All power is inherent in the people, and all free governments are founded on their authority and instituted for their peace, safety, happiness and the protection of property. For the advancement of these ends, they have at all times an inalienable and indefeasible right to alter, reform or abolish their government in such manner as they may deem proper.
– Kentucky Constitution, Bill of Rights, Section 4.

Harlan County Kentucky, the place of my birth and upbringing, has been a dealt a poor hand in our state legislature. Harlan is divided into two districts, 87 and 84, in the states House of Representatives. In these districts, Bell County (87) and Perry County (84) contain their entirety in the districts. This leaves the residents of Harlan unfairly represented and at a disadvantage in elections. While Bell and Perry county have the whole of their populations in each election, Harlan only has half in either district. I am calling on the residents of Harlan to address this issue of misrepresentation. How can we the people of Harlan begin to make progress if we have no voice?

This is a short summary of a essay I wrote on this topic. The whole essay can viewed at https://www.booksie.com/532584-a-county-without-voice .

This is not just a issue for Harlan County, but other counties in Kentucky and across the nation. For this petition I am focusing on my home, Harlan County, but national support is welcome. Make this issue known and lets work together to see positive reform and progress!

The ones who can help the most in this is Governor Matt Bevin and Kentucky's General Assembly. To address this issue properly Kentucky's constitution will need amending, as it lays the guidelines for legislative districts.