Explore Gonzaga University's Urban Art Center's exhibit 'The Pledge of Allegiance' showcasing Reverend Gen Heywood's compelling photos and snippets of the pledge.
Four individuals have been charged with the crime of Malicious Harassment for the vandalism that took place on June 25, 2023, at the Veradale United Church of Christ.
Though the Rev. Gen Heywood doesn’t call herself a leader, she’s become a leading voice in support of inclusion and against extremism in the Inland Northwest.
In the week following the vandalism, Heywood describes an outpouring of community support, including from activists, nonprofits, and other religious institutions. An anonymous donor replaced the stolen flags, and folks from all over donated funds to a campaign to help the church purchase security cameras. But, something was missing: the support and official condemnation of the act from officials at the City of Spokane Valley.
Even though it’s only been a week since Veradale United Church of Church experienced vandalism and theft, the halls of the church were filled with joy and love Sunday, where members of the church and community held a “Love is Greater than Hate” flash mob potluck.
In the early morning hours of Sunday, June 25, 2023, someone chose to target Veradale United Church of Christ: Pride flags were stolen, banners for Black Lives Matter and Pride were torn down and diesel fuel was poured onto the grounds.