Author: Jheri Hardaway

Jheri Hardaway is a staff writer for The Carolinian whose reporting explores the intersection of activism, politics, and community life across North Carolina. Drawing on her own experience and history in political organizing and civic engagement, Hardaway focuses on political coverage that highlights grassroots movements, public policy, and the voices of communities often overlooked in traditional media. Through thoughtful storytelling and analysis, she brings attention to the people and issues shaping the region’s political and social landscape.

Perseverance, Politics, and the Power of Authenticity

December 15, 2025December 10, 20250

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Raleigh, NC - In a city that has transformed dramatically over the last two decades, few voices have remained as consistent and authentic as Madison Jay, also known as "County!" A staple of the Raleigh hip-hop scene, Madison Jay has seen waves of artists come and go, but he remains grounded, driven by a philosophy of perseverance and community. I recently sat down with the

Passing the Baton, Not Throwing It: A Conversation On Leadership And Legacy With Reverand Dr. Darian Bouie

December 14, 2025December 10, 20250

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer In the world of leadership-whether political, corporate, or spiritual-how one enters a role is often just as critical as how one performs in it. I was recently inspired by the installation ceremony of Rev. Dr. Darian Bouie, where a speaker noted the profound difference between a predecessor "passing the baton" versus "throwing it" at the new leader. This essential metaphor has stuck with me. It

Event Spotlight: Shaw University and the HBCU Triumph Gala

December 13, 2025December 10, 20252

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Briar Creek, NC - December 6, 1865, was profoundly symbolic; the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, abolishing slavery. Saturday, December 6, 2025, at The Westin Hotel-RDU was powerful as well. The 2nd Annual HBCU Triumph Gala was a celebration of the very legacy, pride, philanthropy, and endurance that keep us going today. The premier black-tie event dedicated to celebrating triumphs of Historically

What Boycotting Looks Like 70 Years After Montgomery

December 12, 2025December 10, 20250

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - Doris Crenshaw was 12 years old on Dec. 5, 1955, when she and her sister eagerly rushed door to door in their neighborhood, distributing flyers prepared by activists planning a boycott of city buses in Montgomery, Alabama. "Don't ride the bus to work, to town, to school or any place on Monday," the flyers read, urging people to attend a mass meeting that evening. There was

Data Center In Person County: Microsofts Make Major Move

December 11, 2025December 10, 20250

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Woodsdale Township, NC - Person County is set to become the newest home for a Microsoft data center, a development expected to significantly boost the local economy. According to county property records and local press, Microsoft recently paid $26.85 million for a site spanning over 1,300 acres in Woodsdale Township. "Microsoft's presence in Person County will boost our local economy through direct and indirect means,

Durham NAACP 49th Freedom Fund Banquet

December 5, 20250

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Durham, NC - The Durham Chapter of the NAACP recently hosted their 49th Annual Freedom Fund banquet at the Durham Hilton near Duke. Attendees were dressed in their Sunday best attire. The event began with an awe-inspsiring and moving crowd rendition of "Lift Every Voice and Sing." While this song is a staple at many NAACP gatherings, it seemed to resonate with particular power this

The Carolinian’s Jheri Hardaway Files for NC Senate District 12, Vowing to Protect Voter Interests

December 3, 20250

Lillington, NC - Jheri Hardaway officially filed her Notice of Candidacy today with the North Carolina State Board of Elections, formally announcing her bid for the North Carolina State Senate, District 12. Hardaway, a dedicated journalist for The Carolinian News and a community event organizer, is challenging three-term Republican incumbent Jim Burgin. Writer, educator, and current Third Vice Chair of the Harnett County Democratic Party, Hardaway is running on a

Raleigh Chamber Healthcare Summit Highlights Shortage of Skilled Labor for Hospital Construction

November 28, 2025November 25, 20250

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Raleigh, NC - The future of healthcare in the Triangle region was the central topic at the Healthcare Summit 2025, presented by the Greater Raleigh Chamber and a coalition of leading healthcare and business organizations. The event, which took place at the Marbles Kids Museum, brought together experts to discuss how "innovation, development, and leadership are coming together to shape a healthier Triangle region." While

Lumbee Tribal Representatives March on Washington

November 27, 2025November 25, 20250

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Washington, DC - The Lumbee Tribal leadership recently traveled to Washington, DC, to lobby for full federal recognition through the Lumbee Fairness Act. Introduced by outgoing Senator Thom Tillis in January of 2025, the Lumbee Fairness Act seeks to make the Tribe and its members eligible for all services and benefits provided by the Federal Government to federally recognized Indian tribes, like education and healthcare.

2nd Annual Gala Empowers Young Women

November 25, 20250

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Raleigh, NC - The 2nd Biennial S.A.G.E. Gala showcased for the greater Raleigh area the greatness in our young girls. The stunning gowns, impactful speakers, and delicious food made for an inspiring atmosphere in NC State's McKimmon Center. S.A.G.E., a non-profit organization, focuses on mentoring adolescent girls who are in underserved communities by providing resources and programs that give social awareness on issues such as