By FāVS News Staff
Idaho House passes resolution urging Supreme Court to revisit same-sex marriage ruling
The Idaho House of Representatives voted 44–26 to approve a resolution asking the Supreme Court of the United States to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the 2015 decision that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. Rep. Tony Wisniewski, R-Post Falls, and the measure’s sponsor, argues Obergefell undermines religious freedoms and calls for restoring marriage as a union between one man and one woman.
The resolution is symbolic and would not change current law. Critics, including House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, say it harms LGBTQ+ residents and wastes legislative time. Idaho voters approved a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage in 2006, though a federal court struck it down in 2014. The resolution now moves to the Idaho Senate for consideration.
Michael Rapaport brings his comedy — and controversy — to Spokane
Actor and comedian Michael Rapaport, known in recent years as much for his political commentary as his comedy, is scheduled to perform at the Spokane Comedy Club on March 10. Some community members object to his appearance: Rapaport has been an outspoken supporter of Israel following the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack, using his social media platforms to express Zionist views, criticize “Free Palestine” messaging and oppose international recognition of Palestinian statehood.
Two shows are scheduled — a 7 p.m. show (doors open at 6 p.m.) and a 9:45 p.m. show (doors open at 9 p.m.). The later show is restricted to patrons 21 and older; the earlier show is open to those 18 and older with valid ID.
Women Build returns to Spokane March 18–21 to support affordable housing
Habitat for Humanity-Spokane will host its spring Women Build event March 18–21, bringing volunteers together to help construct safe, permanently affordable homes. The four-day build invites community members — whether experienced or first-time builders — to volunteer, fundraise and support local families pursuing homeownership.
More than 60% of Habitat-Spokane homebuyers are women heads of household, underscoring the event’s focus on expanding housing opportunities and stability for families. Registration is $50 and includes construction materials, a T-shirt and lunch on the build site. The build begins with a kickoff and safety huddle at 8:30 a.m. March 18 at 218 N. Collins Ln. in Spokane Valley, with 160 volunteer spots available across four days. To register or find more information, visit the Women Build website.
Gonzaga to host public panel on housing affordability and homelessness in Spokane
Gonzaga University will host a public panel discussion on housing affordability and homelessness in Spokane on March 23 from 6–7:30 p.m. at the Jepson Center Wolff Auditorium. Organized by the university’s Gonzaga University School of Business Administration, the free event will bring together regional experts in social work, sociology, housing policy, and community data systems.
Panelists will examine recent findings from the region’s Point-in-Time Count and Longitudinal System Analysis, offering insight into homelessness trends and the performance of Spokane’s housing system. The discussion will also explore current housing affordability challenges, the impact of city policy strategies and potential solutions moving forward. The event aims to encourage informed community dialogue and collaboration among policymakers, service providers, and residents working to address Spokane’s housing challenges.
‘Journey to the Cross’ Easter walk-through event returns to Spokane Valley April 3–5
Spokane Valley Adventist Church will host the free outdoor walk-through event “Journey to the Cross” April 3–5 in Spokane Valley during Easter weekend. The immersive experience portrays the trial, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, allowing visitors to walk through the story while surrounded by a cast of about 250 volunteers.
Tours begin every 10 minutes and last approximately 45 minutes, giving families an interactive way to experience the Easter narrative. Organizers are still seeking volunteers with various skills to help support this year’s production. To find out more about volunteer opportunities, visit https://cross.journeyspokane.com.
FāVS Interview: Cassy Benefield discusses story on refugee women and International Women’s Day in Spokane
In an interview about her latest story, FāVS journalist Cassy Benefield discusses the work of the International Rescue Committee in Spokane, Washington and the challenges refugee women face today. The organization, along with World Relief, helps resettle refugees and provides services such as legal assistance to immigrants.
Benefield explains that this year’s International Women’s Day gatherings will be smaller because many refugee women feel unsafe attending large events amid heightened immigration enforcement. She hopes the story raises awareness about the experiences of refugee families and encourages Spokane residents to learn more, advocate for, and support neighbors navigating life in a new country. Read the whole interview here online. Tracy Simmons was the first interview in this series, answering questions about her drive and passion for religion reporting. You can read it here.
