36th Year of Publication Stories inside Intern understands discrimination - p. 5 MLK Day is chance to teach on civil rights - p. 7 Center shares legal resources - p. 9 February 2020 HREI exhibits elicit [email protected] Micah 4:4 conversations - p. 12 Volume 37 Number 2 (509) 535-1813 • 535-4112 Calendar on page 11 Monthly newspaper and website covering faith in action throughout the Inland Northwest features 60+ events online at www.thefigtree.org • check The Fig Tree Facebook page daily for news and links Vision of equality is crucial every day By Mary Stamp grandchildren. She wants them to Stephy Nobles Beans combined know the sacrifices their ancestors song and words to invite several and others made when they became thousand people gathered Jan. 20 allies of King, who left a legacy to at the Spokane Convention Center his children, grandchildren, their for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day children and the world. Rally and March to “keep your eyes “He kept his eyes on the prize, on the prize”—the prize being the the gift that everyone is created gift to dream and keep dreaming the equal,” she said, wondering how vision that everyone will be judged he would feel with there still being by the content of their character, not injustice. the color of their skin. Stephy wants young people to “Freedom’s name is mighty know it’s not just about a holiday sweet, and soon we’re gonna meet,” to march hand-in-hand today, but she sang. “Only chain a man can for “our community to march stand is that chain of hand in hand.” every day in our hearts, work- She clarified that the national places, schools, health care and holiday is for “the Rev. Dr. King, housing—to keep marching every a man of God, a husband, father, day” to challenge injustices in the friend, comrade and dreamer.” community and country. Stephy, who is associate chaplain It’s not for tomorrow, Stephy for diversity, equity and inclusion said, but as King said, “The time is ministry at Whitworth University, always right to do what is right”— said, “his name is historical. Many today, tomorrow and in the future. recognize it. Some remember bits “We need to tell young people and pieces of facts. Some have to strive every day to uncover hid- forgotten. Some say the dreamer’s den prejudices that shape what we vision has been lulled to sleep and see, think and do,” she said. “The only awakened during the holiday.” dream is bigger than King. He Speaking recently on King to didn’t do it in a day, but every day several thousand students, she strived to make a difference, risk- was touched that they want to ing his life for a better life for his make a difference. She thought of children and others. the legacy she wants to leave her “Some say we have not lived up children, grandchildren and great- Stephy Nobles Beans urges people to keep dreaming the dream. Continued on page 6

Nursing professors at Gonzaga seek MLK Center asks city to overcome stigma, improve care to vote on its new name By Marilyn Urness titioner program, believe that part illness who didn’t have it before, EWU intern of improving care is to end the according to a 2016 report of the Freda Gandy, executive director of the Martin Luther King With one in five Americans negative stigma of mental illness Washington State Nurses Associa- Jr. Family Outreach Center, invited those who gathered for the diagnosed with mental illness and in the medical field and society. tion calling for mandatory suicide 2020 Martin Luther King Jr. Day Rally and March at the Spokane more health care providers needed Their work has taken them from prevention education. Convention Center to come to the Spokane City Council meeting as access to care improved under changing the lives of students and With access to treatment, on Monday, Feb. 3, when the council will vote on renaming the the 2010 Affordable Care Act, two patients one at a time, to advocat- the number of patients has out- center at the East Central Community Center the “Martin Luther Gonzaga faculty members seek ing for changes in legislation. weighed the number of qualified King Jr. Community Center.” to improve care for those mental Mental illness has always held caregivers, the report said. She needs voices to challenge some who have said the name health patients. a negative stigma in the health In addition, emergency room is “too ethnic” or sounds like it “targets a certain population.” Jeff Ramirez, associate profes- care industry. Only in the last two staff often lack training to treat She asserted that King stood for everyone, and the center serves sor of nursing at Gonzaga Univer- decades has mental health been patients who are mentally ill and everyone. sity and doctor of nursing prac- considered a legitimate health may not understand the serious- “It’s 2020,” she said. “We need to move forward, not back- tice program director and Carol condition. In 2010, the passage ness of a situation, Jeff explained. ward.” Kottwitz, assistant professor of and enactment of the Affordable “Emergency room staff are The center, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2020, nursing and the program director Care Act (ACA) gave access for burned out in dealing with over- provides early childhood education, children’s enrichment pro- for GU’s psychiatric nurse prac- treatment to people with mental doses and suicide attempts. They grams, a summer youth academy and family support from the don’t understand why patients Martin Luther King Jr. Family Outreach Program plus programs don’t just take their medication that were at the East Central Community Center, including a food and stop using substances,” he bank, senior services, SNAP, W.I.C., Police Athletic League and said. “It’s a complex situation. Early Head Start Daycare with Community Colleges of Spokane. We just need to fix the system These programs are made possible by 7,000 volunteer hours, and help people understand why as the center provided 800 backpacks and 1,300 coats for chil- some people overdose on heroin, dren and 600,000 pounds of food in 2019. attempt suicide or have other Before the march, Mayor Nadine Woodward said:“The civil crises.” rights movement arose so that people would live the creed that According to a Catholic journal all are created equal. We believe in equality, in unity and in

community. We are not immune to racism, but our community

Permit No. 1044 No. Permit article Jeff wrote in 2016, the

WA SPOKANE will not tolerate division.”

Spokane, WA 99202-3571 WA Spokane, consequences of untreated men-

PAID She called for bringing a better tomorrow by standing with

1323 S. Perry St. Perry S. 1323 tal illness affects society and the

U.S. POSTAGE U.S. people in need and being leaders in justice and compassion. Organization

The Fig Tree Fig The community as a whole. The high Non-Profit Continued on page 4 Page 2 - The Fig Tree - February 2020

Religion News Briefs Regional Ecumenical & Interfaith News Around the World Campaign generates funds to add staff World Council of Churches News, PO Box 2100 Because of The Fig Tree’s suc- partners and online donations,” well as a new fall online fundrais- CH - 1211 Geneva 2, Switzerland Tel: +41-22 791 6111 cess in raising nearly $36,000 in said editor Mary Stamp. ing campaign. She or he will also Fax: +41-22 788 7244 www.oikoumene.org the Branching Out Campaign in Part of the funds from the cam- have administrative responsibili- the fall, it will be able to hire a paign will be used over three years ties, assist with the database and Pacific gathering looks for islands of hope development associate to further to help support the position while increase and improve use of social The WCC’s Pilgrimage of Justice and Peace Reference Group its ability to generate income the person raises additional funds media and The Fig Tree’s online and Theological Study Group met in January at the Pacific Theo- for building its capacity to serve to secure ongoing support for the presence. logical College in Suva, Fiji, to reflect on issues in the Pacific through the newspaper and Re- position. “We seek someone who can related to climate change and cooperation with churches, national source Directory in print and “Our effort relies on staff with multi-task, work independently, councils of churches and the Pacific Conference of Churches. online. an entrepreneurial spirit to gener- be persuasive, take initiative, James Bhagwan, Pacific Conference of Churches general secre- “We seek someone committed ate funds to underwrite their sala- problem solve and have flexible tary, spoke the “island of hope” concept in a 2001 WCC document, to our mission and vision to help ries and those of others,” she said. hours,” added Mary. “Island of Hope - a Pacific Church Response to Globalization.” us build more relationships to se- The person will also assist with For information, email mary@ “The island of hope proposes a way of life based on principles cure more advertising, sponsors, the benefit lunch and breakfast, as thefigtree.org. that do not exclude or marginalize, and on values commonly found in the Pacific cultures,” he said. “It is visionary in its view of the future of our region, and we want to share this vision with the global ecumenical family.” It resonates with the proposed theme Fig Tree benefits coming up in early March for the Pilgrimage in 2020: “Caring for People, Water and Earth,” “Connects People, Inspires with the expectation of donating Mary Stamp, editor, said the framing social justice and political issues facing the Pacific today. Action” is the theme for the 2020 to The Fig Tree. goal is to raise $32,500, the Before the meeting, four WCC teams visited in Fiji, looking at Benefit Lunch from 11:30 a.m. Speakers are Margo Hill, Mark amount raised in 2019. climate displacement, indigenous land rights, extractive indus- to 1 p.m., Friday, March 6, and Finney, Linda Hunt and Jeanette The events not only raise funds tries, gender justice, people with disabilities, interfaith dialogue, the Benefit Breakfast from 7 to Laster, sharing three minutes each but also are a time to educate climate change, ecological justice, ocean health and creation care. 8:30 a.m., Monday, March 9. at the lunch, and Joe Ader, David people about The Fig Tree and Both events are at Cataldo Hall Milliken, Dainen Penta and one Resource Directory, and to cel- Faith and Order groups seek further unity at Gonzaga University. more will share at the breakfast ebrate their contribution to the Through three study groups, the WCC Faith and Order Commis- The Fig Tree is currently re- about the value of The Fig Tree community, region and world. sion proposes a world conference to map common ground among cruiting people to host tables and Resource Directory. Persons interested in hosting churches. Its work is done groups focusing on the Pilgrimage of that seat eight, donating $125 to Nathan Slabaugh, who prepared tables, underwriting costs and Justice and Peace, ecclesiology and moral discernment. cover the cost of food and inviting the 2019 video, will prepare the attending may call 535-1813 or The first group follows up on the commission’s proposal for guests to fill their table, coming promotional video. email [email protected]. a Sixth World Conference on Faith and Order in 2025, the 1700th anniversary of the first Ecumenical Council at Nicea. It hopes a conference will excite churches today, and rekindle the desire for visible unity of the church in the midst of deep diversity. Fig Tree will help the census reach people The second group analyzed responses to “The Church: To- To learn about the census, why federal dollars are spent for ser- The project will engage congre- wards a Common Vision,” identifying 16 key theological themes. it matters, how to respond and vices and the number of seats a gations to reach out to racial and Papers on the themes will be shared at the WCC 11th Assembly ways to be involved, there will be state has in Congress. ethnic minorities, persons experi- in 2021 at Karlsruhe, Germany. a Census 2020 Public Forum 5:30 The 2020 Census is a short encing homelessness/houseless- The third group, on moral discernment, recognizes that to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 6, at survey that takes only about 10 ness, LGBTQ persons and others. churches respond differently to ethical questions, risking either Shadle Park High School, 4327 minutes, but has impact for the It will combine maps of local divisions within themselves or preventing them from witnessing N. Ash St., with a presentation next 10 years. A state may lose faith communities with maps of with one voice. It affirmed common ground churches from different and panel discussion, and a live more than $30,000 per person hard-to-count communities. traditions hold in engaging in ethical reasoning. stream video on KSPS, missed. “We will send a mailing to faith Among the nonprofits and oth- Everyone living in the United communities with information Lay Catholics help broker South Sudan peace ers assisting with the census is The States as of April 1, 2020 counts— and the 2020 Census Faith Tool- New South Sudan peace declaration brokered by Sant’Egidio Fig Tree, which has received a a baby born April 1 to the oldest kit, prepared by Faith in Public comes into force. Amid persistent worldwide spiritual and moral $10,000 grant from Innovia to do senior; indigenous people, citi- Life,” said Jim, who will work appeals for peace, reconciliation and support, the government of a project called, Faith Community zens for generations, foreign ex- on contract with The Fig Tree as South Sudan and holdout opposition groups recommitted to ces- Leaders’ Outreach to Hard-to- change students, refugee residents project coordinator. sation of hostilities in a peace declaration brokered by the Sant’ Count Communities in Eastern and undocumented folks; people “We will help faith communi- Egidio, a Rome-based lay Catholic movement. Washington. who live in mansions and people ties ensure people in their neigh- Churches prepare to respond to food shortages Every 10 years, every house- who have no home. borhoods are counted and under- Church groups ready as Zambia faces food shortages in chronic hold in America is surveyed on The Faith Action Network has stand why it is important,” he said. drought. Victoria Falls is known locally as Mosi-oa Tunya,“The demographics such as race and also received funding in other The Fig Tree included a work- Smoke that Thunders,” because of the power of the water from the age, giving a portrait of America. parts of the state to work on the shop on faith community involve- Zambezi River that often flows across one of the great wonders of This year, people will be asked census, so Jim CastroLang, pastor ment in the census at the Eastern the world. Today it is a mere trickle. to respond online. In mid-March, of First Congregational United Washington Legislative Confer- households will be mailed an Church of Christ in Colville and ence on Jan. 25. WCC reaffirms condemnation of anti-semitism invitation with a unique code. a member of the Faith Action Net- For census information, call The World Council of Churches (WCC) stands firm in viewing Although invitations come by work Board, approached The Fig 624-2606. For project information “antisemitism as irreconcilable with the profession and practice of mail, people are asked to access Tree to apply for this area. on, call 998-7203 or 535-1813. the Christian faith.” At its founding Assembly in 1948, antisemi- and complete the questionnaire tism was declared a sin against God and humanity. online using the code. Since then, the WCC has a history working for justice and peace Paper copies can be requested for all peoples in the Middle East, affirming the right of the State of or the questionnaire can be com- Israel to exist,” said WCC general secretary Olav Fykse Tveit. “We pleted over the phone. denounce all violence based on religion, ethnicity, race or any other April 1, 2020, is the official File your taxes dimension of a person’s identity or belonging.” Recently, he met Census Day. Visit website for with the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consul- Census data determines where for free at details... tations work towards restored relationships under the theme, “The normalization of hatred: challenges for Jews and Christians today.” The Fig Tree is published 10 months MyFreeTaxes.com each year, September through June. Deadlines: COPY - 3rd Fridays ADS - 4th Tuesdays It is published by The Fig Tree, 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA 99202, a The Fig Tree is non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. Editorial Team Need assistance to file? reader supported Editor/Publisher/Photos - Mary Stamp Tax volunteers are ready to Directory Editor - Malcolm Haworth help throughout the county. BECOME A SPONSOR! Website Developer - Lorna Kropp Volunteer Coordinator - Kaye Hult ❑ $20-48 Sponsor ❑ $56-108 Friend Editing - Carol Bellinger, Catherine Call 509-353-4851 Ferguson SNJM, Don Hartman ❑ $300-$1,000 Underwriter Kaye Hult, Inga Jablonsky, Mary Mackay, to make an appointment Dru Powers, Nancy Roth, Sara Weaver ❑ $42 for bulk order of 10 Fig Tree Board or visit a first come/ ❑ Nick Beamer, Barb Borgens, $300/year pledge for five years Lauri Clark-Strait, Tom Fallquist, first served site NAME ______Catherine Ferguson SNJM, Malcolm Haworth, Kaye Hult, starting January 31. ADDRESS ______Fred Jessett, Walter Kendricks, CITY/STATE/ZIP ______Gary Jewell, Lynda Maraby, PHONE ______Wade Schwartz, Mary Stamp, Brenda Tudor, Tracey Waring, Visit UnitedWaySpokane.org for details! SEND YOUR DONATION TO James Watkins, Anastasia Wendlinder The Fig Tree, 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA 99202 Copyright © 2020 (509) 535-1813 or 535-4112 February 2020 - The Fig Tree - Page 3

