Civil Rights Leader Bishop William Barber Takes Gerrymandering Battle To Court

Although Bishop William J. Barber II, a Yale theologian, pastor, and civil rights advocate, may appear frail, he is gearing up for another significant struggle.On Friday, Barber, president of Repairers of the Breach, identified his new mission: contesting North Carolina’s newly drawn congressional map. This gerrymandering initiative is designed to enhance Republican representation for the upcoming midterm elections.The critical concern is the threat to democracy.During a joint press conference with Forward Justice, Barber announced plans for a statewide campaign against the map, which threatens to dissolve a Black congressional district. He hinted at a forthcoming lawsuit, but specifics remain undisclosed.Barber emphasized that the implications extend beyond congressional representation. He contends that such actions enable Republicans to bolster President Trump’s policies, threatening healthcare access and social safety nets. Echoing a pivotal moment in history, Barber reaffirmed his resolve to challenge this injustice through multiple avenues — uniting Black, white, and brown voices for democracy’s preservation.

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