For Shame, North Carolina. For Shame.

North Carolina, famed for its Blue Ridge Mountains, booming tech sector, and vibrant culture, is now synonymous with backward policies. Recent legislation has eroded voting rights, targeted LGBTQ+ communities, underfunded schools, and ignored environmental crises. For shame, North Carolina. For shame.

Voter Suppression: Silencing Marginalized Voices

After the Supreme Court weakened the Voting Rights Act in 2013, North Carolina enacted one of the nation’s strictest voter ID laws. Courts repeatedly ruled these laws discriminatory—yet lawmakers persist, suppressing Black, Latino, and low-income voters. The goal? Tilting elections instead of winning fairly. For shame.

Anti-LGBTQ+ Laws: Harming Vulnerable Youth

The 2016 HB2 “bathroom bill” cost the state millions and embarrassed its reputation. Now, new bills attack transgender youth—banning sports participation and gender-affirming healthcare, despite overwhelming medical consensus that such care is lifesaving. Meanwhile, LGBTQ+ youth face soaring mental health crises. For shame.

Public Education Sabotaged

North Carolina ranks among the worst for teacher pay, pushing educators out of the profession. Instead of funding schools, lawmakers divert money to private vouchers. Meanwhile, they censor discussions on race, gender, and history, banning so-called “critical race theory” and books that reflect diverse experiences. For shame.

Ignoring Climate Change & Pollution

From the GenX water scandal to rising coastal erosion, North Carolina prioritizes corporate polluters over public health. Renewable energy faces roadblocks while hurricanes intensify and toxic chemicals taint drinking water. Future generations will inherit this mess. For shame.

A Path Forward: Demand Change

The shame lies not with North Carolinians but with leaders who value power over progress. Here’s how to fight back:
✔ Register & vote in every election
✔ Hold lawmakers accountable
✔ Support advocacy groups fighting for justice

North Carolina could lead the South—but only if its people demand better. Until then: For shame, North Carolina. For shame.

—NextMinuteNews