SNAP ombuds program needs volunteers Gonzaga hosts Holocaust Museum exhibit SNAP (Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners) seeks and trains volunteers for its Long Term Care Ombudsman program. Gonzaga University is one of 50 legal, sociological and religious became active in the Resistance, As a volunteer with the SNAP program, Linda Howe relishes sites for an exhibit of the Ameri- perspectives. They will discuss hiding about 40 people, helping visiting residents of long term care facilities who may feel for- can Holocaust Museum and the collective memory, understanding them obtain IDs, food and medical gotten. As she offers them hope, encouragement and support, American Library Association, the violence of the Holocaust and supplies. About 75 percent of her she said the people she befriends and serves have become “like “Americans and the Holocaust,” America’s role in it. extended family were killed in the extended family.” from March 16 to April 27 in Gon- “Many Americans labor under Holocaust. Carla has been shar- “I like visiting these places and meeting with people,” Linda zaga University’s Foley Library the illusion that they would have ing her story with students since said. “I like being able to resolve problems.” Rare Books Room. done the right thing in similar 1992 and is active in the Seattle The Older Americans Act stipulates that every state fa- Gonzaga’s Institute for Hate circumstances and would not have Holocaust Center for Humanity’s cilitate a Long Term Care Ombudsman program. Sometimes Studies, its Office for Diversity, tolerated or supported the Nazis,” Speakers Bureau. the issues she and other volunteers address are simple, such Equity and Inclusion, and the Spo- said Kristine. She was recently named Wash- as finding a suitable mattress or making sure a resident has a kane County Human Rights Task She said museums and exhibits ington State Person of the year proper reading light. Force are planning three public are essential for maintaining his- for her dedication to calling for Often, volunteers serve a critical purpose just by providing a events related to the exhibit. They tory and encouraging people to people to respect each other. She listening ear. Linda said people are happy to see her. are free, but will require tickets for reflect on what they would have will receive the award at 2 p.m., Volunteers mediate resident concerns by working with facil- security, said Kristine Hoover, as- done, what they are doing and Feb. 20, at the Governor’s Man- ity administration and social workers. More serious issues like sociate professor of organizational what they will do related to cur- sion in Olympia. neglect, abuse and financial fraud are reported and referred to leadership and director of the rent U.S. divisiveness. A panel with Ken Stern, Barba- agencies like Adult Protective Services and Residential Care Institute for Hate Studies. Holocaust survivors Cora der ra Perry, Brian Levin and Kristine, Services. The opening reception and Koorkanian and Carla Peperzak directors from the consortium of SNAP’s program relies on volunteers like Linda, who signed panel on “Hate Reflections and will share their insights for today academic centers for the study of on in 2004. Three staff members, led by regional ombuds leader Action” will be held from 7 to in a “story court” from 6:30 to 8 hate, will discuss “Hate: Docu- Aaron Riley, provide support and training. 8:30 p.m., Sunday, March 17, in p.m., Sunday, March 31, in Hem- menting It, Understanding It and The program serves residents in Spokane, Ferry, Pend Hemmingson Auditorium. mingson Ballroom. Countering It” at 7 p.m., Monday, Oreille, Stevens and Whitman counties, a region with 27 nursing Panelists George Critchlow, Cora, whose name at birth was April 22, in Cataldo Hall, with a homes, 71 assisted living facilities and nearly 200 adult family Michael DeLand and Shannon Cora Clara Moscovici, survived live webinar. homes. The facilities account for more than 7,100 long-term Dunn, who are on the Gonzaga the Holocaust with her immedi- They will address why hate has care beds. With a broad area to cover, they constantly need faculty, will examine hate from ate family. Two brothers, taken to always been a problem, the value more volunteers. labor camps, were released in Au- of shining light on it, how current “The program’s success hinges on volunteer support,” he Grant helps LCS gust 1944, but half of her extended events help students understand said. “We have a great group on board, but we could use more.” family from northern Romania the human capacity to hate, ef- The next four-day training begins Thursday, Feb. 20, at 24-hour crisis line and France did not survive. fective ways to counter it and SNAP’s Mission Support Center, 3102 W. Fort Wright Dr. The LCS Northwest has received Carla, who was born in 1923 in how lessons from the past shape training will continue on Friday, Feb. 21, and Tuesday and a $29,600 award from the Provi- Holland, grew up in Amsterdam understanding of hate today. Wednesday, Feb. 25 and 26. dence Health Care Community dreaming of becoming a doctor. Kristine hopes participants will For information, call 456-7133 or email [email protected]. Investment Fund to help support When the Nazis invaded Holland leave considering “What would I LCS Northwest’s 24 hour crisis in 1940, she was required to have have done?” and “What can I do?” Individuals, groups can plan Mardi Bras parties line for sexual abuse, assault, ha- an ID with a large “J” on it and lat- For information, visit www. rassment and other crimes. er to wear the Star of David. She gonzaga.edu/holocaustexhibit. Individuals, congregations and organizations can host a Mardi Victim Advocates provide sup- Bras Party as a way to celebrate Fat Tuesday on Feb. 25, while port over the phone and at area collecting money, bras, underwear, pads, tampons and bus emergency rooms during forensic passes for some of more than 1,800 homeless women whose medical examinations in conjunc- struggle to meet basic needs brings them to Hope House and tion with LCS’s certified sexual the Women’s Hearth. assault nurse examiner. The Fig Tree seeks a Hope House, run by Volunteers of America of the Inland LCS Northwest’s district direc- Northwest, offers an environment of dignity, respect and com- tor Erin Williams Hueter said, “The passion that honors the intrinsic value and unique experience of Development Associate award came at a crucial time to help every woman and creates a safe space at their overnight shelter support our team on the front lines to create and implement its plan in downtown Spokane: respond to crime victims and help for revenue generation. Transitions’ Women’s Hearth as a safe space for women in them through the most traumatic The ideal candidate will a “hearth” of welcome, respect, and community in a daytime moments of their lives.” drop-in center in downtown Spokane: • be committed to The Fig Tree’s mission and values In a recent client survey, a crime Persons and organizations interested may sign up at voaspo- • have relevant development experience victim who worked with a LCS kane.org/mardibras, invite friends to a party and share infor- • be skilled in use of social media for fund raising Northwest certified crime victim mation on Hope House and the Women’s Hearth with guests, • and have strong connections advocate, said, “Everyone from VOA has ideas for the parties, including feather masks, boas, the first call to meeting with an in the Inland Northwest community. strings of beads and door prizes. advocate were kind, understand- Donations may be dropped off at 525 W 2nd Ave., at the Applications will be received until March 15. ing, helpful and willing to help VOA’s administrative office on the second floor above Cross- you feel comfortable and at ease.” Request a job description at walk Youth Shelter only between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., Fridays For information, call 747-8224. [email protected] from Feb. 10 to March 13. For information, call 688-1117 or email development@ voaspokane.org. YOU ARE INVITED TO JOIN US FOR

