On Black Friday: Gratitude through Community Action. November 28, 2025
- Marilyn Carter
- Nov 28, 2025
- 2 min read
I AM THANKFUL TO LIVE IN A COUNTY WHERE WE STAND WITH OUR IMMIGRANT COMMUNITY. |
On November 18, in the face of aggressive federal immigration action in our region, Orange County and our municipalities together issued a statement to denounce "actions that sow fear among community members, undermine our local community safety efforts, and infringe on the human rights of our most vulnerable friends and neighbors".
That day, I proudly supported the Latine Leaders Joint Statement In Solidarity With Our Immigrant Community Across North Carolina.
Links to the full text of both statements follow.
These actions inspire gratitude and determination. Although federal agents appear to have departed our region, the ripple effects on the lives of community members linger. We must remain vigilant in our support to ensure that everyone feels safe and valued in our community. |
I AM ALSO GRATEFUL THAT OUR COMMUNITY STEPPED UP TO PROVIDE FOOD AID WHEN SNAP BENEFITS STOPPED.
In October, the White House withheld SNAP contingency funding during the Federal shutdown.
On November 6, the Board of County Commissioners took action and voted to provide emergency financial assistance to community food providers, including PORCH Chapel Hill-Carrboro, PORCH Hillsborough and others.
These organizations sprang into action the following weekend to implement emergency food distribution events to over 1000 families. In addition, the Orange County Democratic Party collected food in November to replenish our local food banks.
At McDougle Middle School with Mayor Barbara Foushee and PORCH Chapel-Hill Carrboro Board Chair Lenore Jones-Peretto for their Emergency Food Distribution on Nov. 8.
With Hillsborough Town Commissioner Meaghun Darab at PORCH Hillsborough's Emergency Food Distribution on Nov. 8.
While the Federal government shutdown has ended and SNAP benefits are again flowing, benefits were reduced to 65% of normal in November, impacting food security for nearly 9000 Orange County residents.
The policies of this Administration and the majority in our NC Legislature continue to impact those who are most in need.
In the weeks and months ahead, our collective advocacy will be critical to pressure policymakers at the state and federal level to shift course. In addition, our actions to encourage voter registration and education will be crucial in advance of the March 3, 2026 primary election. |
Together, we will continue to focus on the well-being of Orange County residents. I welcome your feedback at marilyncarterforoc@gmail.com.
Orange County Commissioner
