Statement on the appointment of Joe Fain to the Redistricting Commission
Redistricting Justice for Washington stands in solidarity with groups and individuals who have expressed their support with survivors of sexual assault. We join in their demands for the commission’s accountability to speak to the issues of ethics and values of safety while implementing a code of conduct moving forward in the Redistricting process. Our coalition explicitly demands a code of conduct that takes into account the respect of coworkers and colleagues. Neither Joe Fain, nor anyone accused of sexual assault, fits that scope. The current commission must ask Commissioner Joe Fain to resign so that a new nominee may be selected that adheres to that standard of conduct.
Jessyn Farrell, a former state legislator says it well: “Survivors of sexual assault speak out at great personal cost and we need to create new norms in how we as a community respond. Rather than the reflexive response to protect those in power, we should stand with those who are willing to be courageous and do something that is terribly difficult. At the state and local level we need new processes that allow survivors to tell their story safely and that are independent of partisan politics.”
One of our coalition’s priorities for this year’s redistricting process is a demand to create transparent and accountable spaces for the community to participate. Our government works for us. It is an abuse of power to create an environment in which a particular group feels unsafe and makes it clear that partisan interests are prioritized over survivors.
By not taking action and speaking now, it creates a dangerous precedent for the future appointments of our overall state commission system. We must believe survivors, condemn the abuse of power manifested here, and encourage the participation of arguably one of the most crucial governance practices that determine the future of our districts and people. The work of this commission is critical to protecting Washingtonian’s rights, which makes it all the more vital that appointed commissioners have a proven track record of treating staff, coworkers, and constituents with dignity and respect. Joe Fain does not meet that standard. Commissioner Joe Fain must resign in order for the Senate’s Republican Caucus to select a new nominee better equipped to represent the interests of Washington voters, including survivors of sexual assault.
