OPINION: Condemn racism and build a better future for Kootenai County
Evan Koch
As Chair of the Kootenai County Democratic Central Committee, I am deeply troubled by recent events surrounding the NCAA Women's Basketball tournament held in Spokane. The fact that teams competing in the tournament felt compelled to change hotels from Coeur d'Alene to Spokane due to racism directed at them is not just a stain on our community, but a reminder of the work we still have ahead of us in combating bigotry and intolerance.
North Idaho has a complicated history, one that we must confront head-on. The presence of the Aryan Nations compound in our county serves as a stark reminder of the deep-seated racism and hate that has plagued our region in the past. While we have made strides in moving beyond this dark chapter, recent events serve as a sobering reminder that the work of building an inclusive and equitable community is far from over.
At the heart of the Democratic Party's values lie principles of inclusion, diversity and equity. These are not just buzzwords for us; they are guiding principles that inform our actions and shape our vision for a better future. We believe that diversity is our strength and that by celebrating the uniqueness of every individual, we can create a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
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