Moral Mondays are protests that started three years ago in North Carolina as a response to actions by the government. In 2012, NC elected Republican governor Pat McCrory. Since taking office, McCrory has signed into law a number of bills that have generated controversy, specifically the House Bill 2. On Monday May 16, there was a protest led by NAACP President William Barber outside of the Legislative building.
The House Bill 2 bans people from using public restrooms that do not correspond with their biological sex, regardless of gender identity or transgender status. After its passage, North Carolina has faced high criticism from major businesses, civil liberties groups, and LGBT advocates. Musicians such as Demi Lovato, Nick Jonas, Pearl Jam, Bruce Springsteen, and Boston have cancelled concerts in NC solely because of HB2. Multiple companies have also canceled their plans to expand in the state.
Police estimated about 450 protesters of every race, gender, religion, and sexual orientation. Sarah Myers, a junior at Leesville, attended Moral Monday. ““It didn’t matter what you looked like, who you prayed to, how old you were, or who you liked romantically. It was such an accepting environment. It was incredible to see differences put aside for the greater good,” said Myers.
Eleven protesters were arrested inside the building after 5:00 p.m. being charged with second-degree trespassing and violation of legislative building rules. “More people are at every protest, and it really shows the strength behind the movement. With so many people standing behind this, it really empowers and encourages fighting the bill,” added Myerz
In the past, Moral Mondays have targeted everything from voting rights, teacher pay, and unemployment compensation, but with House Bill 2 making national headlines, it seems it will be a popular topic for future protests.
