NC House Bill 2 – How We Can Support

Last week, the North Carolina General Assembly passed a bill that eliminates local laws prohibiting LGBT protections.  First originating as a way to block Charlotte’s city council ordinance which would have allowed people who identify as transgender to utilize the public restroom that aligns with their gender, the new state law has broad impact and civil rights implications for many members of our NC State community.  

According to the News & Observer,  this new law prohibits local governments from expanding nondiscrimination to other protected classes. Currently, NC State law does not provide nondiscrimination protection for sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status.  This means that a student who identifies as transgender would be unable to utilize the locker room or restroom that corresponds to how that person identifies.   This legislation may also have a far-reaching impact for who can and cannot utilize a business or public space on the basis of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or status as a veteran.

The NC State Counseling Center acknowledges that each person encompasses multiple visible and invisible identities. We fully recognize the multicultural values upheld by our institution and seek to create a trusting and inclusive environment for all.  We strive to empower, educate, and enrich the lives of our students through emotional and psychological support. If you are feeling impacted by this legislation or want support in processing your reactions, please walk into the Counseling Center and schedule an appointment.  In addition, we can also provide support through discussion based outreach with your particular campus or student organization.  Lastly, do not hesitate to reach out to other campus resources such as the GLBT Center, The Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity, and the Diversity Directors in your respective colleges. For consultation for outreach planning please contact Angel Bowers (abjohns2@ncsu.edu) or PJ Adams.(pjadams@ncsu.edu)