CHARLOTTE, N.C (June 24, 2025) — A settlement has been reached in a federal lawsuit against Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) challenging its transparency practices and actions against two community members. The agreement ends a legal dispute that spotlighted concerns about public access to information and free speech on campus.
The lawsuit—filed on behalf of the plaintiffs by Southern Coalition for Social Justice (SCSJ) in April 2025—alleged CPCC failed to follow North Carolina’s Open Meetings and Public Records laws by withholding information about the planning and development of its new Public Safety Training Facility, named the “Community Lifeline.”
It also claimed CPCC violated the First Amendment by banning two individuals—Mina Ezikpe and Eboni Exceus—from campus after they attended a CPCC board meeting to learn more about the facility and the process behind it.
As part of the settlement:
- CPCC agreed to rescind the campus bans against Ezikpe and Exceus.
- CPCC committed to a schedule for fulfilling outstanding public records requests related to the training facility. The college will work in good faith to complete responses by June 30, 2025, and ensure access without undue burden or cost.
While CPCC denies any wrongdoing, the college has committed to continued compliance with state transparency laws. In consideration of these commitments, the plaintiffs have agreed to dismiss the lawsuit.
“This settlement is a step forward—not just for us, but for everyone who cares about transparency and accountability in public institutions,” said Xavier Torres de Janon, one of the plaintiffs in the case. “We spoke up because we believed our voices—and our community’s right to know—mattered.”
“I’m relieved the ban has been lifted,” said Eboni Exceus, another plaintiff in the case. “Showing up and asking questions should never be punished—community voices matter.”
“This lawsuit helped shine a light on decisions and developments around a critically important issue that was taking place out of public view,” said Janki Kaneria, counsel for Justice System Reform at SCSJ. “As a result of this lawsuit, the community now has access to important information and a renewed commitment to openness from CPCC.”
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Southern Coalition for Social Justice, founded in 2007, partners with communities of color and economically disadvantaged communities in the South to defend and advance their political, social, and economic rights through the combination of legal advocacy, research, organizing, and communications. Learn more at southerncoalition.org and follow our work on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Felecia Phillips Ollie DD (h.c.) is the inspiring leader and founder of The Equality Network LLC (TEN). With a background in coaching, travel, and a career in news, Felecia brings a unique perspective to promoting diversity and inclusion. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Communications, she is passionate about creating a more inclusive future. From graduating from Mississippi Valley State University to leading initiatives like the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Equal Employment Opportunity Program, Felecia is dedicated to making a positive impact. Join her journey on our blog as she shares insights and leads the charge for equity through The Equality Network.
