A state lawmaker in Tennessee called for Memphis to leave the state over a new congressional map favoring Republicans.
Democrat Rep. Antonio Parkinson said in a press release, “This is no longer simply about maps. This is about whether Memphis — a majority-Black economic engine for this state — is expected to continue contributing billions in tax revenue, culture, labor, and commerce while being systematically stripped of political power.”
“When a Black community gains enough political strength to elect representation, and the response is to divide that community into multiple districts, people understand exactly what is happening,” Parkinson stated, adding, “If this legislature no longer believes the people of Memphis deserve the ability to choose a representative who reflects their community, then at least have the courage to say it plainly. Do not hide behind maps and procedure. Let Memphis secede from the State of Tennessee. And I’m dead serious. Let my people go.”
According to the news release, the lawmaker is calling for a national debate on Memphis’ self-determination, scrutiny of Tennessee’s redistricting process, public hearings on racial representation, national media attention on Black-majority communities, and an assessment on whether or not Memphis’ interests are incompatible with the Tennessee political climate.
The threat of secession comes as Governor Bill Lee signed new congressional maps into law. The maps, released by GOP leadership in the state House and Senate, split Memphis into three Republican-leaning districts, removing Rep. Steve Cohen from a district he has held for nearly two decades. Davidson County, home to Nashville, would also be divided into multiple larger GOP-held seats.
