WNC locals support protesters at Standing Rock

The Dakotas may be far from Asheville, but many WNC locals have traveled to the Standing Rock Sioux reservation since protests began there in late August over a disputed oil pipeline that crosses tribal lands. Others in Asheville have donated money or supplies to support the tribe’s efforts to block construction of the Dakota Access pipeline.

Leadership in his bones: Sen. Floyd McKissick recalls growing up in Asheville

Among many who fought for equality, Asheville native Floyd McKissick Jr. and his family have been on the front lines of the Civil Rights struggle for more than a century. McKissick gave the keynote speech at the second Annual African Americans in WNC Conference, at which he offered numerous examples of what it was like growing up, when, many nights, his porch had to be protected with armed guards.