Deepening Connects People gonzaga.edu/mwpac | 509.313.2787 Our Roots Inspires Hope

2020 Benefit Lunch Friday, March 6, 2020 Buffet begins 11:45 a.m. • Program 12-1 p.m. Dallas String Quartet Electric 2020 Benefit Breakfast Monday, March 9, 2020 FRIDAY, FEB 14, 7:30PM Where Bach meets Bon Jovi Buffet begins 7:15 a.m. • Program 7:30-8:30 a.m. BOTH are at Cataldo Hall at Gonzaga University The breakfast and luncheon are complimentary. Guests will be invited to donate to support The Fig Tree. CALL 535-4112 or 535-1813 email [email protected] The Fig Tree, 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane WA 99202 Hiplet Ballerinas TUESDAY, FEB 18, 7:30PM ASK ABOUT HOSTING A TABLE Hip-hop + Ballet. Urban energy en pointe ! Page 4 - The Fig Tree - February 2020 Improving access to treatment, reducing suicide are among pair’s goals Continued from page 1 be my issue, not the patient’s,” chance to affect thousands of rate of incarceration, homeless- he said. lives in 2014 by being appointed ness, overdoses, drug and alcohol “It’s not fair to a patient when I to serve on a committee to carry addiction, and high suicide rate have a bad day from having a flat out Washington State House Bill are all symptoms of untreated tire or being late to work,” he said. 1424. mental illness. He knows to be aware of his bad The Washington State Legisla- Gonzaga University’s program day and separate himself from it tive passed a law requiring nurses for psychiatric nurses strives to when he is dealing with a patient and other health practitioners to address these issues. Students who just attempted suicide. complete six hours of continuing in this program can earn either a “As I have matured and had education in suicide assessment master’s or doctoral degrees. exposure to folks who live differ- in order to combat rising suicide The program is now mostly on- ent lives from my ‘house jazz,’ I rates. line courses with some on-campus realize that some of the strongest, They were on the team as- immersions to give students more most courageous people I’ve ever signed to evaluate state programs time to focus on their in-field met are some of my clients,” he to determine if they complied. training. said. For information, call 313-6484 To keep the professors up to Carol and Jeff, who both seek or email [email protected] date, they are required to stay in to lower suicide rates, had the or [email protected]. practice. Carol Kottwitz and Jeff Ramirez build sensitivity in students. “They can’t just teach in a classroom. They have to be part of was supposed to focus on medical two appointments, knowing they delivering care.” Carol explained. conditions, but I was talking to may struggle to get out of bed, be Students often come with ex- folks to find out about their lives,” thinking about killing themselves perience in the medical field, see she said. or lack access to transportation. how patients with mental illness Carol began working at Eastern She reaches out and checks up are treated and want to learn more State Hospital, which funded her on patients to make sure they’re in order to help. master’s degree. While she was okay. “We have students who have there from 1984 until 2015, she Jeff shared his background, worked in the emergency room witnessed changes in treating growing up in a Catholic family in and are driven here to earn their patients with mental illness. She the Tri-Cities, where he attended a psychiatric nurse practitioner de- said there was a major change in Catholic elementary school before gree because they didn’t like the the community perceptions about public high school and commu- HELPING YOU LIVE way patients with mental illness mental illness and approaches to nity college for a nursing degree AT HOME LONGER were being treated,” Jeff said. care within the system. and continued his education earn- A focus of this program is to Since joining the GU faculty, ing a doctorate in nursing science. WHERE YOU BELONG eliminate the stigma for mental she has started her own private He started in cardiac care at health. Gonzaga has two strategies practice. Her passion is to change Sacred Heart Medical Center, GET INFO AT ALTCEW.ORG to do this. one life at a time, whether it be her later working in management. He OR CALL 509.960.7281 First, students have to reflect on students or her patients. soon found his passion was treat- themselves. By addressing their Seeing strict rules at state hos- ing and connecting with patients biases, they gain clarity so they pitals increased Carol’s under- with mental illness. can focus on the patient instead standing of challenges people When he went to Eastern State of their own problems. with mental illness face. In her Hospital, where he first met Second, students are required private practice, she can connect Carol, he found few families to complete volunteer hours at with patients more and align busi- were around to be involved with nonprofits or charities, such as ness practices to favor patients’ the patients, and there were fewer Donate. Shop. Change a life. homeless shelters or free clinics, wellbeing. services. When you support Goodwill, you help change lives in the where they can see how serious Many think private practices Although he never served in the Inland Northwest through: untreated mental illness is. are cash pay, but she sees Medi- military, Jeff saw the high suicide • Skills assesment and training Students are to look past the care and Medicaid patients, who rate in returning veterans when • Job development stigma and see the human being may have challenges with access his niece came back from Af- • Financial education hidden by their illness, said Jeff. to care and are grateful the bus ghanistan. He wondered how he • Resume development “I tell students, when looking stop is right outside. could help. This led him to work • Housing stability for homeless and at-risk Veterans into the eyes of somebody who Often state funded practices with patients with PTSD at the • Youth Mentoring is mentally ill, psychotic or de- limit patient sessions to 15 min- Veterans Administration Medical • and more pressed, to see how the person is utes, not allowing enough time Center in Spokane. struggling,” he said. to connect and treat the patient. Jeff learned to reflect on him- INWGoodwill Carol grew up in Othello, a Some clinic policies may result in self to keep from falling into nega- www.DiscoverGoodwill.org small farming community. She denial of care because of cancella- tive stigmas about mental illness. graduated from Eastern Wash- tions or missing appointments, ef- “I have to understand my own ington University with a nursing fectively “firing” them from care. problems in order to see what’s degree before attending the Uni- Carol finds this frustrating, going on. What is going on may versity of Washington and earning considering the challenges her her master of psychiatric nursing patients face just to make it to and doctor of psychiatric nursing an appointment. She is aware practice degrees. that mental illness may impair She had always had a passion a patient’s ability to make and for psychiatric nursing. While keep appointments, many patients Order working for Sacred Heart Medical do not have their own vehicle or soup Center, she was assigned to pa- reliable transportation, and they and a tients with mental illness because face other hurdles in making ap- sandwich! she was able to connect with them. pointments. “I asked questions to under- She doesn’t believe in “fir- facebook/colesbakeryandcafe stand how they were feeling. I ing” clients because they miss 521 E. Holland #20 - 509-413-1739

TAIZÉ PRAYER NO TAIZÉ PRAYER FEBRUARY 6 Morihiko Nakahara Thursdays at 4:15 PM – The Ministry Institute invites you to pray with music, CONDUCTOR readings and silence in the style of Taizé. (Free – ALL ARE WELCOME!) Stephen Williamson CLARINET Spirituality 101 Seminars with Kathy Finley Second session begins March 16 Appalachian Spring Mondays from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM. An American in Paris Six seminars for $70, individual sessions $15 each. and more Limited scholarships available. To register, email 8PM [email protected].

For more information, contact Shonna Bartlett at 313-5765 or [email protected]. 3PM We welcome you to join us for reflection and contemplation. Sponsored by Paul & Susan Kennedy All events held at The Ministry Institute (TMI) Chapel MARTIN WOLDSON THEATER AT THE FOX 509.624.1200 | SpokaneSymphony.org 405 E Sinto, 2 blocks north of St. Aloysius Church

February 2020 - The Fig Tree - Page 5 Intern understands discrimination people seeking housing face Rachel Shomali’s work as an in- the alliance helps people facing North Hill Christian Church and tern at the Northwest Fair Housing discrimination in housing. connecting to Disciples church- Alliance is an opportunity for her “For example, if someone fac- es—North Hill and Country to talk with people experiencing es discrimination because of a Homes Christian churches. discrimination as they seek hous- disability, the alliance asks the The interns have their own ing in Spokane. landlord to make reasonable ac- rooms and share meals three times As a dual citizen of the United commodation or modifications, a week, taking turns with cooking. States and Palestine, she identifies like adding a grab bar in the “We dedicate time each week with the struggle of people facing bathroom,” she said. to the churches, helping organize discrimination, Staff analyze impediments to events and leading study pro- “I talk with people who phone fair housing based on laws, gath- grams,” said Rachel, who began to figure if the discrimination ering data on barriers impeding a in January an adult Bible study is based on one of seven class- person from finding housing in discussion telling of daily life es—race, color, national origin, any of 17 counties the agencies in Palestine under military oc- religion/creed, disability, family serves. cupation. status or gender/sex—protected When Rachel came, the alli- She helped in October with by federal and state fair housing ance had completed a survey in the church’s “Trunk or Treat” laws,” she said. Spokane on impediments. She has Halloween outreach and will par- Because she speaks Arabic, as helped do the survey for Snohom- ticipate in a regional youth retreat well as English, she takes some Rachel Shomali works with Northwest Fair Housing Alliance. ish County and Everett. in March. of the calls from Arab speakers. She also organizes files and Disciples pastor Tiffany De- Rachel has been in Spokane more, because she was stopped at finance manager. events, like an April 23 Annual Tienne is the interns’ spiritual since August 2019 as one of four checkpoints where Israeli soldiers Marley said the XPLOR intern Fair Housing Conference at the advisor, meeting with the four on young adult interns participating might search the car, check her ID last year, Emily Newsom from Spokane Convention Center. The Fridays, inviting them to reflect in the second year of the Disciples and question her. Virginia, is working with a fair conference will draw about 500 on their internships, discuss cur- of Christ’s XPLOR program, In the summer of 2017, she ac- housing organization in Chicago. property managers, social workers, rent issues such as racism and which also has sites in St. Louis, cepted the invitation of a pastor in In contrast with other volun- attorneys, real estate sales people, violence, and share how they Dallas, Hiram, Ohio and Bloom- La Mesa, Calif., near San Diego, teers and interns, XPLOR interns policy workers and civic leaders. relate to Christianity. ington, Ind. to lead adult book discussions and work 30 hours a week with the She helps write Housing Rachel, who grew up Catholic The interns live in community volunteer at a summer camp. agency for 10 months. and Urban Development (HUD) and has connected with different and serve local nonprofits: Family After graduating, Rachel ap- “That amount of time gives grants and uses her skills in mar- churches over the years, finds Promise, the Women’s Hearth and plied for XPLOR, another Disci- continuity and develops skills so keting to design posters and PR that the Disciples’ focus on social the Marilee Apartments. ples program, and worked tempo- the intern can contribute,” said materials, and to organize com- justice relates to her faith roots. “Based on my interests, I was rarily in sales at a hotel art gallery Marley, who has been with the munity forums. She especially liked the Peace matched with the Northwest Fair and bookshop in Bethlehem. agency since April 2005. “I previously had no idea how Fellowship platform to talk about Housing Alliance,” she said. “I Visiting U.S. camps and in San She had been an attorney in Fair Housing Law protected social justice and work with dif- applied to seek opportunities, Diego, she found most Americans Idaho and Washington, working people to prevent homelessness,” ferent NGOs on justice. because jobs in Palestine are open and receptive. with Idaho Legal Services and she said. For information, call 209-2670 limited.” “When a man in an adult class with the Nez Perce tribe. Her Part of XPLOR involves interns or email rachelsho328@gmail. Born in Michigan, she moved said all Palestinians are involved son was born in 2004. After her living together in a house near com. with her family to Beit Sahour in in Hamas and are terrorists, I told husband found a job in Spokane, the Bethlehem district of Palestine him that was not true,” Rachel the position opened. when she was 12. She graduated said. “I said Hamas is a political “I wanted to practice non- MAYA EARTH COFFEE from an American high school faction that started after occupa- traditional social justice law. Fair Earth friendly gourmet blend and studied at Birzeit University tion in resistance to the conflict housing with a civil rights mission Shade Grown Indigenous Coffee north of Jerusalem, graduating in and denial of human rights. She fit,” Marley said. Purchase by text, email or online December 2018 with a degree in pointed out that not all Palestin- “As a small agency director, it’s [email protected] marketing. She spent fall semes- ians are associated with it. easy to take the ball and run, but www.mayaearthcoffee.com • 509-768-3193 ter of 2017 in Bilbao, Spain, so “I told him I believe in nonvio- I need to be organized enough to she knows some Spanish, too. lent civil disobedience,” she said. delegate work,” she said. Through her affiliation with the At Northwest Fair Housing Rachel then discussed ways YWCA and YMCA in Palestine, Alliance, Rachel is on staff with and a partnership through the several from other countries. Fair Ask for Sunshine Disciples Global Ministries, she housing specialist Abdella Abdel- Recyclables piling up? learned of the Disciples Peace la from Sudan handles most of the Fellowship peace internship in the Arabic callers. Another fair hous- cardboard summer of 2016. That program ing specialist, Christina Mitma, is office paper takes college students to speak half Peruvian. She and assistant junk appliances at several Disciples camps in the director Shahrokh Nikfar, who wooden pallets U.S. She and another woman immigrated from Iran, have both shared stories about daily life in been there 16 years. www.EarthworksRecycling.com terms of culture, food and music, Others on the staff are Marley (509) 534-1638 and also about life in Palestine, Hochendorner, executive director, CALL ABOUT OUR PICKUP SERVICE (509) 926-3547 | shfi.com Israel and under occupation. Shannon Bedard, fair housing 1904 E Broadway-Spokane They told of Palestinians hav- specialist, and Peggy Rolando, ing limited rights and restricted movement, encountering the wall through the West Bank and checkpoints every day. “The West Bank is like Swiss cheese, with Palestinian villages and Israeli settlements cut by some roads that are only for Is- raelis,” Rachel said. Birzeit University, north of Jerusalem, should be 30 minutes away, but often took her an hour or

