Prejudice and intolerance is still my problem, because it's not limited to the south. If it was, we wouldn't have the embarrassment that is the current adminis

Prejudice and intolerance is still my problem, because it's not limited to the south. If it was, we wouldn't have the embarrassment that is the current administration announcing a new "Conscience and Religious Freedom Division" to defend healthcare workers that object to having to do things like provide birth control, assist in sex change operations, care for HIV/AIDS patients, and will potentially even deny emergency care to LGBT people or other minorities that they claim they are obligated not to help due to their religious beliefs. But the problems of the south go even deeper than just prejudice against minority groups. Look at which states have increased the minimum wage, and which states expanded medicaid coverage. Look which states have taken the lead on requiring some amount of paid sick leave (only 7 states and DC so far, but at least it's starting). Southern states are among those that also strongly resist bail and sentencing reform, legalizing pot, and other initiatives to reduce inequality. If you think that you can make a difference in Texas by staying there, I think that's great, and I encourage you to do so. You're allowed to love where you live, even if you have to admit that it's not perfect. For me, though, Raleigh didn't have anything to tie me to the place and make me want to use my energy trying to change things there.