Built By Us

In this special Women's History Month episode of Built By Us, we sat down with Julia Hawes, Communications Director at Democracy North Carolina, for a candid conversation on Women's History Month. Hear from Julia directly as she reflects on the women who inspire her, the role of Women's History Month in the fight for social justice, and the nuances of what being a woman means to her.Support the showFollow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

Voter fraud. It's the go-to excuse for restrictive voting laws, but how big of a problem is it really? In this episode, we sit down with Communications Manager, Joselle Torres, to break down the SAVE Act, a bill that claims to protect elections but could actually strip voting rights from millions. From costly documentation barriers to harmful voter purges, we unpack how this bill could upend voter registration as we know it...especially for young voters, people of color, and those who've changed their names. Tune in to learn what's really at stake and how you can take action to protect our freedom to vote.Support the showFollow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

Black History Month may be coming to a close, but Black history is lived, made, and studied every day of the year. In this encore episode, we revisit our conversation with Dr. Ajamu Amiri Dillahunt on the power of understanding the past, the importance of internationalism, and our deep connections to the people. Join Alyssa and Taylor as they discuss Truthful and Revolutionary history with Ajamu — because Black history doesn't end in February.Support the showFollow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

As new legislation and political rhetoric fuel fear and uncertainty in immigrant communities, it's more important than ever to uplift the voices of those on the front lines. In this encore episode of Built By Us, former Democracy Summer communications friendtern Zainab Adamou-Mohamed interviews Yahtrip Abdelgadir, a refugee community organizer with Church World Service Greensboro. Together, they discuss the unique experiences of first-generation immigrants and their critical role as changemakers, storytellers, and advocates for justice. At a time when immigrant communities are under attack, this conversation is a reminder of their power, resilience, and impact in the movement. Tune in.Support the showFollow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

In this special episode of Built By Us, we revisit powerful voices from past guests as they share what Black History Month means to them. From personal reflections to the ongoing fight for justice, tune in for a quick but meaningful conversation on history, legacy, and the future of Black civic power.Support the showFollow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

In this moving episode of Built By Us, we spotlight the remarkable journey of Linda Sutton, a trailblazer in justice and equity from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. As a regional organizer for Democracy North Carolina, Linda shares her decades-long dedication to voter registration, labor organizing, and environmental justice. From her upbringing near tobacco factories to her leadership in unions and community coalitions, Linda's story exemplifies resilience, love, and the fight for a better tomorrow.This episode is a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy and the countless individuals, like Linda, who continue to carry the torch of justice.Support the showFollow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

In this candid conversation, we explore the complexities of identity, from the power of labels in connecting to humanity, to the challenges of navigating intersectional marginalization. Our guests discuss the covert policing of gender and sexuality, how misgendering devalues individuals, and offer practical ways to be an ally in a world that often weaponizes our identity.Tune in to 'Notes on PRIDE', released in honor of Durham Pride Celebrations this past weekend. Support the showFollow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

In this episode, DeMonte shares his deep connection to the southeast region of North Carolina, discussing its unique charm, challenges, and the changes shaping its future.Democracy NC's Southeastern region includes Cumberland, Scotland, Robeson, Columbus, and Hoke county communities. Tune in as we explore it's rich culture, history, and evolving landscape through the eyes of DeMonte Alford, Southeast Regional Managing Organizer here at Democracy NC. Discover what makes Southeast North Carolina a special place and how it continues to inspire growth and innovation. Support the showFollow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

Chapel Hill has a housing problem, and solutions must be created soon. In this episode, Democracy Summer communication friendtern Eden Aulis-Campos investigates the current housing crisis that infiltrates the Chapel Hill community. To obtain deeper insight, Eden sits with Chapel Hill Mayor, Jess Anderson, and Affordable Housing and Community Connections Director Sarah Viñas. Jess Anderson assumed the role of Chapel Hill's mayor in November 2023 following two terms on the Chapel Hill Town Council. Previously, she held the position of Mayor Pro Tempore from 2017 to 2019, chaired the Council Committee on Economic Sustainability from 2021 to 2023, and represented the Town on the Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness board. Sarah Viñas has been with the Town of Chapel Hill since 2011, holding various positions in the Manager's Office, Public Works, and Affordable Housing and Community Connections. With nearly a decade of experience in the non-profit sector, she has dedicated much of her career to community development and anti-poverty work.Support the Show.Follow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

