All,
I wanted to first follow-up on a few action items brought up at our last meeting. Then put out a call for action on the Redistricting Maps.
1. As suggested, I have created a Facebook page for the Stonewall Democrats of SWFL. Please visit and LIKE us so we can keep you informed of all upcoming events.
2. We are moving forward with the state caucus to let them know that we will participate in their new "hosted" website. I will work with our web designer to get an automated redirect from our current site in place by the first of the year. That redirect will stay in place for 1 full year. Please visit the new home page at: http://glbtdemocrats.
3. I have requested the Lee County Democrats to continue our reservation for meeting space at their offices in the Alliance for the Arts. Our approved calendar for the 2012 / 2013 cycle has been set below. Please note that not all dates are on Sunday afternoon to open up more opportunities for those members who may have standing conflicts.
- February 11th, State Caucus Conference in Tampa (Saturday, 8:00AM - 5:00 PM)
- March 10th, Stonewall Membership Social Event (Saturday Evening, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM)
- April 8th, Alliance for the Arts Rm 103 (Sunday, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM)
- July 21st (Still TBD), State Caucus Conference (Saturday, 8:00AM - 5:00 PM)
- August 12th, Alliance for the Arts Rm 103 (Sunday, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM)
- September 9th, Alliance for the Arts Rm 103 (Sunday, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM)
- October 14th, Alliance for the Arts Rm 103 (Sunday, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM)
- December 9th, Alliance for the Arts Rm 103 (Sunday, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM)
4. During our 2010 elections, 63% of voters changed the redistricting requirements in our Florida Constitution to require the Legislature to draw new lines based on factors unrelated to partisan advantage or incumbent protection.
With the utmost contempt of the will of voters, Republicans held mock hearings over the summer to "hear our voice" about the 2012 re-apportionment. Now, having ignored the obvious will of the people, they have proudly released what can only be described as one of the most highly gerry-mandered set of maps anyone could imagine - virtually eliminating all seats held by Democratics, while avoid placing even one, single Republican incumbent at risk. Following their "business as usual" modus operandi and thumbing their nose at the will of the voters, it is clear Florida Republicans have worked hard to protect their interests.
Typical of the official party of the 1% which has so outraged our country and resulted in the Occupy Movement. The good news is that there is still time for change and your legislature has opened numerous lines of communication to make it easy for us to continue to speak our voice against the proposed maps. I urge everyone on the list to review the proposed map links below and then call or email the two committees with your comments.
The Senate Reapportionment Committee can be called toll-free at (855) FLA-MAPS, or emailed:
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
The House Reapportionment Committee can be called <Not Toll-Free> at (850) 488-3928, or emailed: mydistrictbuilder@
Proposed U.S. House Map: http://www.flsenate.gov/
Proposed FL Senate Map: http://www.flsenate.gov/
Proposed FL House Maps: http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/
The earlier and more frequently we let them know our dissatisfaction, the better chance we have of creating change while these maps are still in development.
John Hawkins, President Stonewall Democrats of SW Florida
Director Region 4, Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus
Director Region 4, Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus
Executive Director, Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus
