The ERA-NC Alliance announces a new sponsored “N.C. Equality Trailblazers” patch in partnership with the Girl Scouts of North Carolina
Together with the Girl Scouts of the N.C. Coastal Pines and our host, the Cape Fear Museum, the ERA-NC Alliance unveiled the new patch Sunday, Sept. 6 at the newly renovated location in downtown Wilmington. The standing exhibits there include five of our equality trailblazers from the lower Cape Fear.
Marla Barthen, co-president of the ERA-NC Alliance said, “The patch will showcase the ERA-NC Alliance’s slogan, ‘Equal Rights for All Y’all,’ attesting that the ERA protects all people. The Equal Rights Amendment was fully ratified in January 2020 and has been affirmed as the 28th Amendment by the American Bar Association and constitutional scholars. North Carolinians have long supported and led the way in the pursuit of equality. The N.C. Trailblazers project includes 40 trailblazers and famous locations throughout the state.”
“Girl Scouts are so excited to explore this really cool patch program that highlights Trailblazers who are all North Carolina women!” said Debora Todd, Senior Membership Director New Hanover County, Girl Scouts-N.C. Coastal Pines. “This patch program also encourages travel and adventure, as well as showcasing North Carolina history. I am delighted to watch our local Girl Scouts to discover our own local gems!”
Kate Baillon, Director, Cape Fear Museum said, “We’re excited to welcome Girl Scouts to the new Cape Fear Museum to discover the stories of remarkable trailblazing women with connections to our region—from artist Minnie Evans and tennis legend Althea Gibson to civil war nurse & educator Amy Bradley and educator Hannah Block—and even step onto our mini Thalian stage to perform like groundbreaking opera singer Caterina Jarboro. With more than 500 tickets already reserved it’s wonderful to see so much excitement around our Sunday event and the new Girl Scouts N.C. Equality Trailblazers patch that brings history to life and inspires the next generation of trailblazers.”
While current Girl Scouts can engage with the project and earn their patches, exploring the Equality Trailblazers across North Carolina will be a fun activity for Girl Scouts – and others – of all ages! Visit the NC Equality Trailblazers page to learn more.
A decade ago, Jessica Neuwirth’s groundbreaking book, Equal Means Equal, played an important role in the formation of the ERA-NC Alliance. Through her legal work and advocacy, Neuwirth made a powerful case for why the Equal Rights Amendment remains essential to achieving full constitutional equality. In case after case, her book documented the profound need for the ERA.