In 1987, a U.S. District Court determined that Springfield’s city government was not representative of its citizens. Judge Harold Baker ruled that the city’s at-large system of electing council members diluted the voting power of blacks, which directly violated the Voting Rights Act. This decision resulted in the institution of Springfield’s aldermanic system of governance that is still in place today. This special event includes a panel discussion featuring Frank McNeil, William Washington, Rudolph Davenport, Howard Veal, Archie Lawrence, Larry Golden and Don Craven, and is moderated by former alderwoman Gail Simpson. Panelists will reflect upon the question, “Has the change in Springfield’s form of government improved the overall condition of the citizens it was intended to represent?” The “Commemoration of Springfield Aldermanic Government” is free and open to the public. Questions regarding this event can be directed to 391-6323.
In 1987, a U.S. District Court determined that Springfield’s city government was not representative of its citizens. Judge Harold Baker ruled that the city’s at-large system of electing council members diluted the voting power of blacks, which directly violated the Voting Rights Act. This decision resulted in the institution of Springfield’s aldermanic system of governance that is still in place today. This special event includes a panel discussion featuring Frank McNeil, William Washington, Rudolph Davenport, Howard Veal, Archie Lawrence, Larry Golden and Don Craven, and is moderated by former alderwoman Gail Simpson. Panelists will reflect upon the question, “Has the change in Springfield’s form of government improved the overall condition of the citizens it was intended to represent?” The “Commemoration of Springfield Aldermanic Government” is free and open to the public. Questions regarding this event can be directed to 391-6323.