We’ve never been here. A society ready to eliminate discrimination. It’s hard to believe, considering what our nation has been through; but here we are. The coming generation of Americans will be the first not to endure or perpetuate slavery or institutional inequality of rights, nor to know or love anyone who has. Those evils will become history to be studied rather than first-hand accounts to be shared. That generation will have a clean slate, and we must protect that.
The “Ensure Nondiscrimination in Government Bill,” House Bill 799, marks a turning point in our epic journey toward equality and objectivity. This ambitious legislative move, championed by members of the North Carolina State House, sends a powerful message: equality, dignity, and nondiscrimination are not negotiable in North Carolina.
For too long, social barriers and malicious practices have hindered progress toward unbiased workplaces. While efforts have been made, the unfortunate reality is that discrimination, compelled speech, and divisive concepts continue to creep into hiring, training, and workplace policies. HB 799 confronts these issues head-on and sets a trajectory for the future.
The bill’s provisions seek to eliminate discrimination in government employment based on race, religion, ethnicity, or sex, while safeguarding freedom of expression and protecting employees from compelled speech on political or social matters. Additionally, the bill outright rejects divisive ideas, such as the inherent superiority or inferiority of certain groups; and stresses the importance of an individual’s ability and achievements, as well as the rule of law.
North Carolinians are often shocked to find that DEI programs, which masquerade as EEO laws, are often not what they are cracked up to be. The black community is low on the list of those who benefit and is only a priority for DEI program advocates when it comes to public debate. The public-facing discourse of the DEI industry falls far from the tree of its results.
Critics may argue that the bill stifles dialogue, but our national experience indicates that DEI-type initiatives are a major obstacle to dialogue. Discriminatory programs and cancel culture are common bedfellows that crush perspectives of faith, religious morality, traditional values, and (strangely) the heterosexual white male.
This legislation imagines something different. H799 doesn’t ban discussions or discourage diversity; it emphasizes that such dialogues should never be imposed or linked to hiring, promotions, or training. It protects the First Amendment while ensuring that the workplace remains a place of professionalism and mutual respect.
Why now? History shows that discrimination is an ever-present evil seeking new victims. Eliminating discriminatory programs will pave the way for a brighter future for government employees and our children. While opponents would prefer to negotiate who should be discriminated against next, I believe North Carolinians are ready to take a stand and declare that no one should be discriminated against for their race, sex, ethnicity, or faith.
In a society grappling with polarization, we have a unique opportunity to pivot and ensure that individuals are judged on their ability, achievements, and contributions. This bill champions equal treatment and affirms the belief that every person deserves dignity and respect, irrespective of their background or beliefs.
North Carolina can lead by example, demonstrating that progress is not about diminishing differences but about overcoming them. HB 799 is a call to action — a recognition that ensuring nondiscrimination isn’t just a policy objective; it’s a moral imperative. Let’s prioritize the fact that no one should be discriminated against for who they are.