Besides being the furniture capital of the world and the setting for “One Tree Hill”, North Carolina is best know for its incredible universities. And if you know anything about North Carolina’s universities, you know there’s nothing they love more than basketball. That’s why when the National Collegiette Athletic Association (NCAA) decided to take away North Carolina’s right to host two rounds of the popular Division I men’s college basketball tournament “March Madness”, people were shocked.
This is in reaction to a law that Charlotte, North Carolina passed in March called House Bill 2 (HB2). It prevents transgendered people who have not yet surgically changed their gender from their biological sex to use the bathroom of the gender in which they identify with. This includes private businesses and schools as well. Since this law has been passed several events have been canceled in the state in protest. Artists like Bruce Springsteen, Duran Duran and Maroon 5, as well as Nick Jonas and Demi Lovato all have canceled their concerts in North Carolina. Even some well-known authors like John Green and Maureen Johnson have decided not to attend conferences in the state. PayPal decided not to open a location in North Carolina after the law was passed, costing the state hundreds of new jobs.
By losing the right to host these two very important games, these cities are losing a lot more than bragging rights. It’s estimated that these two games will end up costing the state $100 million in lost revenue from the tourists that the games attract. And now the NCAA has decided to yank six more championship games from North Carolina. Mark Emmert, president of the NCAA, stated: “We believe in providing a safe and respectful environment at our events and are committed to providing the best experience possible for college athletes, fans and everyone taking part in our championships.” Now that the law is messing with North Carolina’s beloved sport, people are seriously reconsidering the necessity of the law. A recent poll was taken and more voters said that they believe the law is hurting the state. Due to these recent events lawmakers have been implying that there could be an appeal on the horizon.