In our Built By Faith series, we're sitting down with faith leaders from across the state to talk about the intersections of Faith, Justice, and Advocacy.In this episode, you'll hear from Abby Lublin, Executive Director of Carolina Jews for Justice. Abby believes in the power of story to transform conflict, build empathy, and act collectively.  Abby believes that here in North Carolina,  Jews belong in the fight for greater justice, organizing includes your best okra recipes, and that together, with trust and hustle, we can win what we need for all to thrive.Examine the complexities of Jewish identity, including its intersection with whiteness, democracy, and political dynamics.Support the Show.Follow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

In our Built By Faith series, we're sitting down with faith leaders from across the state to talk about the intersections of Faith, Justice, and Advocacy.In this episode, you'll hear from Rev. Stefan Weathers Sr. – Rev. Stef. is not only the program manager for Young Adult Engagement at Democracy NC – but he is also a writer, preacher, organizer, and activist who has been committed to equity and justice racially, economically, and in a number of other sociocultural and political ways since he was a teenager.Support the Show.Follow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

In our Built By Faith series, we're sitting down with faith leaders from across the state to talk about the intersections of Faith, Justice, and Advocacy.In this episode, you'll meet Lela Ali, an immigrant from Egypt and Duke University alum with a Master's in International Development Policy and Middle East Studies. As Co-founder of Muslim Women For, Lela spearheads efforts to uplift Black, Brown, immigrant, and indigenous Muslim women in North Carolina through political advocacy, grassroots organizing, and coalition building. With a passion for voting rights, immigrant justice, and reproductive justice, she's a vibrant leader driving positive change in her community.Support the Show.Follow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

In our Built By Faith series, we're sitting down with faith leaders from across the state to talk about the intersections of Faith, Justice, and Advocacy. In this episode, you'll hear from Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland. Executive Director of NC Council of Churches. Dr. Jennifer, with a PhD in religion, is a native of South Carolina and an ordained minister in The United Methodist Church. She loves South Carolina, but has managed to spend all but ten years of her adult life in North Carolina. Prior to joining the Council, she spent 16 years as the United Methodist Chaplain at Duke University, where she also taught undergraduate and divinity school classes.Show Notes/Credits:Rev William Barber on Voter ID: NC Newsline (2011)Trump Tells Laura Ingraham “I'm the Only One That Matters”: The Associated Press (2017)Justice: This Is the Bible's Radical View: BibleProject (2017)Pro-life, pro-choice groups clash in protest uptown: WCNC (2020)Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene Says GOP 'Should Be Christian Nationalists' Party: Nina Golgowski, Huffington Post (2022)Jefferson's Jan. 1, 1802 letter to Danbury Baptist Association: Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, Reading by Bill Barker (2024)Support the Show.Follow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

In celebration of Women's History Month, we're sitting down with the women of Democracy NC —  in this episode you'll hear from Aleisha Harding, Digital Campaigns Associate at Democracy NC. Tune in to hear about what this month means to Aleisha ...Meet Aleisha Harding:  Aleisha received a B.S. in Political Science with a concentration in Southern Politics from East Carolina University. She has a background in Elections and Organizing.  Her passion for voter outreach and political engagement grew while she was employed with the County Board of Elections. Working with non profit grassroots organizations motivated her to become a leader in her community and advocate for herself and others. She enjoys interacting with people, whether it is when operating the food  truck that her family owns or canvassing a neighborhood.Support the showFollow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

In celebration of Women's History Month, we're sitting down with the women of Democracy NC —  in this episode you'll hear from Kamaria E. Lawrence, Regional Managing Organizer in the Western Piedmont Region. Tune in to hear about what this month means to Kamaria...Meet Kamaria E. Lawrence:  Kamaria  grew up in the Charlotte Metro area and has lived there for the majority of her life… only leaving for her Undergraduate studies at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro and  her Graduate studies at Clark Atlanta University. Registering her first voter at the age of six, voter rights have long been a major part of her life. She came to Democracy NC after a seven year career in electoral politics beginning with Organizing for America. Kamaria has organized for political and issue campaigns in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Alabama. She is a member of her church's Social Justice Ministry introducing noteworthy community programming on the electoral process and voter rights. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. where she has always advocated with fellow members for the purpose of Voter Rights and Education. In her free time she loves to travel and spend time with family.Keep listening to hear about what woman's history month means to Kamaria.Support the showFollow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

In celebration of Women's History Month, we're sitting down with the women of Democracy NC —  starting with our Development Director, Shannon Heck. Tune in to hear about what this month means to Shannon....Meet Shannon Heck: Shannon was born and raised in South Carolina and moved to North Carolina to attend Wake Forest University where she studied political science and history. She joined several local advocacy campaigns aimed at removing obstacles to political participation while still a teenager. After graduation, she worked in constituent services on Capitol Hill. Shannon  taught high-school civics for five years before beginning her career in development. Shannon is passionate about education issues and has volunteered in numerous roles with the Winston Salem Forsyth County SchoolsSupport the showFollow Us on Social MediaFacebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolinaInstagram: @democracyncTikTok: @democracyncX: @democracync

