The North Carolina Bathroom Bill (SB516) is Dead This Session!
May 7th - The Raleigh News & Observer is reporting that Senate Bill 516, that yours truly wrote a scathing op-ed about, will not be taken up by the Senate this session! SUCCESS!
The Sausage Factory on Jones Street
In North Carolina, concerns arise over the swift passage of bills like HB193, allowing concealed firearms in private schools, and HB636, which limits public school library books. Critics argue these decisions lack factual basis and public discourse, emphasizing the need for citizen advocacy to influence legislative actions and ensure representative governance.
NC Education Chief Fires Back at US DOEd About DEI
The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) submitted a letter to the U.S. Department of Education on April 22, 2025, detailing its compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. The letter outlines NCDPI's efforts to ensure nondiscrimination in educational programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. It emphasizes the department's commitment to equity, detailing policies, procedures, and training implemented to prevent discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. Additionally, the letter includes data on complaint resolutions and outlines steps taken to address identified issues, demonstrating NCDPI's dedication to fostering an inclusive educational environment.
On Hiatus Until May 19th
I am grateful to be selected for the Carey Business School’s Academy for Women and Leadership. Balancing this with my commitments at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School requires hard work, leading to the cancellation of social plans and advocacy efforts. I aim to graduate as a more confident and prepared leader.
Comments to House Education – K-12 Committee on HB 636
Paige Sullivan, a North Carolina parent, urges the committee to reconsider House Bill 636, which risks removing valuable educational materials from school libraries based on a limited number of objections. She emphasizes the importance of trust in educators, transparency, and diverse perspectives, advocating for a balanced approach that respects all parents and protects children's understanding of the world.
Summer of Advocacy 2025: Days 1 & 2 Wrap Up
On April 8th, I began my Summer of Advocacy 2025 by visiting the NC Legislature to engage with representatives about detrimental bills like H791 and S516. I met with Rep. Sarah Crawford and Sen. Jay Chaudhuri, emphasizing citizen involvement. I also attempted to speak with Sen. Overcash but was unsuccessful. I returned on April 9th for further discussions.
Op-Ed: Senator Overcash, You Know Me. Why Are You Erasing Me?
Paige Sullivan, a transgender resident of North Carolina and former classmate of Senator Overcash, expresses her concerns regarding bills SB 516 and SB 227. She highlights the harmful implications of these laws on transgender rights and historical education, urging the senator to choose compassion and fairness instead of restrictive legislation.
Fighting Back – Day 1 (Morning Thoughts)
On April 8th, I'm preparing for meetings with a district Representative and Senator, while hoping to connect with Senator Brad Overcash. I plan to leave an op-ed copy and closely monitor the bathroom bill's progress. Despite low expectations, the day aims to provide insight into political processes and foster future engagement.
NC Trans Residents: Change Your Documents – NOW!
If Senate Bill 516 and House Bill 791 are passed, changes to birth certificates and driver's licenses may not be available after October 1, 2025. Currently, both can be updated with proper documentation, including the NC DL 300 for driver’s licenses and a Birth Certificate Modification Application, ideally accompanied by a notarized statement from a health care provider.
