Double Crossed

Voters need to not only vote but check and vet candidates running for elected offices. With Blacks being the majority in Monroe, LA, one would think that more tax dollars would be spread equally in City Council Districts 3, 4, and 5 and Monroe City Schools Districts 4, 5, 6, and 7 due to the needs of those most at risk. One would think Monroe City School Board members would show more empathy and allocate more resources to those schools with the most vulnerable student populations to help enhance student achievement. The unfortunate truth is there is no tangible, sustainable support for those who need it most. Another unfortunate reality is that some Black elected officials have not addressed constituents' concerns because they are too occupied being controlled by others who show no interest in progression for the disadvantaged. It’s shocking that there’s no accountability; it's especially alarming that leaders are allowing the redistricting of neighborhoods into different voting districts without voters' awareness and input. Voter suppression through redistricting is not new and has happened many times before. The most pressing question is how and why it is happening. One can presume it is being done to funnel funding and resources out of the path of those who need it most. How long will that continue, and how long will elected officials continue to double-cross their own communities? Voting can help equal the playing field, but candidates must stand on legitimate campaign promises and advocate for their voters! Use your vote wisely or risk tying a hungry dog to the smokehouse who eats scrapes only to watch angrily as the meat is given to others.