There is much to update you on since we last e-mailed you regarding HB2 and lots of action items. We have so much we want to tell you that we have decided to break our update into two e-alerts. Here is Part I, and Friday we will send you Part II. Please do all you can to complete as many action items as possible and be sure to regularly pray for our great state in this regard. We thank you in advance for your attention to this matter.
State Legislature Adjourned for the Year with HB2 Intact
On June 30, 2016, we shared with you our concerns in regards to the possibility of HB2 being at risk through potential legislation, a draft filled with changes with which neither side was happy. We have great news! Our legislature adjourned for the year with HB2 intact, allowing only a few changes to HB2 — for people to bring claims for discrimination in state court in addition to federal courts. Thank you for the many prayers and phone calls you made to your legislators in regards to this threat. It clearly made a difference.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Defy HB2
On June 20, in direct violation and defiance to state law HB2, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) Superintendent Ann Blakeney Clark issued a directive to all CMS principals that students may go to the bathroom, locker rooms, etc. of the gender with which they currently identify. This shows no regard for the privacy and protection of the students! CMS Board of Education Board Chair, Mary McCray, stated that all CMS board members stand unanimously behind the CMS Superintendent Ann Clark’s plan. The citizens of North Carolina do not stand unanimously behind this directive.
Action Item: The board members need to hear from us! There is a Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board meeting Tuesday, August 9. The Board needs to hear from constituents regarding the decision either by phone, by e-mail or in person. Please contact the CMS Superintendent Ann Clark and the CMS Board of Education members before the August 9 school board meeting. Respectfully urge them to protect the privacy and safety for all 146,000 Charlotte-Mecklenburg school students.
- E-mail CMS Superintendent Ann Clark at a.clark@cms.k12.nc.us.
- Click here for the names and contact info for all the CMS Board of Education members.
Gov. Pat McCrory’s office responded to Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board. “Instead of providing reasonable accommodations for some students facing unique circumstances, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System made a radical change to their shower, locker room and restroom policy for all students,” said Graham Wilson, Press Secretary for McCrory. “This curiously-timed announcement that changes the basic expectations of privacy for students comes just after school let out and defies transparency, especially for parents. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System should have waited for the courts to make a decision instead of purposely breaking state law.”
Action Item: Although you have probably thanked/encouraged Gov. McCrory several times, please, once again, drop the governor a quick e-mail thanking him for his many courageous statements in support of HB2.
North Carolina Man Arrested for Indecent Exposure In Women’s Restroom
Shockingly, or not so much, in early July, a woman reported a man in a women’s restroom at a Charlotte restaurant.
North Carolina Values Coalition Launches New Campaign
Our coalition partner, the North Carolina Values Coalition, has launched a new campaign! We are asking for North Carolina families, businesses and educators to share their stories, answering brief questions about how they really feel about HB2 and how it has protected them. Are you a Family Member, Business Owner, or Educator? Click the appropriate one and take five minutes to share your story.
Action: Please pass this e-alert on to your church, friends and family right now. Thank you!
And Most Importantly, PRAY.
Continue to pray that truth and righteousness prevail. “But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” (Amos 5:24)
For Truth and Liberty in Christ,
Jill Coward
State Director
CWA of North Carolina
director@northcarolina.cwfa.org