A SHAMEFUL LITTLE SECRET

Some critics say North Carolina is stalling. But others say this state, at least, is trying to own up to its history, and that others should follow suit. (In December, the National Black Caucus of State Legislators passed a resolution calling for federal and state programs to identify victims nationwide and get them health care and counseling.) "We're in uncharted territory here," says Carmen Hooker Odom, the head of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. "We want to create a model other states can follow."

Riddick isn't holding her breath. "They're waiting for all of us to die out," she says. "Then the problem disappears." It's little surprise she has scant faith in a state that has done her, and so many others, so wrong. But at least now the ugly secret is out.

© 2005