When they removed the remnants of Silent Sam, UNC officials admitted it posed a danger to our community. Yet the university still insists on prosecuting Maya Little for her act of civil disobedience against this racist statue. Last fall, UNC’s “Honor” Court found Maya responsible and sentenced her to 18 hours of community service.

One of the panelists who handed down the verdict was Frank Pray, a confederate apologist and vocal supporter of Silent Sam. During the trial, activists unearthed social media posts in which Pray called one of Maya’s two witnesses "a disgrace" and described Silent Sam protesters as “petulant children.” Over objections from the defense, presiding officer Amelia Ahern lauded Pray’s impartiality and allowed him to remain on the panel. Maya knew she would not receive a fair hearing and refused the indulge the farce any further. She walked out in protest and delivered this statement.

Maya’s Honor Court Appeal Hearing is scheduled for Tuesday 2/12. Before the hearing, Maya will honor people who deserve to be memorialized at UNC. Join us at 3:00 PM in the Pit for a dedication ceremony and rally featuring speakers, art, and performances. Invite your friends and help spread the word on social media: https://www.facebook.com/events/601660096941088/

Following the rally, Maya's Honor Court Appeal Hearing will be held from 4-9pm in Student Union Room 3411 and is open to the public.

If you would like to learn more about this and other anti-racist actions in the Chapel Hill area, like Defend UNC on Facebook and follow @takeactionch on Twitter.