We Stand Against Hate
First, I would like to acknowledge Jennifer Drake, the owner of The Crown and Thistle Pub, for standing up to hate. Drake’s business as well as two others were criticized by an anonymous crank who submitted a recent letter to CDA Press. This rightwing troll called out Drake’s business along with The Art Spirit Gallery and Mountain Madness Soap Company for supporting North Idaho Rejects Hate Campaign. The campaign promoting human rights is a response to the June 11 incident involving members of the Patriot Front who attempted to disrupt Pride in the Park. All three businesses display the “North Idaho Rejects Hate” poster on their premises.
Anyone who has been here awhile knows about our area’s longstanding battle against the supporters of white supremacy and intolerance. Once again, we must stand up to these hate mongers. One way you can show your support is to frequent these establishments and other like-minded organizations.
The Kootenai County Human Rights Task Force, the Human Rights Education Institute, and the Kootenai County Democrats stand with them. I call on other civic and business organizations including the City Council, the Board of County Commissioners, and the Chamber of Commerce to join us. I would also like to see a concurring condemnation from the Kootenai County Republicans. There is no tolerance here for bigoted bullying.
GOP Press Release RevealS Backlash to Policies and Actions
Second, I would like to draw your attention to a July 26 press release, from the Idaho Young Republicans (IYR). This public statement announced that resolutions passed by the Idaho Republican Central Committee and other controversial issues like the recent Dobbs Decision overruling the constitutional right to abortion, are getting pushback from some members of the state GOP’s coalition. As a result, the IYR is taking steps to distance themselves from these unpopular positions.
The IYR also called out unseemly tactics used by some party members which have drawn additional public outrage. One example was the attempt by the KCRCC to affect a hostile takeover of the Kootenai County Democratic Central Committee during the May Primary Election. The stooge who masterminded this attempt was Region 1 Youth Director Dan Bell. At the time, Bell was working in loose coordination with the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee. He was recorded attempting to recruit collaborators for his scheme. His act of malfeasance led the IYR to expel him for one year.
These statements and actions by the IYR are revealing. They show that the Idaho GOP’s hold on their conservative coalition is weakening. This attempt at candor reveals an opportunity for Democrats to find common ground with these disaffected voters.
Make Plans to Attend These Events
Canvassing Campaign Kick Off
Saturday, August 13 at 2:30 pm
For details contact Donovan Clymer at 248-925-6620
Suicide Prevention and Awareness Walk
Saturday, September 10 at 8:30 am
Keep the Weekend of September 23-24 Open
This weekend offers three events for active Democrats. Watch for details on our website and Facebook page.
The Democracy Dinner
Friday, September 23 at 5:30 pm
Threats to Democracy Symposium
Saturday, September 24
Annual Human Rights Banquet
Saturday, September 24
