Press Release
For Immediate Release
September 9, 2024
Contact: David Lopez, Executive Director, Somos Spring Branch
Email: [email protected]
Somos Spring Branch Emphasizes the Critical Importance of the Elizondo vs. Spring Branch ISD Federal Voting Rights Trial
HOUSTON, TX — Today marks the beginning of a significant moment in the fight for equitable representation as the Elizondo vs. Spring Branch Independent School District federal voting rights trial begins. This case challenges the at-large voting system in Spring Branch ISD, which has long been criticized for diluting the voting power of underrepresented communities, particularly Latino voters. Somos Spring Branch, a grassroots community organization focused on equity and justice, underscores the broader significance of this trial—not just for the Latino community, but for the entire Spring Branch community.
The end of a fully at-large voting system is critical for restoring trust in our local democratic process. The current system has allowed for the persistent underrepresentation of a community that comprises a significant portion of the district’s population. This has fostered deep feelings of alienation and mistrust among voters, and the consequences have been felt across Spring Branch in the form of disengagement, disenfranchisement, and disillusionment with the governance of our schools.
"Today is a turning point for our community," said David Lopez, Executive Director of Somos Spring Branch. "The trial offers us the chance to restore integrity to our local democracy by creating a system where every vote truly matters. By moving away from a fully at-large system, we can begin to heal the divisions created by years of inequitable representation."
Historically, at-large voting systems have been used across the United States to limit the electoral influence of minority populations, as seen in similar lawsuits such as Thornburg v. Gingles in North Carolina, which ultimately led to changes that ensured more equitable representation. The significance of ending such systems has been well-documented. A victory in this trial would not only be a win for democracy in Spring Branch ISD but a model for other districts facing similar challenges.
Civil rights activist Dolores Huerta, who co-founded the United Farm Workers movement, once said, "We must use our lives to make the world a better place to live, not just to acquire things. That is what we are put on the earth for." Her words remind us that this lawsuit is not just a legal battle, but a moral one—a fight for a community where everyone has a fair say in shaping the future of our schools and our children's education.
A decision in favor of reforming the electoral system in Spring Branch ISD would allow for a school board that more accurately reflects the diversity of the community it serves. This would pave the way for more inclusive decision-making processes, helping to address the unique needs of every neighborhood and family within the district. Studies have shown that communities with proportional and representative governance systems see higher levels of civic participation and greater trust in their institutions.
"Creating a more equitable electoral system would allow residents to see themselves represented in those making decisions about our schools and children," added Lopez. "It would open doors to more robust civic engagement, as people regain confidence that their voices and their votes truly matter. This trial is about justice, accountability, and the future of democracy in Spring Branch ISD."
The outcome of this trial has the potential to set a precedent for how marginalized communities can reclaim their rightful place in shaping the future of their schools and communities. Somos Spring Branch calls on the entire district to recognize that reforming the electoral system will benefit everyone by fostering trust, collaboration, and healing for all.
About Somos Spring Branch
Somos Spring Branch is a community organization focused on advancing equity and social justice for the Latino population and all marginalized communities in Spring Branch, Houston. We work to empower local residents through grassroots organizing, advocacy, and civic engagement, aiming to create a more inclusive and representative community.
Statement from Somos Spring Branch on the Elizondo vs. SBISD Trial
"As the trial of Elizondo vs. Spring Branch Independent School District begins, we stand in support of the efforts to address the inequities caused by the current at-large voting system. This case highlights the urgent need to reform an electoral process that has prevented full and fair participation from every corner of our community.
When we ensure that our school board represents the diversity of Spring Branch, we take an essential step toward restoring trust in our institutions. A system that allows for proportional representation ensures that every voice in our district is heard, from the longstanding families who built this community to the new families seeking a brighter future for their children.
At its heart, this case is about more than just voting rights; it is about healing the fractures that have divided our district. A favorable outcome in this trial will restore faith in the democratic process, ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of every family in Spring Branch, and begin a new chapter of unity, accountability, and equitable governance in our community.
Somos Spring Branch remains committed to advocating for justice, equity, and meaningful change in our district. We believe that this case represents an opportunity to build a better, more inclusive Spring Branch for all.”