Virginians of every background and political affiliation to examine this amendment carefully. Consider its temporary nature, its safeguards and what it means to ensure that Virginia’s representation is not undermined by decisions made elsewhere.
Fair representation is not merely a partisan value; it is a constitutional and moral obligation. Vote YES.
The Rev. Cozy Bailey Sr. is president of the NAACP Virginia State Conference.