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For information, maps, nature walks go to DishmanHills.org Page 6 - The Fig Tree - February 2020 Ferris student calls for seeing King’s dream 20/20 through a new lens Saron Legesse Zemedkun, presi- liberties, a seat on a bus, fair hous- “Internalized colorism and tiana Jefferson. dent of the Black Student Union ing, employment opportunities systemic racism” affect status and “Social injustice is a threat and student at Ferris High School, and voting rights. create assumptions so being black to us and the fabric of the U.S. read an original essay, “The Dream Has his dream “become blurred means to some being a criminal, Constitution when we ignore it,” Through a New Lens” during the or do we need new lenses to see she said, pointing out that King she said, challenging those who Martin Luther King Jr. Day Rally that change has come, disguised believed “injustice anywhere is are silent and inviting America Jan. 20. She moved to Spokane as equality with no equity?” Saron a threat to justice everywhere.” into a future where “peace and from Ethiopia in East Africa when asked, noting that “we are not Blacks are “the most unprotect- love overpower evil and hatred” she was four years old. equal” until there is equal value ed race in America,” resulting in a and where all people regardless of With this year being 2020, “the to minority businesses, equal pay high mortality rate for black males ethnicity, gender, sexual orienta- numerical expression for healthy for women, and government hir- ages 15 to 34, who are nine times tion or political belief “can stand vision,” she asked, “Through what ing reflects demographics—“as more likely than other Americans united and honor the creed that all lens do we see America?” simple as school teachers and to be killed by law enforcement. are created equal.” Saron said King dreamed in administrators who look like me.” “We are constantly told how to Saron said the expression that 1963 of a day when former slaves As a young black woman, she walk, talk and dress so we don’t Black Lives Matter will not be of- and former slave owners would is troubled by African Americans draw suspicious advances,” Saron fensive when there is equal value sit together in brotherhood, and experiencing deprivation and de- said. to expressions that white lives, people would be judged by char- spair because of being labeled by King was not silent about the blue lives, brown, yellow and red acter, not skin color. mainstream society. Saron Zemedkun killings of Emmett Till or Medgar lives matter. In the America he saw, blacks “Black Americans have to work Evers, or about lynchings or Jim “All lives matter,” she said, were denied equal rights, civil twice as hard to get half as far as white colleagues,” she said. Crowe laws. calling for marching for free- Her generation is frowned on dom, looking through lenses for challenging the killings of with “20/20 vision of an America Travon Martin, Eric Gardner, where everyone has a right to NAACP leader calls people to link arms Michael Brown, Sandra Bland, life, liberty and the pursuit of Kiantha Duncan spoke at the person in the world. Tamir Rice, Botham Jean or Ata- happiness.” 2020 MLK Day rally on behalf “That means we are to care for of the NAACP Spokane, making those who are homeless and those a point that it’s not just an orga- who are housed. We are to care nization for poor people or black for immigrants seeking refuge people. and those who were born here. “It’s your organization whoever We are to care for all members of you are,” she said, inviting people the LGBTQ community. We are to become involved. to care for people in prisons, even She invited people in the Con- those who committed crimes,” vention Center to connect elbows Kiantha said. or join hands to symbolize the “King did not exclude anyone. connection of each person in the He was for all of us,” she said, room as they honor King. inviting people to look at those “I hope we live his beliefs and sitting beside them and say, “You dreams every day,” said Kiantha, are important to the world, to who is program manager with the Spokane community and the Empire Health. “If not, we need global community.” to check ourselves. We need to Kiantha advised for people to look out for others, including care about their brothers and sis- Kiantha Duncan people we do not know.” ters, not just themselves because Linking arms, she said, dem- the times may change, and the one one, and it may be hard to come onstrates what connectedness in they do not care about “may one together, but if we do that, if we the community looks like for all day be the one to care about us.” stay connected and care about all humankind—“everybody in here Some are conservative and individuals in the community and and everybody not in here. It’s some are liberal, she said. world, Spokane can change the about our shared goal for every “We may disagree with some- world,” Kiantha said.

MARCH 6, 2020 Chaplain says past informs young for present SpokaneValley Mall Continued from page 1 need to show the next generation the betterment of humankind. We & NorthtownMall to the vision of a land where each of leaders what it means to be a need to involve young people in Walk to end senior hunger in Spokane County! person is judged by the content ‘Beloved Community,’ not just our community and show them of their character not the color of marching hand-in-hand today, but there is love and kindness today, Lace up your shoes and help us take a giant step forwardto help fightsenio r isolation and hunger in Spokane County. their skin,” she said. “We need to when the day is over. We need tomorrow and in the future.” Sign up as an individual or team. tell young people to have coura- to show them we will take action Stephy quoted King: “Tomor- Support the Greater Spokane County Meals on Wheels mission, geous conversations about dis- against racial injustice, not just row is today. We are confronted win prizes and get moving to stamp out senior hunger. crimination, racism and inequality. today, but the next day and the with the fierce urgency of now “As the next generation, they next day and the next. and if we are waiting, the right Form ore infog o to GSCMealsonWheels.org/Events will carry the mantle. If we don’t “Will we make it more than time is NOW.” teach them about the past, it will just one day on? Make every She closed saying, “That’s why repeat itself. We need to use the day a day to make a difference we need to keep our eyes on the past to inform young people how in our community. We need to prize.” they talk about the present and the do something different today, For information, call 777-4568 YOU MATTER future,” Stephy continued. “We tomorrow and in the future for or email [email protected]. GET COUNTED

