Advocates continue to spotlight allegations of racism in Durham County government

The group of advocates included leaders from clergy and political groups.

"[We want] to show solidarity for all county employees. What’s going on goes beyond county commissioners. It has a ripple effect. It’s systemic," said Antonio Jones, chairman of the Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People.

Jones estimated that nearly two-thirds of Durham County employees are minorities.

Davis' contract is set to expire in June, and the group said no decisions should be made on the contract until all members of the Board of Commissioners have undergone racial equity training.

Because of a feud last year between Davis and Commissioner Heidi Carter, the groups also demanded that Carter recuse herself from decisions surrounding his contract.

"Her participation in any contract negotiations presents a clear conflict of interest," Jones said.

Brenda Howerton, chairwoman of the Board of Commissioners, agreed that Carter shouldn't participate in reviewing Davis' contract.

In a statement, Carter said the law allows her to recuse herself for only a couple of reasons, and the situation with the manager's contract doesn't fit those parameters.

"Therefore, it is my duty to participate." she said. "I will uphold this responsibility."

The advocates said they will hold a virtual town hall on April 27 to put the racial bias allegations in the national spotlight.

"People profess that Durham is this oasis of equity and things of that nature. It’s important that we hold up the mirror in times like this," said Henry McKoy, director of entrepreneurship at North Carolina Central University, who is organizing the town hall.