Story perspectives

Shop Local Raleigh Director Faces Backlash Over Transgender Comment

12/30/2025

Summary

Story summary

Jennifer Martin, executive director of Shop Local Raleigh, received backlash for an anonymous Facebook comment dismissing transgender youth.
In response to a parent's inquiry about sports for their transgender child, Martin stated, “there's no such thing as a transgender son.”
This comment prompted calls for her resignation from several Triangle businesses and an online petition with over 800 signatures.
Shop Local Raleigh asserted that Martin's views do not align with the organization's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The Board of Directors is addressing the situation, and Martin's social media accounts are currently inactive.

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Story summary

Jennifer Martin, executive director of Shop Local Raleigh, received backlash for an anonymous Facebook comment dismissing transgender youth.
In response to a parent's inquiry about sports for their transgender child, Martin stated, “there's no such thing as a transgender son.”
This comment prompted calls for her resignation from several Triangle businesses and an online petition with over 800 signatures.
Shop Local Raleigh asserted that Martin's views do not align with the organization's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The Board of Directors is addressing the situation, and Martin's social media accounts are currently inactive.