FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - The League of Women Voters of Wake County Announces Winners of Fair Maps Art Contest
Raleigh, North Carolina -- October 4, 2021 --
The League of Women Voters of Wake County is pleased to announce two winners in our Fair Maps Art Contest to raise awareness of redistricting issues in North Carolina. Winners received cash prizes.
The two winners:
1st Place: Elizabeth Trefney, of Raleigh – “Real Maps Real Voices”
When asked what she most wants viewers to take away from her piece, Trefney said "That your voice is so powerful and that you carry the team. Literally, you carry everyone with your activism whether you’re just writing about it to your friends and family, or in the pandemic online like this online art contest. Whatever you’re doing to draw attention to this, your voice matters and you are important and you are heard. I’m confident that what you do makes a difference. Again, you’re the most powerful bridge."
2nd Place: Anna Podris, of Raleigh – “Democracy is Rooted in Fair Voting Districts”
On how her work represents the importance of fair maps, Podris stated that, "You see there are lots of different types of people and then the roots. It’s like we all have roots here and this is our home and we’re living here together. Everyone is going to be looking out for their own interest, but they need to be thinking about other people’s interests too when they vote. Not just themselves. Because really redistricting is the root of the problem. Because without fair districts we can’t get anything done that we want to do, or that anyone wants to do. You can’t have your voice heard."
These original works are inspired by the League’s belief that voting districts—which the legislature will draw this year—should be fair. Those who draw the maps should avoid partisan politics in the process; that process should provide an abundance of transparency and ample opportunities for public input. The contest fits with LWV-Wake’s mission to educate voters and advocate for a healthy democracy by encouraging informed and active participation in government.
Learn more at
www.lwvwake.org/RedistrictingBlog
About The League of Women Voters of Wake County
The League of Women Voters of the United States was founded by suffragists in 1920, just six months before the 19th amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified. The League of Women Voters of Wake County convened its first meeting on September 27, 1920 and celebrates its 101st anniversary this year. It is and always has been a grassroots nonpartisan organization dedicated to encouraging citizens’ participation in government and their understanding of important issues through education and advocacy. The League of Women Voters neither endorses nor opposes political parties or candidates.
Learn more at
Cheryl Tung
President, LWV-Wake
president@lwvwake.org
Jenny Kotora-Lynch
Communications Director, LWV-Wake
communications@lwvwake.org