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February 2020 - The Fig Tree - Page 7 MLK Day is a chance to pass on the legacy and history of civil rights Since he was a boy, Martin efforts and economic boycotts. not waiver or change course be- Luther King Jr. Day was James • Fanny Lou Hamer was a cause of fear. God gave him the Watkins’ favorite time of year. champion of civil rights and Spirit to live. “It has been one time a year women’s rights. “I do not separate King and when the city goes color blind • John Lewis, who led the Christ. We honor King. We honor and greets everyone in love as Bloody Sunday march from Christ,” he said. we celebrate the Rev. Dr. King,” Selma to Montgomery, said he “I look to the ground crew for he said, speaking for the annual carried four books, an apple and civil rights who have been around Commemoration Celebration Jan. an orange, because he expected for a long time,” he said, turning 19 at Holy Temple Church of God to go to jail. He has represented to name some local civil rights in Christ. Georgia 17 terms in the House of heroes, the Rev. James and Lydia James is pastor of New Hope Representatives. He recently an- Sims, and Carl Maxey. Baptist Church, along with serv- nounced he has pancreatic cancer. “As long as I stand, I continue ing as a lieutenant at Airway • Another civil rights leader, to do the work they started,” he Heights Correction Center. U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings of said. In introducing him at the ser- Maryland, died in October. “The next generation is fall- vice, Walter Kendricks, pastor of “They understood the need to ing behind. They need to hear Morningstar Baptist Church and take the message of civil rights to the message about civil rights,” president of the Spokane Minis- the culture,” said James. he said. “I stand on the shoulders ters Alliance—which co-spon- The Rev. James Watkins told of the need to educate youth. “The Rev. Dr. King had a prayer of giants who passed the message sored the service with the Martin life second to none,” he added. to my generation. We need to be Luther King Jr. Family Outreach who do not look like us to be our • Julian Bond, a civil rights “He was close to God. For Christ true to King’s message to love one Center—said he admired James neighbor and step out of their leader, NAACP leader, politician, he lived. For Christ he died. Noth- another as we love ourselves. We for filling the shoes of a legend, comfort zone?” he said. professor and writer, helped found ing could separate Dr. King from are the ground crew.” his father Happy Watkins, who is James believes King heard the SNCC and Southern Poverty Christ. His church was bombed. For information, call 868-0856 now pastor emeritus. that scripture as a boy. The son Law Center. His house was bombed. He did or visit mlkspokane.org. Every year, Happy has recited of college-educated parents, King “How many of our children King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, at 15 graduated from high school know about them?” James asked. which instilled in James the im- and entered Morehouse Col- “Do we know our history?” Councilwoman sworn in at celebration portance of the holiday for passing lege, graduating in 1948 at 19. He continued listing names. Opening the service, Lonnie Mitchell, pastor of Bethel African on the legacy and history of civil He earned a master of divinity • Stokely Carmichael, Kwame Methodist Episcopal Church asserted that the bullet that killed King rights to the next generation. degree in 1951, married Coretta Ture, a militant socialist organizer did not destroy the movement, because on Martin Luther King Jr. Now it’s James’ turn as father Scott in 1953 in Alabama, and of the civil rights movement in the Day, folks across America hold hands and celebrate King’s life and grandfather to tell the story, earned a doctoral degree from U.S. and the global Pan-African and work, and celebrate our diversity and unity in the community. which he shared in the context of Boston University in 1955, when movement. Lonnie expressed gratitude for Spokane celebrating diversity and a Scripture lesson. he became pastor at Dexter Ave. • Malcolm X, an American meaning it. An example was that Spokane City Council recently James read from Luke 10 the Baptist Church. Muslim minister and human rights choose Betsy Wilkerson to fill the vacant seat of Council President story of the Good Samaritan. Soon after that Rosa Parks sat in activist, described the choice Breean Beggs. She is the first African American in 20 years—fol- A lawyer asked Jesus what he the bus, “so King would march so between King and himself as the lowing Roberta Greene—to serve on City Council. As part of the needed to do to inherit eternal life. Obama would run,” he quipped. choice “between the ballot or the service, the Honorable George Fearing swore her into her new role. Jesus asked him what the law said. King rallied pastors to act—to bullet.” He said to love God with all “your start the Montgomery bus boycott Going back in history, James strength, soul and mind, and to to improve society. The work for listed some other examples: love your neighbor as yourself.” civil rights led to the Civil Rights • Frederick Douglas went from When he asked Jesus who his Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights being a slave to being an aboli- What is a Quaker, anyway? neighbor was, Jesus told the story Act of 1965. tionist. If you don’t know, come to learn. of the Good Samaritan, helping “King believed in agitating and • W.E.B. Dubois, who was the 10 a.m., Sundays in February a man robbed, stripped and left legislating,” said James, telling of first African American to earn a to die on the road to Jericho. A him sitting beside Ralph Aberna- doctoral degree from Harvard, led Spokane Friends Church priest and Levite passed by, but a thy on a plane one day, looking out the Niagara Movement and later 1612 W. Dalke Samaritan—an outsider despised the window and saying, ‘We can helped form the NAACP. Join us to discuss by Jews—acted in mercy. never forget the ground crew’— • Medgar Evers, a civil rights what it means to be a Quaker today. “The underlying issues we face all who came before.” leader in Mississippi who was today are hostility, racism and So James listed some of the shot by a sniper bullet in his www.spokanefriends.com classism, almost more than in the “ground crew” for the civil rights driveway for his voter-registration time of King,” James said, com- movement, saying “we need to menting that “the priest and dea- know about them.” con passed by the man who was • Ella Baker helped found the robbed, but the Samaritan—one Southern Christian Leadership # not liked in society—one whose Conference and Student Nonvio- Our Community’s 1 Choice heart is filled with sympathy and lent Coordinating Committee. pity. He bound his wounds, pour- • James Baldwin was an Ameri- in Hospice Care ing wine and oil, and took the man can novelist, playwright and to the inn, paying two denarii, activist exploring racial, sexual enough for 24 days, so the man and class differences. could recuperate. • Daisy Bates played a leading “How many of us would do role in the Little Rock Integration that? How many of us see folks Crisis of 1957.

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www.n-sid-sen.org • 208-689-3489 Dignity. Trust. Compassion. 36395 S Highway 97, Harrison, Idaho 83833 509.456.0438 hospiceofspokane.org Page 8 - The Fig Tree - February 2020 Holocaust survivor recognizes witness of a survivor who died recently As Holocaust survivors die, In 2015, she testified in Ger- “forgiveness from the Lord.” Cora der Koorkanian of Congre- many at the trial of former Nazi Eva appreciated that he testi- gation Emanu-El in Spokane be- Oskar Gröning, 93. He admitted fied truthfully about what had lieves it’s important to recognize his complicity in the mass exter- happened, and she thanked him. witness they have given. mination of Jews and asked for For information, call 838-3304. This summer, Cora learned that Eva Mozes Kor, one of the “Mengele twins,” had died July MOVING? 4 in Krákow, Poland, at the age WE ARE ABSOLUTELY THE BEST! of 85. • Full-time trained movers After learning of Eva’s death, www.danthepianoman.com • Trucks & all equipment provided Cora spoke about her friendship • No move too small. • No move too big.

and memories of Eva at a lun- Free written estimates! cheon at Temple Beth Shalom. Senior discounts Licensed & Insured “I had wanted to bring Eva to CALL TODAY: 509-928-4738 Spokane to speak, so sharing her story in a memorial was one way Cora der Koorkanian finds photo of her nursing class in Israel. I could bring her here,” she said. Eva died while leading an that Eva’s sister Miriam often of twins Josef Mengele used in educational trip with Children of smiled, but a classmate from doing genetic medical experi- Auschwitz Nazi Death Lab Exper- Belgium never smiled. Her mood ments. He changed the color of iments Survivors (CANDLES), was always “like foul weather,” eyes, transplanted uteruses, did which she founded in 1984. Cora said. experiments without anesthesia She made the trip annually to During their studies, Cora met and more. Many died as a result share her experiences and her Eva, who served in a different of the experiments. perspectives as a Holocaust sur- branch of the military. At first, Eva was chosen as the vivor, which she wrote about in “I felt close to both of them, “control” and Miriam underwent her book, Surviving the Angel of because I was born in 1934, three experiments on her kidneys. Then Helping area non-profits Death. days before they were born. Like Miriam was the control when they Cora said that Eva, who for- me, they were also born in Roma- inoculated Eva with a bacteria or gave Mengele, explained in her nia, but in Transylvania. We joked virus that made her very ill for grow & prosper book and a 2006 documentary, that we were almost triplets,” said several months. “Forgiving Dr. Mengele,” that Cora, whose great grandparents Eva survived “by sheer will she found it better to forgive than had fled pogroms persecuting power,” Cora said, and helped to live with hate, because “hate is Jews in Russia in the 1840s and Miriam survive. like a cancer.” had settled in Romania. When the Soviet Army liber- “She had realized that for her Through World War II and the ated the camp on Jan. 12, 1945, to live a healthy life, she had to Holocaust, her family lived in only 180 children, most of them forgive,” Cora said. Bucharest, bribing local officials twins, were alive. Many had died “I do not hate people who in order to survive. Two brothers from experiments. harmed me and my family in were sent to labor camps in 1942. Miriam became a nurse, lived Bucharest,” Cora said. “They In 1950, after Communists took in Israel and had three children. took our assets and house. Half of power in Romania, she left to live Later, when her kidneys were my family who lived in Northern in Israel where she met Miriam giving out, Eva gave Miriam one Romania died. and Eva. of her kidneys, so she could live “Eva’s positive attitude spoke Cora later worked with the longer. Miriam died in 1993 at to me. She was given lemons, so World Health Organization in the age of 59. she made lemonade,” Cora said. Brazil before marrying an Ameri- For many years, Cora did not “There is no room in our lives can foreign service officer. They know where Eva was. for bitterness. We need to walk settled in Manchester, N.H. Eva married Michael Kor, an Compassionate pricing forward positively. She forgave Cora last saw Eva in April American citizen and Holocaust with superior service. for her suffering. So do I.” 2014 at Manchester, where Eva survivor, and came to the United “Eva was a powerhouse with had spoken at Cora’s invitation States in 1960. In 1965, she be- a sheer will to live and make the at an interfaith gathering with two came a U.S. citizen. best of life. She inspired me. I Jewish synagogues and a Presby- In 1978, after an NBC minise- (509)467-5496 want to keep her memory alive,” terian church. ries, “The Holocaust,” Eva and holycrossofspokane.org she said. “The room was packed. As Miriam, who were living in Israel, Aware that genocide continues she spoke for an hour, it was so began locating other twins. They around the world, Cora learned silent you could hear a pin drop,” located 170 surviving twins living to forgive without forgetting or Cora said. around the world. A NON-PROFIT MINISTRY OF THE hating. The year after she spoke, Cora In 1984, Eva, who has two CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF While living in Israel and study- bought 18 copies of Eva’s book, children, founded the CANDLES 7200 N. Wall, Spokane, WA 99208 SPOKANE ing to be a nurse in the army Surviving the Angel of Death, to Holocaust Museum and Educa- HOLY CROSS ST. JOSEPH QUEEN OF PEACE from 1953 to 1956, one of her take with her to a reunion of class- tion Center in Terre Haute, Ind. MEETING THE NEEDS OF THE FAITHFUL: FUNERAL | CREMATION | CEMETERY | FAMILY ESTATES classmates was Miriam Mozes mates in Israel. Eva had signed The center, which her son Zeiger, Eva’s twin sister, who had every book with the names of her now runs, educates people about also been involved in Mengele’s sister’s classmates, half of whom eugenics, the Holocaust and the experiments in Auschwitz. were also Holocaust survivors. power of forgiving. “I didn’t know Miriam’s story Cora told Eva’s story. In 2007, Eva persuaded Indi- until one day she became very Eva and Miriam were 10 when ana state legislators to require sick and told me,” Cora said, not- they were taken to Auschwitz. Holocaust education in secondary BIG CHANGES ing that many Holocaust survivors Dressed alike, they were identified schools. just wanted to live “normal lives” as twins. They were separated from She was featured in a 2015 and did not want to speak about their parents and two older sisters, CNN documentary, “Voices of are coming to the horrors they experienced. whom they never saw again. Auschwitz,” and a 2016 produc- Cora realizes some survivors They were among 1,500 sets tion, “Incredible Survivors.” cannot forgive. She remembers STA ROUTES! 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Hawthorne Rd. 509-334-7898 509-466-0411 Mon-Fri 11 am-6 pm www.rockwoodretirement.org Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5 independent • assisted • skilled nursing • memory care February 2020 - The Fig Tree - Page 9 Center for Justice responds to vulnerable people, community’s needs fter 15 years in Seattle as tively few nationwide, but when clearing encampments,” Dainan a bankruptcy, consumer, they happen, we want the police said. “Usually they pick up all Adebtor/creditor, foreclo- department to be forthcoming personal belongings and throw sure, real estate and tax attorney, about their use of force and poli- them in a trash truck, as they did Dainen Penta came to head the cies,” he said. with Camp Hope. That practice Center for Justice in Spokane in Dainen realizes that even when raises issues about due process.” January 2019 to address the “sea police and schools change poli- The second case challenged of need” he met in those cases. cies, education is needed to change the city not to put Proposition 1 “I wanted to have impact on the the culture and people’s hearts. on the ballot. The measure said bigger world as a ‘community’ He respects that police officers city employees or police were to lawyer to resolve community and first responders put their ask people for their immigration problems,” he said. “Legal work lives on the line every day as they or citizenship status, and report to should be led and informed by the encounter people struggling with immigration authorities. community.” mental health and addiction. He The center won in Spokane The Center for Justice both pro- knows that many officers want Superior Court in 2017. The State vides free legal services for people accountability spelled out, so he Appeals Court ruled it was unjust living in poverty, experiencing urges the Police Guild to work and should be kept off the ballot. homelessness, or struggling with with the Police Ombuds Office and The State Supreme Court decided mental health or addiction, and participate in implicit bias training. not to hear the case, upholding the advocates for changes in the Dainen Penta guides efforts for criminal justice reform. “Just because someone is a appeals court. criminal justice system. suspect or accused of a crime does “That underscores how courts “The pressing issue in Spokane my own humanity as I work with For 10 years, Virla Spencer, a not mean his/her rights go away,” are a check on illegal actions,” and the U.S. is for criminal justice clients. I believe every individual non-lawyer advocate, has worked he said. Dainen said. reform, which involves both help- is of infinite worth. with courts to set payments of $25 The center includes Spokane The center, unlike some non- ing people return to society after “Many people grow up in to $50 a month so people can have Riverkeeper, which protects the profits, accepts no federal and incarceration, and working for churches and the values are wo- their licenses restored. She also river’s health through education, little or no state funding, so it is police and government account- ven into their fabric. I see biblical helps drivers find insurance and river cleanup and trash pickups, “free to respond to community ability,” Dainen said. leaders as humanitarians,” he said. understand what they need to do and advocacy to hold polluters needs quickly and can sue the A 2013 state survey found that “A Franciscan friar taught me that to keep their licenses. She serves and governments accountable. government,” said Dainen, whose only one in 10 low-income people ‘the Divine in me is to recognize more than 500 people a year. “We pick up trash for homeless role includes securing grants and have help when they have legal the Divine in you.’ Other groups around the U.S people camping by the river, go- donations. problems. “At the Center for Justice, we see this Center for Justice program ing with representatives of SNAP In 1999, Jim Sheehan founded “It’s not just low-income peo- address imbalances with corpora- as a model they want to replicate. and Frontier Behavioral Health to the Center for Justice to help ple. Few realize there are legal tions and wealthy people having • The Smart Justice Coalition connect them to services. people falling through the cracks. components to problems they immense access to courts and believes jail is an expensive, inef- Dainen told of two cases the It began as legal services for those face, and a lawyer can help,” he lawyers. Too often it’s about how fective way to reduce crime and Center for Justice recently liti- who could not afford an attorney. said. “We serve people from 0 to much justice a person can afford. make the community safe, said gated. Many know it for challenging 400 percent of the poverty level.” We want to level the playing field. Cam Zorrozua, who heads the Representing homeless groups police in the 2006 fatal beating In 1994, Dainen, the Korean- If someone can’t afford a lawyer, Smart Justice and Criminal Justice and nonprofits, it took the case of of Otto Zehm, bringing changes born son of a Longview attorney, the impact may be permanent and Reform Programs. They work for Camp Hope, the tent city on the in police policy. first came to Spokane to study at damaging.” a just, effective regional criminal sidewalk outside Spokane City “Every day, we ask, ‘What Whitworth on recommendation of Dainen said the center’s ser- justice system with alternatives to Hall in December 2018. The can we do to help make Spokane a friend in a non-denominational vices and staff help people re- incarceration, including treatment Ninth Circuit Court in Boise had a better place?’ We do not lose church he attended. While major- solve housing disputes, restore and support services to break the ruled if there were no shelters hope, because we know we help ing in international studies and their driver’s licenses, clear their cycle of crime, save money and open, police could not tear down people and make a difference for French, he studied for a semester criminal records, reduce legal meet victims’ needs. such camps. the community,” he said. in southern France. financial obligations and protect The center helps people erase— “In that case, we ask the City For information, call 835-5211 Being open with friends at the the Spokane River. vacate or expunge—past convic- of Spokane to be sensitive when or email [email protected]. Christian university about being • The housing justice program tions, and reduce legal financial gay, he valued the acceptance he holds legal clinics on landlord-ten- obligations because laws let peo- experienced. ant relations and tenants’ right to ple overcome their past, Dainen After graduating in 1997, Dainen safe, healthy, affordable housing. said. “People are amazed that’s worked with the Oregon Health Housing attorney Matthew possible after they have been Sciences University while applying Larsen serves about 60 people prosecuted, convicted and served to Lewis and Clark Law School. a week. He helps tenants avoid time. It opens doors to jobs and He graduated in 2001 and com- evictions and negotiates with housing. pleted a master’s in tax law in 2002 landlords to resolve problems— The Spokane City Council in at the University of Washington. like doing repairs to meet health 2017 and Washington state in He went home to Longview to and safety standards to avoid go- 2018 passed ban-the-box laws, work as a lawyer with his father, ing to court. prohibiting employers from ask- passed the bar exam and started • The relicensing program ing job applicants about past to practice there. resolves unpaid tickets to end in- arrests or convictions until it’s de- In 2004, he moved to Seattle, definite suspension of licenses for termined if the person is qualified. where he had his own practice and failure to pay traffic fines people Employers and landlords would worked with several small firms. can’t afford. not first see a person’s record. Along with practicing bankruptcy “It’s hard to live in Spokane “We keep an eye on police law, foreclosure defense, defend- without a driver’s license,” said related to use of force and the 7 3/4” ing people against debt collectors Dainen. “People need to drive to number of people of color stopped and protecting consumers, he did go to work, pick up their children and in jail,” Dainen said. “African real estate work representing con- and shop for groceries. When Americans are over-represented in dominium and home-owner as- people drive with a suspended jails compared to their proportion sociations, often using mediation. license and are pulled over, they in Spokane’s population.” 1 IMAGE

