Here’s what were covering this week!👇

Celebrating Black History

Happy February y’all! It’s officially Black History Month and we’re kicking off this month by celebrating the work and sacrifice of our Black leaders, past, present and future.

Let’s take a moment to reflect on the legacy of trailblazers who have come before us, starting with Joseph McNeil and the Greensboro Four. Back in 1960, they made history with their courageous sit-in at Woolworth’s—sparking a revolution for civil rights that would resonate across our great nation. Their bravery laid down the groundwork for so many of us to stand up and demand our rights. Sadly, in 2026, more than 60 years later we see the same type of discriminatory practices used in the past are being used to block Blacks from equal rights again. 

We can’t forget Mel Watt, a dedicated Congressman and former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, known for his unwavering support of our communities. Additionally, G.K. Butterfield has been a significant figure in the fight for voting rights, tirelessly advocating for equitable access as a long-time Congressman, helping to ensure that our voices are always heard.

Now we have Supreme Court justice Anita Earls, whose commitment to justice and equality is unwavering. Throughout her career, she has championed civil rights and fought against systemic injustices, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. With her deep legal expertise and a demonstrated record of fairness, she brings a thoughtful perspective to the court. We look forward to re-electing her to our state Supreme Court in 2026.

We encourage you to celebrate your heroes on the timeline. We have created an easy to use template, simply drag and drop your hero’s photo, add their name and title and get to posting! 

You can access the Canva template here!

Protecting HBCUs

This year, the North Carolina State Board of Elections made the troubling decision to close early voting sites at the oldest HBCU in our state, McNeils alma mater North Carolina A&T. Along with other colleges across our state. This move jeopardizes access for young and Black voters, creating barriers that we simply cannot accept. 

But our young people are rising up—students are taking legal action against these closures, standing firm in their belief that every voice matters. Local communities are stepping up, too, organizing efforts to provide shuttles to off-campus polling locations and ramping up voter registration drives. It’s clear that when we stand together, we can inspire change and ensure that everyone has a seat at the table!

Voter suppression will never go unchecked, and as we think about those who fought long and hard within the party, we want to recognize Eva Clayton, who made history in 1992 as the first Black woman from North Carolina elected to Congress. Eva championed rural communities, always advocating for the development we so deserve. Then there’s Harvey Gantt, the first Black mayor of Charlotte, who ignited excitement among Democratic voters as he boldly ran for U.S. Senate not once, but twice! His vision reminds us of the power we hold when we come together.

First in the Nation

Our voices deserve the national stage! North Carolina has officially applied to become the first state in the nation to cast its vote in the 2028 Presidential primaries. Being first is about more than just a date on the calendar. It’s about power and influence. It means that the eyes and ears of national leaders will be focused right here in the Tar Heel State. 

Instead of being one of many voices, we would be the deciders. This move ensures that the issues we care about at our kitchen tables—from our schools to our economy—are the top priorities for every candidate in the race. We are a diverse, growing, and bold state. It’s time the road to the White House started right here at home. We’ll keep you updated as we move forward, but this is a massive step toward making sure North Carolina gets the representation and respect it deserves.

Unredacted

The allegations emerging from the newly released files regarding the relationship between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein are nothing short of horrifying. The disturbing nature of these claims raises serious questions about transparency and accountability that cannot be ignored. 

The American people deserve answers, and it is President Trump’s duty to address these allegations head-on. Trump owes the American people answers and we’re calling for a comprehensive and transparent investigation that protects the victims.

That’s a wrap for this week’s messaging!

As we celebrate this Black History Month, remember the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” Grab the graphics below and hit your timeline as we honor those who paved the way for us, and commit ourselves to continuing the fight for justice and representation.

See y’all on the internet!

—NCDP Digital

Click here to get this week’s graphics!

Stories To Boost:

WXII12: North Carolina applies to be first state in 2028 Democratic presidential primary

Sample Social Post: 

Did you know that North Carolina is one step closer to becoming one of the first states to hold an early primary in 2028?!

Upcoming:

Become an Anytime Canvasser for Anita Earls: Field Team Justice | Multiple Days

Field Team Justice is NCDP’s network of grassroots volunteers dedicated to electing Justice Anita Earls and our Court of Appeals candidates next year.

We’re launching our Anytime/Anywhere Canvassing program—an easy, flexible way to help voters learn about our judicial candidates. We’re putting powerful tools in your hands so you can grow this movement right from your own neighborhood.

2026 SEC Winter Meeting | February 7th 

The 2026 Winter SEC Meeting will be held on Saturday, February 7th. The meeting will be conducted via a hybrid format. Doors open at 8AM,  Expected Meeting Start Time at 9:30 AM. Get more information here!

Candidate Support Office Hours | Tuesdays 12PM-1PM

Candidates, we are here to help! Join our Candidate support office hours each Tuesday from 12-1pm. Speak with our staff individually and get tips on everything from voter statistics, Communications to website and more.

How to volunteer as an inside poll observer | Mondays 6PM- 7PM

We have elections in 2026 and need you to defend free and fair elections! Learn the ins and outs of being an indoor poll observer, where you’ll make sure that the new Republican precinct officials follow the law and that voters are allowed to cast their ballots in the March primary.

Registration Repair: Door Knocking | Multiple Days In February

This canvass is our chance to protect democracy at the door. Thousands of North Carolinians are on the NC Board of Elections “Registration Repair” list simply because their voter registration is missing an ID number. You’ll have powerful one-on-one conversations that clear up confusion, walk your neighbors through their options, and make sure voters’ voices are heard. This is a statewide, self-scheduled canvass!