John -

Below are statements from members of the Idaho Young Democrats that we wanted to bring your attention to. Earlier this year, we were hosted by this great chapter in the city of Boise, where we learned that we cannot leave any Democrat or anyone in any red state behind.

In that spirit, we want to raise awareness for an issue that has arisen in the state of Idaho, where just a few months ago, the far right extremist group Patriot front planned to stage an attack on an Idaho Pride Event. Now, the Idaho GOP has continued an attack on the LGBTQ+ Community in their capital city.

YDA stands with the LGBTQ+ Community throughout Idaho and sends our support to the Idaho Young Democrats.

Thank you for your consideration,

Matt Royer

Young Democrats of America Communications Director

We are deeply disappointed at watching several local businesses fold under pressure and pull their support from the Boise Pride Festival as a result of blatant misinformation and fear-mongering put forth by the Idaho GOP.

Being an ally means being there when things get tough. It does not end when things are no longer convenient or profitable to take a stand. The fact that these sponsors immediately walked away from supporting the festival out of fear that they would lose business, over ridiculously outdated and harmful stereotypes being perpetuated by Idaho Republican leadership, shows where their true priorities lay. We urge voters and consumers to pay attention to who shows up, and who decides to stick around. Integrity matters.

Pride has always been inclusive of everyone, including children. The Idaho Young Democrats will always be an outspoken supporter of the LGBT+ community, as we were in supporting this event this past weekend.?

Harmony Soto

Idaho Young Democrats President

Our thoughts go out to Boise Pride as they deal with the onslaught of negativity our community has had to deal with over the past year.

As seen in Northern Idaho, we assert that our greater LGBTQIA+ community in Idaho is under the attack of multiple multi-media hate and disinformation campaigns. Campaigns intended to stir up emotions and prey on fear.

Nationally, in the last year, Pride Organizations have? seen a massive uptick of hate, disinformation, and legislation targeting the very existence of queer people, their families, and all who love and support them. Our lived experience and other hate incidents reported elsewhere at Pride events painfully illustrate the danger of dehumanizing rhetoric and concentrated targeting of LGBTQIA+ people for political gain.

Love and inclusion will always win.

We offer them our deepest support and gratitude for continuing to push for progress! #ExistLouder

Sam Koester

(He/Him/His)

Idaho Young Democrats Inclusivity Chair

North Idaho Pride Alliance Board President?

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