Did you know Early Voting is the most popular form of voting in NC? Join Alyssa and Zakyree as they provide you with a comprehensive voting toolkit for the 2024 primary election happening NOW. Whether you're casting your ballot in person or from the comfort of your home, this episode equips you with everything you need to participate in our democracy.Support the showFind Helpful Information on Voting in North Carolina below:Learn more about Early Voting at ncvoter.orgFind Early Voting Sites near you at demnc.co/earlyvoteRequest Your Absentee Ballot at demnc.co/absreqCheck Your Registration for Election Day at demnc.co/regcheck

In celebration of Valentine's Day and Black History Month, we're bringing back a special ENCORE episode: meet Dawn and Martin Blagrove — Together for 30 Years — as we celebrate Black Love on Built By Us. Tune in for a love story, laughs, and advice for Black couples everywhere. Tune in for Black Love.Dawn Blagrove is the Executive Director of Emancipate NC.Martin Blagrove is a Nurse Anesthetist in Johnston County.Support the show

In this episode, Democracy Summer communications friendtern Zainab Adamou-Mohamed interviews Yahtrip Abdelgadir, a refugee community organizer with Church World Service Greensboro. Tune in to learn about the unique experiences of first generation immigrants and their role in the movement as changemakers and storytellers.Follow CWS Greensboro at @cwsgreensboronc.Support the show

Happy Pride Month! In this epsiode, our very own Democracy Summer communications intern, Kendall Garraway, speaks with Professor Eric Toler from UNCG. Together, they discuss  how white supremacy shows up in Queer and Trans community, legislation, and NC history. Tune in to learn  what social movement builders are doing to fight back. Follow us on IG @democracync.Support the show

#ActionAlert

In this episode, we interview our Organizing Program Manager, Desmera 'Des' Gatewood, on their recent publication "Love for the Black Failure."Tune in to hear a radically vulnerable perspective on how Des takes up space and navigates neurodivergence, respectability politics, and identity in their personal and professional life. ***Desmera Gatewood has spent the majority of her adult life organizing and advocating for equitable policies and practices. A Durham native and a graduate of North Carolina Central University, Desmera's Southern roots inform her passion for engaging both rural and urban communities in political advocacySupport the show

Hear all about HB 40, a dangerous anti-protest bill that is quickly moving through the NC House and Senate. Tune in to learn how you can take action NOW.Support the show

In this episode, Zakyree and Joselle tell you all about how you can make sure #EveryVoteCounts this election. In 2020, we deployed hundreds of volunteer “canvass monitors” to key counties to observe the count.  Tune in to learn how you can be a part of that in 2022!Support the show

It's time to #vote, North Carolina! Tune in for all the deets on Voting — Early and on Election Day —  in NC's 2022 statewide general election. Zakyree and Alyssa talk about recent turnout numbers, what/who's on the ballot, and how you can be prepared before you even head to the polls!Support the show

Season 4 Premiere. Ode to Democracy Summer '22. In this premiere episode, Starlynn, Ingrid, and Jemiah talk with 3 college students from across NC about what exactly it means (and takes) to be a student leader at a PWI. Support the show

Welcome to Season 4 of Built By Us! We're so glad you're here.Support the show

This week we're talking about the fight for Worker's Justice!

IT'S TIME TO VOTE, Y'ALL. In our latest episode, Taylor and Alyssa are talking about all things NC Primary Elections, including why they're important, what's on the ballot, and why you should go vote (and how to do just that)! Tune in for all the info you need to vote this season.Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

Our 2020 Vote Protectors were the reason we solved hundreds of issues in a matter of minutes.⁠  In this mini-episode, hear from Vote Protectors all across the state as Taylor and Alyssa read stories that were sent in after the 2020 election.Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

In our latest episode, 2021 Democracy Summer intern, Lucas Seijo, returns to tell us more about how the upcoming primary election will affect student voters and strategies they can use to ensure their voices are heard. Tune in for more information on voting as a student in this upcoming primary election!Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

Meet Jaclyn! Co-Director of A Visual Approach, a woman-founded firm specializing in graphic recording, group facilitation, and strategic illustration. Led by her love of deep community, listening,  and her deep desire to achieve a joyful future — Tune in to learn more about how Jaclyn collaborates with clients to make it easier to engage with big ideas, see connections, and make decisions! Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

