By FāVS News Staff
Ninth Circuit upholds Washington law against Christian-owned Olympus Spa meant for women only
The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled in Olympus Spa v. Armstrong that Washington’s anti-discrimination law does not violate the religious rights of Olympus Spa, a Christian-owned, women-only Korean spa. The case arose after the spa was fined for denying entry to a transgender woman, prompting a legal challenge based on the First Amendment.
The court found the law does not place a substantial burden on religious exercise and denied a rehearing request. In a dissent, Donald Trump appointed Judge Lawrence VanDyke argued the decision fails to protect religious liberty and criticized the majority’s reasoning as deferring to a political agenda.
Attorneys with the Pacific Justice Institute, representing the spa, say they will petition the U.S. Supreme Court, setting up a potential high court review of the clash between anti-discrimination law and religious freedom claims.
Ellensburg man arrested for alleged church arson, faces first-degree charges
Jessie Gregorio Jensen, 34, was arrested after allegedly setting a fire at Ellensburg United Methodist Church on March 21 while people were inside. Security footage reportedly shows him scouting the building before igniting the blaze, which forced occupants to flee. Authorities later found Jensen hiding in a doorway, where he resisted arrest and was subdued using PepperBall and foam projectiles. He was taken to a hospital before being jailed on suspicion of first-degree arson and resisting arrest, with bail set at $250,000. Police say Jensen has a prior history of violent encounters, including a 2024 knife incident involving officers.
WA Immigrant Network reports mixed results from 2026 Legislative Session
Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network (WAISN) highlighted both progress and setbacks following Washington’s 2026 legislative session. Leaders Brenda Rodríguez López and Catalina Velásquez praised immigrant-led advocacy efforts that secured 12 legislative wins, including expanded worker protections, stronger legal enforcement tools, domestic worker rights and limits on surveillance. Lawmakers also funded migrant support programs, including $25 million for services under the Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance.
However, WAISN criticized cuts and structural changes to the Apple Health Expansion Program, warning they could reduce care quality amid rising demand. The group also expressed concern over weakened privacy protections and failure to pass key deportation defense and labor legislation. Despite disappointments, WAISN reaffirmed its commitment to advancing immigrant rights and access to essential services statewide. Full statement here.
El Mercadito celebrates Latino heritage with food and community in Spokane March 28
El Mercadito, organized by Latinos en Spokane, an outdoor cultural market, invites the community to celebrate Hispanic and Latino Heritage month with them from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 28 at 402 S. Pittsburg Street.
Open to the public, the event provides free fresh food through a community food bank and offers medical services via the CHAS mobile clinic. Attendees can enjoy cultural activities, live music, entertainment and a variety of Latin street food while shopping from local artisan vendors. Fully volunteer-powered, El Mercadito partners with Second Harvest, Northwest Harvest and Catholic Charities to distribute fresh food and support local families.
‘Gayme On’ day party in Spokane launches Trans Visibility fundraiser March 28
Gayme On: Shirts vs Skins Day Party takes place March 28 from 1–6 p.m. at The Q Lounge in Spokane. Hosted by Spectrum Center Spokane, the 21+ event kicks off Trans Day of Visibility weekend and launches a fundraising campaign supporting gender affirmation programs. With music by DJ Sassy, attendees can enjoy games, a cup pong tournament and community connection. Admission is free with a suggested $10 donation, directly benefiting services for transgender and gender-diverse individuals across the Inland Northwest. For those who can’t make it but would like to donate to the fundraiser can give online.
Spokane workshop on March 29 blends yoga, sound bath and vocal expression
Anam Cara invites the community to their special event “Movement & Sound — A Practice of Presence and Prayer” on March 29, from 12-1 p.m. Led by Rae Erickson, the workshop integrates gentle yoga, body scan meditation, vocal grounding and a sound bath to support emotional regulation and self-expression. Participants are encouraged to explore their voice in a safe, inclusive environment and connect in community discussion afterward. The event features a sliding-scale cost of $22–$44, aiming to remain accessible while fostering personal growth, creativity, and holistic well-being. To sign up or more information visit the website.
Spokane Public Library, RICS to host free arts and music night April 25
Spokane Public Library and Refugee and Immigrant Connections Spokane will host Hope in the Community: A Night of Art and Music on Saturday, April 25, at Central Library beginning at 6 p.m. The free, festival-style event will feature live performances from six local acts, a guided Paint & Sip led by artist Nicki Coburn, and a drop-in watercolor activity for families from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Beverages from Iron Goat Brewing will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting RICS, which supports refugee and immigrant communities across the Spokane region. “Music and art have the power to connect and uplift, and we invite everyone to experience that with us,” said Renee Kenney, marketing and development director for RICS.
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