“I went to law school with the are ticketed for driving with a The center also monitors dis-

idea of helping people and doing suspended license, compounding parities of discipline in public 5” good work to make a living,” he fines. Suspended licenses add school students with disabilities COVER said. “In work with the Center to poverty, unemployment and and students of color. for Justice, I am in touch with incarceration.” “Use of force incidents are rela- Celebrate Fat Tuesday Thank you by Dan KeberleJazz - Jazz Orchestra Mass and St. Mark’s Choir for your generous Preacher: Rabbi Tamar Malino support!

Ce Temple Beth Shalom Spokane Tuesday, Feb. 25 - 7 p.m. St. Mark’s Lutheran Church CATHOLIC CHARITIES 24th & Grand Blvd. CHRISTMAS COLLECTION 2019 The tradition of Fat Tuesday (Shrove Tuesday) is to feast on fat things before the lean weeks of Lent. www.cceasternwa.org Page 10 - The Fig Tree - February 2020

Editorial Reflections Who will challenge injustices, inequities? Our neighbors right here! Who’s going to step out of their comfort Rico. There were gunshots outside the What are we doing? What will we do? Who will challenge us to see with clear zones and speak out for justice and equality Richard Allen Apartments next to The Fig Questions from the upcoming Holocaust vision so we respect all lives? as Martin Luther King Jr. did? Who’s going Tree office. Troubles are not just far away. exhibit are relevant today. Who will challenge us to link arms and to be the voice for freedom in these times? They are right outside our doors and inside Martin Luther King Jr. risked his life to act together for justice every day? Who’s going to challenge corruption, deceit our doors. speak the truth to win civil rights,as have Who will challenge us to learn from the and hegemony? The news rages with more breaking many others through the centuries. We past so we make life better? Who is going to step out and step up? news, more bad weather, more crime re- need movement leaders, educators and Who will call us to speak out when we Who in God’s name will God raise up? ports, more troubles. How can we take any advocates? see hate and genocide? Are you ready when God does that? more? Remember, the news happens, but Who will challenge pipelines, polluters Who will make sure the vulnerable have Will we be too confused by the slander- it is often about the unusual, the conflict, and plastic to stand up for climate justice? legal protections? ous name calling, belittling and bickering? the celebrity, the sensation. Who will challenge racial inequities in Who will challenge white supremacy and Will we be able to see truth in the midst of The news is crucial as it covers econom- our community? educate their communities on human rights? the deluge of information? ic, political, social, religious and cultural Who will challenge stigma on mental We are not alone. Those who shared their Australia is burning. Indonesia is flood- realities. We need to be informed so we illness and reach out to care? stories and efforts in this issue are among ing. Hurricanes are raging. Earthquakes care, voice concerns, protest, act and vote. Who will challenge housing discrimina- the many people who do care and act. compound hurricane damage in Puerto What would have done in the Holocaust? tion and open doors? Mary Stamp - editor Faith community shares hope for creation leading to Expo ‘74’s 50th Just after Easter this year, Whitworth a purchaser’s guide to environmentally Area resource leaders will help us ask: dral art guild will host an environmental art University’s Office of Church Engagement friendly companies. How will we adapt our agriculture practices exhibit of works by Spokane area artists. and St. John’s Episcopal Cathedral will host As part of an Evensong contempla- as climate changes? How will Avista man- The event is for civic leaders, nonprofit a conference called “Hope for Creation.” tive service on Friday, the Spokane Tribe age new patterns of run-off? How does organizations, faith communities, business It is designed to share a vision of hope for and Dean Heather VanDeventer will open living under the cloud of climate change people and engaged citizens, young and creation; showcase local caretakers of land, the program. That evening, Bill Youngs, affect psychological wellbeing? What are old, conservative and liberal—all points water and air, and renew Spokane’s leader- professor of history at Eastern Washington effects of climate change on health? What of view are needed, and the dignity of each ship on environmental care. University and author of The Fair and the species in our area are at risk? What tech- person will be respected. As we near the 50th anniversary of Expo Falls, will speak on “Expo ‘74: The Envi- nologies are available today to draw down The Hope for Creation Conference ’74, we now live with daily news about ronment Then and Now.” Expo set founda- the CO2 in the air? starts the four-year lead up to renew Spo- climate change. We wonder what we can tions for care of the air, land and water. Can Spokane build a circular economy to kane’s leadership on the environment to do to preserve the natural environment for The event will include theological reflec- minimize waste? How is the water quality celebrate Expo ‘74’s 50th anniversary. The our children and their children. tion on Saturday with Whitworth theology of Lake Coeur d’Alene changing? Can we Conference provides a venue to develop Spokane’s Expo ’74 was the first professor Jonathan Moo speaking on “Cre- capture methane from waste treatment fa- networks of persons with common interests world’s fair dedicated to the environment. ation Care: Bridging Science and Faith.” cilities? What needs to be done to clean up for subsequent work. It called attention to environmental issues He has written a book cataloguing biblical the tailings of the Midnight uranium mine? The steering committee includes Eliza- and helped to shape the consciousness of teachings about care for creation and he has High school students and young adults beth Abbey of Whitworth University; the Spokane community. a doctorate in wildlife biology, living the a will discuss the future natural environment Breean Beggs and Lori Kinnear of Spokane The Hope for Creation Conference on balance of faith and science he will discuss. they will live in—their hopes, priorities City Council; Pat Munts, WSU extension Friday. and Saturday, April 17 and 18, at After lunch, co-author Kara Odegard and expectations when they take the reins. specialist and Spokesman Review colum- the cathedral, 127 E. 12th Ave., opens with will present “A Report on the Spokane The last session is for the faith com- nist; Jennifer Ogden, Spokane Park Board information sharing by local groups who Community Adaptation Project.” The just- munity: What does faith teach about care vice president and St. John’s parishioner; are actively working for harmonious living completed study commissioned by the City for the environment? How does faith give Mike Petersen, Lands Council executive di- in our environment. of Spokane used a program developed at us hope and direction? How does faith rector; Lenore Three Stars (Oglala Lakota), It’s amazing what is happening to clean Oregon State University and input from cli- call us into action? Leaders from Catholic, Reconciliation Calling Community, Native up the Spokane River, protect backyard mate scientists at University of Washington Evangelical Christian, Native American Tribes; Heather VanDeventer, Dean of St pollinators, compost with worms, plant and University of Idaho to predict effects and Islamic faith communities will share John’s Cathedral, and Joe Wittwer, pastor new trees, develop cooperative businesses, of climate change on Spokane. on the centrality of faith to uphold Hope Life Center Church. expand community gardens, manage wild- Saturday sessions address technologies for Creation. The formal program ends John Wallingford life habitat, reduce food waste, turn waste to put us back into harmony with nature; Saturday afternoon with sharing ideas and Cathedral of St. John into energy, restore salmon migration and social actions to take, and how faith helps proposals for consideration by elected lead- whitworth.edu/hopeforcreation reduce our plastic footprint. There’s also us face the environmental challenges. ers. Throughout the Conference, the Cathe- [email protected]