Meet Kari Points —  an anti-racist facilitator and political educator based in Durham, NC. For 30 years, she has organized and advocated globally and domestically for collective liberation grounded in mutual interest. Tune in as Kari Points tells us all about why white folks can and must free themselves from internalized white supremacy; build mutual interest and solidarity with people of color everywhere, and organize for our collective liberation.Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

Did someone say encore??? In our continued celebration of Black Love, meet Erin and Bahr — Lovers and Movement Makers. Tune in for stories, laughs, and advice for Black couples everywhere. Tune in for Black Love.Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

In celebration of the 2022 Black History Month theme, “Black Health and Wellness”, Built By Us is re-releasing our summer 2021 episode — "Addressing the Stigma Surrounding Mental Health in Black and Brown communities" — featuring former Democracy Summer intern, Trinity Murray, and Dr. Kimberly Hardy, MSW, Ph.D Tune in as we deconstruct the stigma surrounding mental health in Black and Brown communities, understand the importance of normalizing treatment, and learn how we can each prioritize our own self-care. Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

In this episode, meet Dawn and Martin Blagrove — Together for 30 Years — as we celebrate Black Love on Built By Us. Tune in for a love story, laughs, and advice for Black couples everywhere. Tune in for Black Love.Dawn Blagrove is the Executive Director of Emancipate NC.Martin Blagrove is a Nurse Anesthetist in Johnston County.Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

 In this episode, hosts are joined by Democracy NC staff favs to talk about their personal experiences with Black History Month. — Join us as we discuss the historical context of Black History Month, changing perceptions over time, and why history will always hold such an important role in our lives.  Happy Black History Month!Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

In this quick episode, hear from 4 previous Built By Us guests as they share what Black History Month means to them. Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

It's time to #work, y'all. In this quick episode, Taylor and Alyssa give you all the details on what Democracy NC is working on this year — and trust us, it's a lot. Tune in for all things elections, advocacy, and justice in 2022. Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

En este episodio especial en español estamos hablando con Martha Hernandez quien es parte de la organización el Comité de Acción Popular en Raleigh. ¡Hablamos sobre la inspiradora historia de Martha y su pasión por organizar! ¡No te lo querrás perder!Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

In this quick building brick episode, Alyssa and Taylor tell you all the details about next week's FIRST EVER full Built By Us episode en español (in spanish)! Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

Happy Holidays! In this brick episode, Taylor and Alyssa sign off and thank each of you for your support this year. See you in 2022!Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

Hear from El Pueblo's Development Director, Michelle Bermeo Betancourt!

Hear from El Pueblo's Executive Director, Iliana Santillan!

In this episode, Taylor is joined by the Senior Research Manager of our Advocacy Team, JP Grillet! — Together JP and Taylor give you the rundown on where redistricting is at right now in North Carolina, how we got here, and how YOU can help us get to where we need to be. Tune in to learn all about #FairMaps.Reach out to JP with all of your redistricting questions at jean-patrick@democracync.org!Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

“No one can tell my story like I can.” — In this episode, hear from Blueprint NC's Maria Mayorga as she tells us all about her journey into activism, why we should be empowering youth to share their stories, and the importance of celebrating and staying close to Latinx and Hispanic culture.

What does it mean to you, to be a leader? In this episode, Alyssa and Taylor introduce you to Democracy North Carolina's Interim Co-Executive Directors: Cheryl Carter and Adrienne Kelly. — Tune in to learn more about Adrienne and Cheryl's journey at Democracy NC, their personal theory of change, and what it means to them to be a leader. Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

"If not us, then who?"  — In this episode, hear from 2 Latina women making a difference in Western NC. Featuring two UNC Asheville students and former Democracy NC Friendterns, Emily Arismendy and Kathia Fuentes Beyhaut! Tune in to hear from Emily and Kathia themselves on what it means to be Latinx in North Carolina.Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

Celebrating Latinx & Hispanic Movement Makers in North Carolina. — In this episode, Alyssa and Taylor chat with UNC-Chapel Hill Student and two-time Democracy Summer Alum, Veronica Fonseca. Tune in to hear all about Veronica's journey into local and global politics, her thoughts on Latinx Hispanic Heritage Month, and to learn more about her Mexican roots and culture.

In this episode, Alyssa and Taylor go over what's on the ballot this year! Many North Carolinians have local races to vote on this Fall and we want you to be prepared. Listen in for a quick episode on what offices are up, what powers they hold, and what issues are at stake during these local elections! Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)

Celebrating Latinx & Hispanic Movement Makers in North Carolina. — In this episode, Alyssa and Taylor chat with Southeastern RMO, Manny Mejia Diaz, to hear their thoughts on Latinx Hispanic Heritage month and to learn more about his Salvadoran roots and culture.