OPINION: Why we fight

What a beautiful place we live in!

From our stunning lakes, parks and rivers, to our local events and farmer’s markets, and the exceptional teachers at our own community college — Kootenai County is a great place to live.

The deep love that Kootenai County Democrats have for their hometown makes the GOP’s destructive leadership infinitely more heartbreaking. When you love something (like North Idaho College for example), it is hard to see “rated and vetted” GOP trustees do so much damage and create so much chaos.

There are many reasons why Kootenai County Democrats feel a powerful drive to fight for a more perfect union here.

Recently, we asked our social media followers to share why they think Kootenai County is a place worth fighting for.

Jake shared that, “Idaho is a place that is inclusive to all, neighborly, reasonable, and respectful. A small, fringe group has subverted the Republicans into something that has nothing to do with Conservatism. We all deserve better.”

Democrats concur. It is possible to disagree without being disagreeable. We have many healthy disagreements with local Republicans. However, the right wing fringe applies the label of “RINO” to any and all Conservatives who debate respectfully. A small fringe group that is more titillated by warfare than productive governance has hijacked North Idaho politics.

Kootenai County deserves better.

Another social media follower, Cathy, said that Kootenai County is worth fighting for, “Because we need and want balance, not hateful extremism. We want access to healthcare for women, and education for children to name a few.”

Democrats are defined by their hope for the future. We all envision a safer and more equitable world for women and a better world for our children and grandchildren. We don’t look back through rose-colored glasses at a “lost America” and wax nostalgic. Kootenai County Democrats look forward to possibilities that we haven’t even dreamed of yet. We want better for future generations.

At the same time, we aren’t afraid to look back with clear eyes and a determination to sustain traditional Kootenai County values. We build on the legacy of those who have come before us. Longtime locals will tell you that Kootenai County at its core embraces tolerance, kindness and respect. Those who have lived here for decades have memories of Democrats and Republicans working side by side. They remember the soul-stretching work required to expel hate groups like the Aryan Nations. They know that deep down, we can do better as a community.

Kootenai County Democrats share that optimism.

Another social media follower, Loree, shared that Kootenai County is worth fighting for because, “It's been my family's home for five generations and I don't like what's happening due to right wing extremism. It used to be more welcoming, tolerant, friendly, and free.”

Kootenai County Democrats believe that we can rebuild a community that is welcoming, tolerant, friendly and free. However, it will take work to realize this vision.

Speaking out against complacency, John F. Kennedy paraphrased Edmund Burke, saying: “All that is required for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.”

To quote another great mind, “The price of apathy towards public affairs is to be ruled by evil men.” — Plato.

Good things happen because brave people step up. With shaking voices, we speak. Not knowing the outcome, we work. We are not political professionals. None of us have an advanced degree in political science or public administration. What we do have is a love for the place where we live. And love is a far more powerful force.

Fear not, step up, look into becoming a Democratic precinct captain. Donate some time or dollars to the Kootenai County Democrats. If nothing else, be brave enough to talk with your neighbors and friends about why you think Kootenai County is worth fighting for.

Working together, we can create a more perfect union.

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Evan Koch is chairman of the Kootenai County Democrats.