Letter to the Editor Sounding Board Commentary

Comments offered on indigenous women, Australia’s fires, open doors, Methodist unity I enjoyed reading the article sure any assistance is put to best use. A with several doors left open all the time. A a way to either walk more loosely with in the January edition of the Fig Tree high- good channel exists with Australia when thought came to mind: “Frozen pipes and each other—and accepting our theological lighting the efforts of Margo Hill with the requests were made. open doors. Frozen hearts and open doors. diversity at some level—or part ways with Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women The PDA is a member of the ACT Al- Hearts of sadness, turmoil, fear, loneliness a blessing for those unable to “walk with” (MMIW) movement. The Fig Tree’s re- liance, (Action by Churches Together), and open doors and open hearts.” those they disagree with on these issues. porting was more extensive than an earlier which consists of some 150 international There are certainly a number of ways This proposal was an attempt to negotiate article in the Inlander. Through it, I gained faith-based organizations who coordinate to say and imagine this as we consider some of the terms of what it might look like a better appreciation of the gravity of the international assistance. The Australian those in need physically, spiritually and to “part ways with a blessing.” circumstances indigenous women face. Lutheran World Service, a member of ACT, emotionally. There are a number of ways to Some national and local news articles I have known Margo for several years knows they will ask for assistance. consider how we might bring more warmth made it sound like an actual split in the through her work with Eastern Washington As we await their requests, we can pray to the world—the same warmth brought UMC was announced, leading to many University’s Urban and Regional Planning constantly for our sisters and brothers there, to us over 2,000 years ago. To paraphrase misunderstandings, but this is merely one program and have always admired her dedi- in California and in so many other places local utility companies, “Let’s share the more plan that will need to go before the cation to her profession and the students at that are having horrific experiences. warmth!” General Conference in May 2020, where the university. Mike Bullard Pastor Dolores Ford, interim pastor our future will hopefully become clearer. The Fig Tree did an outstanding job Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Country Homes Christian Church I encourage folks to stay informed by giving me insight in Margo’s powerful National Response Team United Methodist sources of news. A con- contributions to her tribe, her people and News released about the United ference newsletter detailed many resources the greater community. We should all be Due to very cold weather re- Methodist Church on Friday, Jan. 3 has pertaining to the plan. proud to have her serving this region. cently in Spokane, the management of the raised questions among pastors and lay- The newsletter can be requested at in- Karl Otterstrom, Spokane apartment complex where I live distributed persons in the Inland District or the Pacific [email protected]. notices to each tenant concerning steps to Northwest Annual Conference. The article on the protocol is at umnews. As part of the Presbyterian Di- be taken to prevent freezing pipes in the The shorthand for the plan that was org/en/news/diverse-leaders-group-offers- saster Assistance (PDA) National Response apartments. In each apartment, every faucet released is “The Protocol,” in which a separation-plan. The website has links to Team, I’ve been asked about assistance to needed to be slightly opened in order to drip group of 16 theologically diverse United the test and FAQs. Australia. Australia is a highly developed water, and sink cabinet doors were to be left Methodists from around the world pri- All in all, I encourage us to continue country and is currently mobilizing its open at all times to bring in more warmth vately gathered and negotiated some terms to pray for our world, our church and our own resources. With so many disasters for the pipes. So I complied. The faucets that may have an impact the future of our vital ministries that we don’t want to see around the world every dollar must be man- were always set to drip, and the appropriate denomination. damaged in a transitional period. aged wisely so we do not send help until doors are left ajar. At charge conferences throughout the Gregg Sealey, Inland District churches involved make specific requests. As I took part in this maintenance ritual, fall, I spoke with district churches about of the Pacific Northwest United Working through the churches, we make I noticed how unusual the apartment looked how we are going to need to figure out Methodist Church February 2020 - The Fig Tree - Page 11

