Equality NC Announces 2026 Advocacy Day in Raleigh; Focuses on Healthcare Access

RALEIGH, NC – Equality NC, the nation’s oldest statewide organization dedicated to LGBTQIA+ rights, has announced its 2026 Advocacy Day, set to take place on Tuesday, April 28 at the North Carolina General Assembly. This year’s mobilization focuses on protecting LGBTQIA+ healthcare and improving access to HIV prevention and treatment in the face of ongoing legislative challenges.

Over the last several years, LGBTQIA+ North Carolinians have faced a wave of legislative attacks. From bills banning gender-affirming care to those blocking reproductive healthcare, the NC GOP has prioritized political agendas over the health and safety of the community. Equality NC is organizing this day of action to send a clear message: where you live should never determine the care you can access.

Event Details

What: 2026 Equality NC Advocacy Day
When: Tuesday, April 28 @ 8:30 AM
Where: NC General Assembly, Raleigh, NC
Register: https://givebutter.com/enc_advocacy_day_2026

This year’s event is dedicated to the memory of Aron Johnson, former Organizing Director at Equality NC. A cornerstone of the movement, Johnson was known for building a foundation for justice designed to uphold the community for generations. While the movement mourns his recent passing, his impact and passion will serve as the catalyst for this year’s "speaking truth to power."

Equality NC aims to provide both seasoned advocates and newcomers with grassroots training to ensure every participant feels confident making their voice heard. The day is designed to put a human face on the consequences of policy decisions.

"The right-wing extremists in the General Assembly can talk about our lives all they want, but they don’t see us. They don’t hear us," Eliazar Posada-Orozco, Jr., Executive Director, Equality NC stated. "We are heading to Raleigh to show them the real lives impacted by their decisions."

Equality NC invites all community members and allies to join the movement in Raleigh to fight for a future where healthcare is a right, not a political tool.

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Equality North Carolina is the nation's oldest statewide organization committed to securing rights and protections for the LGBTQIA+ community. We aim to ensure that every North Carolinian sees themselves reflected in this movement, working together to create a safer, more equitable world for all marginalized individuals. Together, we can build a better North Carolina.