Step into the pulse of North Carolina's social and political landscape with the Winter 2023 edition of the ACLU of NC Newsletter. In this edition, we explore the intricate web of budgetary decisions that shape the fabric of our state. We also discuss the impending future of affirmative action, as the aftermath of recent Supreme Court rulings threatens to affect our communities for generations to come. Moreover, we address the effects of gerrymandering, emphasizing its significance beyond mere political maneuvering—it poses a real threat to the very foundation of democracy in our state. The edition reviews the current battles against intellectual freedom. Banned books aren't just stories—they're symbols of our right to expression, and they're under attack. And then there's the ongoing saga of reproductive injustices. It's a tale as old as time, but the stakes have never been higher. Join us as we navigate the treacherous waters of reproductive rights, standing firm against injustice. But amidst the challenges, there's hope. We're shining a spotlight on the resilience of our trans youth, fighting tooth and nail to protect their rights in the face of adversity.