Photo – News and Observer, Harry Lynch
Raleigh and Wake County are once again lagging behind other local governments in expressing support for their LGBTQ+ communities. We have reported on their reluctance to act in the past. Read here: Will Raleigh Ever Protect its LGBTQ+ Citizens? and here: Historic Victories in North Carolina
This time they are late to act on bills making their way through the NC Legislature.
On February 20, 2023, the Durham City Council unanimously passed a resolution declaring support for the LGBTQ+ community and decrying a pair of bills Republicans are advancing in the state legislature.
“The resolution references two pieces of pending legislation: Senate Bill 49, the so-called Parents’ Bill of Rights, and House Bill 43, a bill that would restrict gender-affirming treatment for minors, the Parents’ Bill of Rights bans curriculum addressing gender identity, sexual activity or sexuality in kindergarten through fourth grades. It also requires teachers to tell parents if students change their pronouns, potentially outing them.”
Read here: Durham City Council passes resolution against NCs ‘anti-LGBTQ’ bills
On February 27, 2023, the Durham County Commission followed the lead of the City Council and passed a resolution of their own.
“Wendy Jacobs fought back tears Monday night as she voted with her fellow Durham County commissioners to condemn proposed North Carolina legislation that critics say targets LGBTQ children. “For me, this is two of my three children. It is personal,” Jacobs said in sentences clipped by emotion. “I want to be able to celebrate that my daughter and her partner have become engaged and are going to be married, and I don’t want to have to live in fear because of their love for each other.” The resolution in solidarity with Durham’s LGBTQ community was unanimously passed by the Durham County Board of Commissioners.”
Read here: ‘It is personal’: Durham County joins city in condemning anti-LGBTQ legislation
It’s time for Raleigh and Wake County to join their progressive sisters to the north and pass resolutions of their own.
These two bills may not pass the legislature. Governor Cooper may ultimately veto them if they do pass. And, the vetoes may withstand Republican attempts to override them.
But, in any case, the LGBTQ+ residents of Raleigh and Wake County deserve to hear full-throated support from their elected leaders instead of the timid silence they are being presented.
Livable Raleigh Editorial Team
If you appreciate the kind of reporting we bring to you
|
Please donate $10 or $20, Thanks for supporting |
 |