In Memory of Ralph Kennedy Frasier Sr. (1938-2024)

Please join us on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 PM at the Chapel Hill Public Library for a timely and thought-provoking program, “A Warning Then and Now: George H. White’s 1901 Farewell Address to Congress.” George Henry White was a North Carolina attorney, educator, and statesman who rose from Reconstruction-era politics to become the only African American serving in the U.S. Congress at the turn of the 20th century and the last Black member of Congress from the South for nearly three decades. Born in Bladen County, White served in the North Carolina General Assembly before his election to Congress in 1896, where he fought forcefully against racial violence, voter suppression, and segregation, including introducing early federal anti-lynching legislation. In 1901, amid the rise of Jim Crow and the systematic dismantling of Black political power, White delivered his historic farewell address on the floor of the U.S. House—warning the nation about the consequences of abandoning justice while predicting that African Americans would one day return to Congress.  That prophecy was fulfilled in 1992, when Eva Clayton was elected to represent North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District, becoming the first African American to serve in Congress from North Carolina since George H. White. At this program, renowned storyteller and performer Dr. Sonny Kelly will reenact White’s speech, and local scholars and civic leaders will lead a conversation about its historical significance and contemporary relevance. Location: Chapel Hill Public Library Date & Time: Thursday, February 19 | 6:00–8:00 PM Register here: https://www.chapelhillpubliclibrary.org/event/copy-warning-then-and-now-george-h-whites-1901-farewell-address-congress-28756 (Registration required; closes February 16) We hope you will join us for this powerful evening honoring a legacy that spans generations and continues to shape our understanding of justice and civic responsibility.

Laws on marijuana vary from state to state in the US. Individuals over twenty-one can use the drug legally in states like California, New York, and others. Still, in North Carolina, the penalization of the drug remains to this day (August 2024). Possession can lead to criminal charges of varying degrees. Yet, the local laws on marijuana do not entirely stop its usage in the state. Marijuana statistics In 2021, approximately 19% of Americans had used marijuana at least once in their lifetime, making it the most common illegal federal drug in the country. Its use can lead to health problems, especially in individuals who start using as teens. It is estimated that three in every ten users develop cannabis disorder. The risk of becoming drug-dependent is higher for people under eighteen years old and frequent users. According to the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, 22.1% of high-school-aged youth in North Carolina had consumed marijuana in the last thirty days in 2019. Teenagers who start using the drug at an early age are also at a higher risk of developing neurological effects. Marijuana affects sections of the brain in charge of essential functions, such as: Memory Learning Attention Decision-Making Coordination Emotion Reaction time Its long-term use is also linked to a risk of psychosis or schizophrenia. It is important to note that not all persons have the same health consequences when using marijuana. Several factors determine the intensity of the sequels, as follows: The amount of THC in the drug The frequency of marijuana use The genetics and age of the user Simultaneous use of other drugs, such as tobacco and alcohol Marijuana users should be aware of the consequences of the drugs. Detecting any warning signs of early dependence can make a difference. Consequences and fighting back Even though the consumption of the drug is spread throughout the country, users in North Carolina still face sanctions for possession. If you or someone you know is facing a marijuana-related charge, you can seek legal counseling. Drug legislation in the USA is changing. Policymakers may someday legalize North Carolina marijuana usage for medical or recreational consumption. Meanwhile, users of the drug must understand the consequences of possession. It is also helpful to know your rights in case of a drug-related arrest.

Frasier & Griffin PLLC has locations in Raleigh and Durham, both of which offer counsel and representation to clients in a variety of legal matters. The firm is experienced at handling criminal cases, including homicide, white-collar crimes, theft, and domestic violence. Other areas of practice include personal injury and family law. Ralph K. Frasier, esteemed among criminal defense attorneys in Durham, is admitted to practice in North Carolina and Ohio and is affiliated with several professional associations, including the North Carolina Association of Black Lawyers. Expertise Selection Process