Press Release • December 14, 2022
For Immediate Release
Nate Fischer | Equality NC | nate@equalitync.org
RALEIGH – Today, a group of out LGBTQ+ elected officials and their allies released a statement rebuking anti-LGBTQ+ violence and hate.
Today's statement comes at a crucial juncture. According to a recent GLAAD report, this year has seen over 120 threats or acts of violence against drag events alone – including at least 10 in North Carolina, topping the list. (Since the publication of that report, we've already seen several more threats against pride and drag events). Our communities have been the target of domestic terrorism all around the country this year, from Idaho to Wilmington. And we've experienced a frightening ratcheting up of violence against the LGBTQ+ community, with the tragic attack on Club Q in Colorado. The attack earlier this month on Moore County's electrical grid may also fall in this pattern.
Kendra R. Johnson (she/her), Equality NC Executive Director, said:
At a time when our communities are vulnerable, we're so pleased to see the strong support for our rights from elected officials, especially those who are a part of our own LGBTQ+ community. It's crucial that our elected officials speak out against the hatred being spewed at marginalized communities – our people deserve safety and respect.
The situation for our communities is dire – enough is enough.
For press inquiries, please contact:
Jillian Johnson (she/her), Council Member, City of Durham
Damon Seils (he/him), Mayor, Town of Carrboro
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Equality North Carolina builds LGBTQ+ power through advocacy, education, and uplifting the stories of queer and trans North Carolinians in pursuit of racial and social justice. www.equalitync.org
