A nonprofit organization that promotes small businesses in central North Carolina is facing growing criticism after its executive director was identified as the author of an anonymous social media comment denying the existence of transgender youth.
The comment appeared earlier this month in Networking Women of the Triangle, a private Facebook group used by women business owners in the Raleigh–Durham area, a region commonly referred to as the Triangle. A parent from Wake County, which includes the state capital of Raleigh, had asked the group for information about sports programs that would be welcoming to their transgender child.
In response, an anonymous account wrote, “There’s no such thing as a transgender son. Blessing to you, but the sooner you help your son realize this, the more successful he (maybe a she) will be.”
While the comment was anonymous to most group members, administrators could see the account associated with the post. After reviewing the comment, they removed the user from the group and disclosed her identity to members. Screenshots later confirmed the post came from the personal account of Jennifer Martin, the executive director of Shop Local Raleigh.
Shop Local Raleigh is a nonprofit organization founded in 2009 that promotes locally owned businesses across the Raleigh metropolitan area. The group represents more than 900 member businesses, ranging from food vendors to professional services, and charges annual membership fees between approximately $50 and $275. The organization operates under the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association and manages several high-profile community events, including Brewgaloo, a large craft beer festival, and the Raleigh Christmas Parade.
After Martin’s comment became public, backlash spread quickly through local business and arts communities. Some business owners questioned whether the organization’s leadership could credibly represent a diverse membership while its executive director had publicly dismissed transgender identity.
Durham-based jewelry artist Bethany Duffrin launched an online petition calling for accountability, saying the comment caused harm and eroded trust. Other business owners expressed concern that the statement could alienate LGBTQ customers, families, and entrepreneurs who support local commerce.
At least one Raleigh-based event company announced it would not renew its Shop Local Raleigh membership, citing discomfort with the organization’s leadership in light of the controversy. Several others said they were reconsidering their involvement pending further action.
In a statement provided to media outlets, the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association said its board is aware of the situation and is reviewing the matter. The board emphasized that the comment was made in a personal capacity and does not reflect the organization’s values, stating that Shop Local Raleigh is committed to diversity, inclusion, and respect.
Martin has not publicly addressed the content of the comment. Her social media accounts were deactivated following the incident, and she has not responded to public requests for comment. She has, however, contacted at least one business owner privately, disputing online posts that described her as owning Shop Local Raleigh or its affiliated events.
As of publication, no decision regarding Martin’s role has been announced. The situation has prompted broader discussion about leadership accountability and the impact of rhetoric denying transgender youth identity, particularly when voiced by individuals in prominent public-facing positions.
