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Statement Regarding North Carolina’s House Bill 2 And Grand Prix Charlotte

Although the city of Charlotte has always been extremely welcoming to Magic’s incredibly diverse fan base, a number of fans have contacted us with concerns about the recent passing of a controversial North Carolina state law.

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In recent weeks, a number of individuals have contacted us to ask how North Carolina’s controversial House Bill 2 and/or the subsequent signing of Executive Order No. 93 may affect May 20th-22nd’s Grand Prix Charlotte. Throughout this time, we have been corresponding with both the Greater Charlotte Convention Center and Wizards of the Coast, with the mutual goal of ensuring that all Magic: the Gathering fans will feel both safe and welcome while attending the event.

Although the sizeable event halls we’ve secured for Grand Prix Charlotte (A and B – see below) contain an ample number of restrooms for the expected number of attendees, both event halls contain only multiple occupancy restroom facilities. Legal Counsel for the Greater Charlotte Convention Center has informed us that a) the new state law prohibits both the venue and its clients from designating any multiple occupancy restrooms as unisex facilities and b) the Greater Charlotte Convention Center does not meet the exemption qualifications outlined in Executive Order No. 93.

Further communications with the Greater Charlotte Convention Center and Wizards of the Coast have resulted in all parties mutually concluding that the best option available to us at this time is to designate each of the single occupancy restrooms located within the venue’s VIP Suites–101 (1) and 104 (1), respectively—as well as on the Concourse Level near the Starbucks (2) as unisex facilities. Each of these is highlighted in purple below. We will also ensure that the locations of all restroom facilities are clearly communicated to our attendees on-site.

We are dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive environment for everyone who attends our events. Although the city of Charlotte has always been extremely welcoming to Magic’s incredibly diverse fan base and the entire Greater Charlotte Convention Center staff has gone above and beyond in trying to address our concerns, we have already informed them that decisions made at the state level will be taken into consideration when planning future events.

Grand Prix Charlotte takes place on May 20th-22nd at the Greater Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. For more information on the event, please visit www.starcitygames.com/gpcharlotte.

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