Calendar of Events C & H Foreign Auto Repair E. 620 North Foothills Dr. Spokane, WA 99207 Jan 30 • Homeless Connect,” Spokane Convention 8 p.m., hbpaspokane.net EDWARD W. CUSHMAN 487-9683 OR 484-5221 Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd., 10 a.m. to 3 • “Cabin Fever Series: An African Safari,” p.m., spokanehc.com Sportsman and photographer Nick Ogden, • Spokane Jewish Cultural Film Festival, Northtown Mall near Kohls, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. “Fiddler: A Miracle of Miracles,” Wolff Auditorium Feb 13 • Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ) book in Jepson, Gonzaga University, 7 p.m., sajfs.org/ discussion of Chapter 12 from White Fragility, 35 Join the our-programs/sjcff W. Main, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Jan 31-Feb 9 • “Dancing at Lughnasa, Myrtle Woldson Feb 14 • Dallas String Quartet Electric, Myrtle Woldson Black Lens Performing Arts Center, 211 E. DeSmet Ave, Performing Arts, Gonzaga, 7:30 p.m., 313-2787 as we celebrate our 6 p.m., reception, 7:30 p.m.; Jan 30 - benefit Feb 15 • “The Soul of Soul Food,” Douglas Williams performance for Our Place, 326-7267, office@ owner of Dot’s Soul Food, Northtown Mall near 5th year in print. ourplacespokane.org Kohls, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Feb 1 • To Shalimar: Art Inspired by Toni Morrison’s • “Views of the Divinity of Christ,” Garrett Kenney Anniversary Open House Literature, Spokane Public Library, 524 S. Stone, of Eastern Washington University religious studies 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. program, Northtown Mall near Kohls, 3 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11 - 6-8 p.m. • “Building Community by Dialoguing Through Nov 17 • NAACP General Membership Meeting, The Gathering House Difference,” Spokane FAVs Coffee Talk, Scott Community Building 35 W. Main, 7 p.m., Starbuck of Manito Presbyterian and Gonzaga [email protected] 733 W. Garland Ave - Spokane Religious Studies, 5115 S. Freya, 11:30 a.m. Feb 18 • “Higher Power: The History of Evangelicals in • Annual Viva Vino & Brew Scholarship Fundraiser, America,” Washington State University professor Stop by for a minute to say hi or stay Shriner’s Event Center, 7217 W. Westbow Blvd., 6 Matthew Sutton traces the religious right in for the whole time. Hope to see you there. p.m., hbpaspokane.net America, Indian Trail Library, 4909 W. Barnes, Thank you Spokane. • Spokane Jewish Cultural Film Festival, “The 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Light of Hope,” Wolff Auditorium in Jepson, Feb 18 • “The History of the Civil Rights Movement in Gonzaga University, 7 p.m., sajfs.org/our- America,” Devon Wilson, criminal justice chair of programs/sjcff the Spokane NAACP, South Hill Library, 3324 S. Feb 2 • Spokane Jewish Cultural Film Festival, Perry, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., “The Unorthodox,” Wolff Auditorium in Jepson, Feb 18 • “Hiplet Ballerinas,” Myrtle Woldson Performing Gonzaga University, 2 p.m., sajfs.org/our- Arts Center, Gonzaga, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. programs/sjcff Feb 20 • “Behind the Hashtag: An evening with Patrisse Feb 3-7 • “Exploring the Mystery of the Creative Cullors, co-founder of Black Lives Matter, Myrtle Experience,” a cohort program Spirit Center, Woldson Performing Arts Center, Gonzaga, 7 to Monastery of St. Gertrude, Cottonwood, ID, 208- 8:30 p.m., tickets 965-2000, spirit-center.org Feb 21 • American Exceptionalism of Climate Change Feb 4 • Tommy Orange, Pulitzer-nominated novel There, Denial, Vinai Norasakkunkit, Hemmingson Center There on plight of urban Native Americans, Room 312, Gonzaga, noon to 1 p.m. Gonzaga Visiting Writers Series, Hemmingson • Go Red for Women Luncheon, Spokane Ballroom at Gonzaga, 7:30 p.m., 313-6671, Convention Center, 10:30 a.m., ahaspokane. [email protected] ejoinme.org Feb 5 • Day of Reflection on Mary, “Miriam of Nazareth: • Native Project Healthy Heart Pow Wow Homemaker, Disciple, Apostle,” Fr. Mike and Dinner, blood pressure and blood sugar Savelesky, Immaculate Heart Retreat Center, screening, Rogers High School, 1622 E. 6910 S. Ben Burr Rd., 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., ihrc.net Wellesley, 5 p.m., nativeproject.org • Ben Popp, filmmaker and educator on Feb 23-Mar 1 • BachFest, Beethoven’s 250th Birthday, 800- filmmaking in the Pacific Northwest, Jundt Art 838-3006, nwbachfest.com Museum Auditorium, Gonzaga, 7 to 9 p.m., Feb 24 • Introduction to Judaism, Elizabeth Goldstein, Feb 6 • “Living Faithfully: A Practical Look at Faith, associate professor at Gonzaga, South Hill Hope and Love,” First Presbyterian, 318 S. Cedar, Library, 3324 S. Perry, 6:30 p.m. 6:30 to 8 p.m., 747-1058 Feb 25 • “Letter to Masanjia,” documentary, South Hill Winter Waters 2020 • “Through a Lens Darkly” film on African Library, 3324 S. Perry, 1 to 3 p.m. Friday, March 6 6-9 p.m. American communities using cameras as a tool • Jazz Mass, Dan Keberle Jazz Orchestra and St. for social change, Spokane Downtown Library, Mark’s Choir; Rabbi Tamar Malino of Temple Beth Patsy Clark Mansion - 2208 W. Second Ave. - Spokane 906 W. Main St., 6 to 7:30 p.m. Shalom preaching, St. Mark’s Lutheran, 24th and • “Breaking Barriers: Understanding and Grand, 7 p.m. Responding to Diversity in Student Potential, • “Finding York of the Lewis and Clark Expedition,” ‘Honoring River Flow Champions’ presenters include Del Siegle, Susan Baum and Bob Bartlett of EWU, South Hill Library, 3324 S. Robin Schader, Whitworth University, 9 to 4 p.m., Perry, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. American Whitewater 777-4703 • Envisioning a Just Response to the Catholic Flow Adventures • Nigeria and its Culture, Sanya Ala presenter, Clergy Abuse Crisis, Flannery Lecture of Catholic Row Adventures Northtown Mall near Kohl’s, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Theology with Jennifer Beste, Hemming Center spokanelibrary.org Ballroom, Gonzaga 5:30 to 7 p.m., 313-6782 Silver Bow Fly Shop Feb 6, 13, 20 • “Diverse Voices Writing Group,” Spark Feb 26 • Fig Tree mailing and distribution, St. Mark’s Wine • Desserts • Music • River Advocacy Central, 1214 W. Summit, 5:30 p.m., 279-0299, Lutheran, 24th and Grand, 9:15 a.m., 535-1813 sparkcentral.org • “I Am Not Your Negro,” film, Spokane Downtown Benefits Sierra Club’s Upper Columbia River Group Feb 6, 20 • Peace and Justice Action Committee, 35 W. Library, 906 W. Main, 6 to 7:33 p.m. and the Center for Environmental Law & Policy Main, 5:30 to 7 p.m. • Ash Wednesday, Silent Day of Prayer, “The Tickets $40 per person - $70 for two Feb 7 • Meals on Wheels of Spokane Cinn-A-Gram, Lenten 40 Days and 40 Nights: Preparing to order online deadline, mowspokane.org Celebrate the Passover of the Lord,” Msgr. John RSVP with Tom Soeldner • Fig Tree Benefit/Board Meetings, Emmanuel Steiner, Immaculate Heart Retreat Center, 6910 [email protected] or call (509) 270-6995 Family Life Center, 631 S. Richard Allen Ct., noon S. Ben Burr Rd., ihrc.net for benefit / development, and 1 to 3 p.m., board, Feb 27 • Showing Up for Racial Justice, 35 W. Main, 5:30 535-1813 to 7 p.m. Feb 7-8 • Celebrating the Miracle of Freedom,” Shabbat • The Fig Tree Benefit / Board, Emmanuel Family of Study, Song, Prayer and Community with Life Center, 631 S. Richard Allen Ct., noon for Cantor Dorothy Goldberg on Friday, Providence benefit/development, 1 to 3 p.m., board, 535-1813 chaplain in Portland and disaster spiritual care for Feb 27-28 • WSU College of Education, 169th International the Red Cross, Temple Beth Shalom, 747-3304, Globalization, Diversity and Education spokanetbs.org Conference, “ReImagining Education for Feb 8 • “Being Muslim in Spokane,” learn their story, Liberation,” Northern Quest Casino and Resort, their faith and struggles with racism, East Side 100 N. Hayford Rd., Airway Heights, education. Library, 524 E. Stone, 11 a.m. to noon wsu.edu/globalization/ • “Culture of the Maasai, with Nicholas Sironka, Feb 28 • “The 19th: For Her For All” Concert featuring South Hill Library, 3326 S. Perry, 11 a.m. choral activist Melissa Dunphy, Myrtle Woldson • Native American Spirituality, Donell Barlow, Performing Arts Center, Gonzaga, 7:30 to 9 p.m. presenter, South Hill Library, 3 to 4 p.m. • Gospel Explosion, “O Give Thanks Unto the • “Malawi and the Warm Heart of Africa,” Lord, for He Is Good,” Beeksma Family Theology Christina Kamkosi on her culture and being black Center Chapel, Whitworth, 777-4568, sbeans@ in America, Northtown Mall near Kohls, 3:30 p.m. whitworth.edu • The Lonely - Celebrating The Music of Roy Feb 29 • St. Lucy’s Breakfast, Shalom Ministries Benefit, Orbison, Bing Crosby Theater, 901 W Sprague Rockwood Event Center, 2093 E. 25th, 9 a.m., Ave., 7:30 p.m., thelonely.ca 710-0204, [email protected] Feb 9 • Choral Evensong, St. John’s Cathedral with Solis Feb 29, Mar 3 • Appalachian Spring, Spokane Symphony, Cantoris, featuring music of Tallis and Palestrina, Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox, 29th at 8 p.m., 127 E. 12th Ave., 5 to 6 p.m. service of Scripture, 1st at 3 p.m., spokanesymphony.org prayers and music, Mar 6 • Fig Tree Benefit Lunch, Cataldo Hall at Gonzaga Feb 11 • The Black Lens 5th Anniversary, The Gathering University, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 535-1813 House, 733 W. Garland, 6 to 8 p.m. • March for Meals, Meals on Wheels Greater • Truthful Tuesday Vigil on Rosa Parks’ Birthday, Spokane County, Spokane Valley Mall and Veradale United Church of Christ, 611 N. Progress Northtown Mall, 924-6976, gscmealsonwheels. Rd., 5 to 7 p.m., 926-7173 org/events Feb 12 • “Black Panther” film, Spokane Downtown • “Winter Waters,” Patsy Clark Mansion, 2208 W. Library, 906 W. Main, 5:35 to 7:49 p.m. 2nd, 6 to 9 p.m., 270-6995, [email protected] • Hispanic Business/Professional Assn. Monthly Mar 9 • The Fig Tree Benefit Breakfast, Cataldo Hall at Luncheon, Mexicana Fiesta, 1227 S. Grand, 6 to Gonzaga University, 7 to 8:30 a.m., 535-1813 Page 12 - The Fig Tree - February 2020 Institute’s educational exhibits elicit conversations on human rights By Kaye Hult upbringing in the diverse popula- “It filled me spiritually and men- If the walls of the Human tion of the San Fernando Valley. It tally to work for an organization Rights Education Institute (HREI) had year-round schools with many that cared about and community.” in Coeur d’Alene could talk, ex- extracurricular cultural programs. Needing time to herself, she left ecutive director Jeanette Laster Her friends came from many dif- Kroc and signed up for Leader- believes they would have much ferent cultural backgrounds. ship CdA, which helped her learn to share about the joy, pain, chal- California State University at about the community and build lenge, tears, emotions, grief and— Northridge, where she studied on connections. During that process, most of all—hope they have seen a swimming and diving scholar- she realized there was a lack of through conversations elicited by ship, was a melting pot. understanding in the community exhibits they have held. “I never thought about differ- about ethnic and socioeconomic Educational exhibits invite ences. The people were my sisters, diversity, and around LGBTQ is- people to engage in tough con- brothers and friends,” she said. sues, bullying and homelessness. versations about justice, equality, In college, she worked in the She began working as commu- human rights, race and more,” she Camarillo Parks and Recreation nity impact coordinator for United said. “Out of conversations come Department, running programs Way in Coeur d’Alene, her first hope, strength and belief that all at different elementary schools. exposure to community organiz- people belong. Conversations After college, she returned to that ing with nonprofits. For two years, encourage humility, kindness and Jeanette Laster beside a wall painting of Martin Luther King Jr. program to teach aquatics and she volunteered at HREI to help acceptance. HREI is a place for manage a park with an aquatic with events and review grants safe conversations.” port HREI’s mission. Evidence” on Thursday, April 23. center, a Boys and Girls Club before becoming administrative Jeanette, who became execu- “We provide a variety of experi- The fourth goal is funding sus- and a baseball park. She values program manager. tive director in December 2018, ences,” she said, “and they help us tainability. The biggest challenge mentoring teens to college age, “I consider myself a connec- continues what she had been do- maximize our K-12 programs.” is to maintain operations, pay sala- because they say what they think tor and mentor,” she said. “I ing for four years as administra- The K-12 program focuses on ries and cover the building costs. and accept responsibility.” champion diversity. I want to lift tive program manager. the Universal Declaration of Hu- Despite the overhead of rent- When the housing market fell, people to better places. “I’ve spent much time team- man Rights, adopted in 1948 by ing from the city, the building is her husband, who was a builder, “At HREI, I take steps to assure building and building capacity for the United Nations in response to relevant to HREI’s work. lost his job, then found work in its success and longevity, while our longevity,” she said. the experience of World War II. In 2002, the Greg C. Carr Coeur d’Alene. After moving from we serve our community with the HREI’s vision comes from the HREI partners with the di- Foundation awarded HREI a California, she became aquatics resources we have,” Jeanette said. board of directors in collabora- versity program at North Idaho $1,000,000 grant as seed money director at the Kroc Center. For information, call 208-292- tion with staff, said Jeanette, who College (NIC) and with the Idaho to establish a human rights cen- “It was a God thing,” she said. 2359 or email [email protected]. focuses on raising funds to keep Commission on Human Rights. ter. This allowed HREI to move the doors open. They offer cultural education in 2005 into its present space, a HREI’s doors first opened in around such themes as Asian former railroad substation. The 1998. It began as an outgrowth of American and Pacific Islander grant was not endowed, so that the Kootenai County Task Force Month in May, Hispanic Heritage money is now gone. on Human Relations’ work to Month and Native American “People and foundations love counter white supremacist activi- Month in the fall. HREI also of- to give money to programs, not ties in the area. fers a multicultural summer camp. sustainability,” she said. While the task force primarily Elementary students attend the HREI has previously had no focuses on advocacy, HREI was “Around the World” camp. Mid- long-term vision for an endow- formed to educate. They work dle schoolers focus on advocacy. ment, making meeting the $115,000 closely, sharing information and On Tuesday, April 14, the annu- budget each year a challenge. many members. al North Idaho College Diversity “The time is right for an endow- “It’s vital to HREI for all hu- Symposium for NIC students has ment campaign,” she said. “We man rights groups have a unified a cultural identity theme. HREI hope to raise $20,000. We can voice,” she said. partners with NIC to support a do much more if we can continue She enumerated goals that variety of opportunities that day. operations. Then we can concen- have guided the institute’s work. “Each year, we also bring stu- trate programs.” First, HREI wants to maintain dents, volunteers and others to Jeanette’s passion for working its presence in the community to the Hate Studies Conference at on human rights stems from her build awareness of human rights Gonzaga University,” she added. for all and the value of diversity. HREI’s third goal is to facili- Many visitors feel its presence tate challenging conversations in shows that this is a diverse com- the community. munity, she said. When CdA2030 and Envision The second goal is education. CdA joined and held panel dis- HREI offers programs for K-12 cussions on the city’s future, they students and supports opportuni- asked Jeanette for suggestions to ties for college students through include people not generally seen internships and work study. as part of the conversation. “Each day, we usually have 12 HREI will partner with Safe people in the building,” she said. Passage and North Idaho Now to Students can gain experience in bring awareness to the rape kit accounting, marketing, program backlog, providing a safe space development, event planning and for this community conversation. administrative work as they sup- HREI will host the video “I Am

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