By FāVS News Staff
Spokane faith leaders to hold vigil in solidarity with Minneapolis ICE protests
Faith leaders and community members will gather today (Jan. 23) at St. John’s Cathedral for an interfaith vigil from 10 to 11 a.m. in solidarity with Minneapolis’ Day of Truth and Freedom, a statewide action protesting ICE operations. The vigil will include song, prayer and reflection, followed by a sign-waving demonstration on Grand Boulevard from 11 to 11:30 a.m.
Organizers said the event will support Minneapolis residents and those affected by ICE enforcement in Spokane and nationwide. Participants are encouraged to bring signs expressing solidarity with immigrant communities and Minneapolis, with suggested messages including “Abolish ICE,” “Solidarity with Minneapolis” and “We stand with our Immigrant Neighbors.” The vigil is open to all faiths at St. John’s Cathedral, 127 E. 12th Ave.
More than 200 protest outside Baumgartner’s office over ICE operations
More than 200 protesters gathered outside U.S. Rep. Michael Baumgartner’s office Tuesday as part of the Women’s Walk Out March, carrying signs referencing Renee Good and urging the congressman to oppose expanded ICE operations. Protesters expressed concerns about immigration enforcement tactics, with one saying, “Women being dragged out of their cars or shot is inhumane.”
The demonstration was part of the nationwide Free America Walkouts. One participant criticized Baumgartner for appearing to support the administration’s policies without listening to constituents. Three counter-protesters drove by during the event, with one calling for increased ICE presence across the country.
Idaho GOP senators call for US to prioritize global religious liberty
Idaho’s Republican U.S. Sens. Jim Risch and Mike Crapo have introduced a resolution affirming America’s commitment to defending religious freedom worldwide, citing what they say are rising attacks on Christians globally. The resolution, backed by a dozen GOP senators, calls on Secretary of State Marco Rubio to use all available diplomatic tools to discourage foreign governments from violating religious freedom and encourages the U.S. to “promote, protect, and expand” the internationally recognized right to religious liberty. Risch, 82, who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and is seeking reelection with President Donald Trump’s endorsement, said Christians face persecution ranging from social discrimination to systematic oppression in countries around the world.
Spokane’s 5th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration Features Food, $20,000 Giveaway
Spokane’s United We Stand will host its fifth annual Lunar New Year Celebration on Feb. 14 at the Spokane Convention Center from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The free, all-ages event will welcome the Year of the Fire Horse with a focus on Asian cuisine, featuring complimentary food samples from local Asian-owned restaurants and specialty shops.
The celebration will include distribution of 5,000 traditional red envelopes containing more than $20,000 in prizes donated by local businesses, including gift cards and merchandise. Additional highlights include cultural performances, dragon and lion dances, and family-friendly activities. The first 500 attendees will receive a swag bag. The event honors more than 170 years of Asian heritage in the Inland Northwest. For more information, visit www.SpokaneUnitedWeStand.org.
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