So I'm from North Carolina. I'm not going to lie, I kind of like the unpredictable weather and the summer heat. Of course I love the beach, Raleigh, and the mountains too. I think North Carolina is a state with a lot to offer. We have the Carolina Panthers, we definitely make ourselves known in the world of college basketball, and we have a lot of concerts and fun things to do.
But I don't love everything my state chooses to stand for. I don't support HB2. I don't approve of the way we treat our teachers or handle education in our state. I didn't vote for Donald Trump. So when I tell people I'm from North Carolina, why do I hear "shame on you" constantly? Why is shame placed on our entire state?
"We" are a state divided.
I don't believe there is an "us" as a cohesive state anymore. Most of us are so far apart on so many issues that we don't deserve to be generalized. I'll proudly claim that I've lived in North Carolina most of my life, and I'll proudly tell you that I don't support much of anything that North Carolina has decided to do lately.
The opposite is true as well. There are proud North Carolinians who think HB2 is a groundbreaking idea to keep us all safe, that our education system is fine and our teachers are treated well, and they think Trump will truly "Make America Great Again." If we are so divided, as opposite as night and day in some cases, why are we treated as one?
Protesting North Carolina?
I get it. If I didn't live here, I would wonder what in the world is going on here too. But I do live here, and being on the inside looking out offers a whole lot more insight into what's going on. We battle on the most basic issues of education and something as simple as what bathroom someone should get to use. I think the issues run much deeper than these simple things, and it's hard to understand that if you only get a glimpse into our state.
I commend artists for saying that they don't support HB2, I really do. I think a stand should be made against it, and I think it needs to be said aloud many times for all to hear. However, I also know those who don't support the law, and even fight tirelessly against it, are suffering too.
We are unique.
I love going to concerts. I don't mind paying money to support my favorite artists and bands because I think it's worth it. But I don't love that they think this is who I am too just because I live here. What if artists said "I don't support HB2, but I choose to perform this concert for those North Carolinians who don't support it either. Those who are vocal. Who write to their congressmen, and talk about the law with anyone who is willing to talk about it. This concert is for those aren't afraid to take a stand, and don't think it is right either."
I think making a statement and taking a stand involves more than just avoiding our state. I think it involves praising those who live here and are brave enough to fight for what we believe. Being an ally involves encouragement and involvement. I'm from North Carolina and I'm proud of that, but I don't believe in this.
