This episode features a compelling conversation with Kendall Kendrick, Executive Director of the Charlotte Trail of History and the Charlotte Liberty Walk, as well as remarks from Chief Justice Paul Newby delivered at the May 20th anniversary ceremony in Charlotte.

In the episode, Kendrick offers unique historical insight into the events of May 1775 and her personal connection as a descendant of the Alexander family—key figures associated with the original declaration. She discusses the ongoing legacy of the Mecklenburg Declaration, its place in Revolutionary War history, and the continued efforts to tell Charlotte’s foundational stories through public history initiatives.

Listeners will also hear highlights from Chief Justice Paul Newby’s speech at the 250th commemoration ceremony, where he reflects on the Declaration’s importance to North Carolina’s identity, civic heritage, and the broader American story of liberty.

"We do hereby declare ourselves a free and independent people, that we are and of right ought to be a sovereign and self-governing people under the power of God," said Newby, quoting the Mecklenburg Declaration, on the podcast. "Today, what do we celebrate when we celebrate the Meck Dec? We celebrate self government under the power of God."

All Things Judicial: Beyond the Bench is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen. For more information and to listen to the episode, visit NCcourts.gov.

This episode provides an in-depth look at significant developments in the North Carolina Judicial Branch for the month of May. This episode covers:

• May is Recovery Court Month in North Carolina
• Expansion of remote interpreting services
• Judicial appointments
• Chief Justice Commission on Professionalism awards
• eCourts expansion update
• Human Trafficking Commission update
• Preview of next episode of Beyond the Bench

April is recognized as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of safe, supportive environments for all children. In this episode, we spotlight the NC Guardian ad Litem Program and its vital role in advocating for children involved in the state’s foster care system.

The episode features conversations with three leaders from the Guardian ad Litem Program:

• Carolyn Green, Regional Administrator
• Brittany McKinney, Staff Attorney
• Matthew Wunsche, Appellate Counsel

Together, they discuss the urgent need for volunteer child advocates, volunteer attorney advocates, and interns to support the growing need of abused and neglected children in North Carolina’s court system.

"When I came over to Guardian ad Litem I learned that so many children are under the radar while in the court system," said Green on the podcast. "I hope that people will give of their time and make a difference in a life. When you commit until a child gets back to a safe, permanent home, you can't beat that feeling."

The episode serves as both a call to action and an informative look into how volunteers can support the best interests of children experiencing abuse, neglect, or abandonment.

To learn more about becoming a Guardian ad Litem volunteer or intern, visit volunteerforgal.org.