As a Boston City Councilor At-Large, I am compelled to address the recent Home Rule Petition filed by Councilors Ruthzee Louijeune and Liz Breadon, which seeks to cancel the special election in District 7. This move would deny residents of Roxbury, Dorchester, Fenway, and the South End their rightful representation at City Hall. District 7, Boston’s largest Black community, has historically faced underrepresentation and economic challenges. Denying them a voice now only perpetuates this injustice.

Two years ago, when Councilor Kenzie Bok resigned, we promptly held a special election in District 8. Sharon Durkan and one other candidate ran, and voters in Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Fenway, Kenmore, the West End, and Mission Hill had their voices heard — even though it was already an election year. Why should District 7 be treated any differently?

Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson has agreed to plead guilty to federal corruption charges, with a hearing scheduled for May 5. If she resigns before May 8, the law mandates a special election. Delaying this process undermines our democratic principles and the trust of our constituents.

Concerns about cost and voter fatigue are valid but surmountable. The estimated cost of holding a preliminary and general special election in Boston is at least $1.5 million, not including additional costs. However, the value of ensuring that all residents have representation in city governance outweighs these expenses. The timeline outlined by my colleagues assumes voter confusion and administrative strain, but what I hear from constituents in District 7 is clear: they want a voice at the table now, not in 2026.

While I acknowledge the challenges faced by our Election Department, including the recent state-ordered overhaul due to ballot shortages and communication failures during the 2024 election, these issues should not be used as justification to deny District 7 residents their rightful representation. The presence of a state-appointed receiver through 2026 aims to address and rectify these systemic problems, ensuring that future elections are conducted efficiently and fairly. It’s imperative that we do not let past administrative shortcomings disenfranchise our communities further.

I urge my colleagues to join me in upholding the democratic process and ensuring that every Bostonian has a voice. District 7 deserves representation now — not in 2026.

Erin Murphy is a Boston City Councilor At-Large.