At least 11 demonstrators were arrested
Monday in Raleigh, North Carolina protesting a state law that targets
the LGBT community.
Police said about 350 protesters
gathered outside the General Assembly to demand lawmakers repeal
House Bill 2, a controversial law that blocks cities from enacting
LGBT protections and prohibits transgender people from using the
bathroom of their choice in government buildings, including schools.
Republican leaders have been under fire
since approving the legislation during a one-day special session.
According to CBS
affiliate WNCN, Raleigh police began arresting demonstrators when
the crowd moved inside the Legislature just before 5 PM. Those
arrested were charged with trespassing and violating building rules.
Rev. William Barber of the North
Carolina NAACP described the law as “Hate Bill 2.”
“We know our history. That's why the
black community stands with the LGBT community. Forward together,
not one step back,” he told the crowd outside the Capitol.
More than 50 people were arrested at a
similar rally three weeks ago.