36th Year of Publication Stories inside Professor committed to media responsibility - p. 5 Spokane’s oldest church marks 140 years - p. 7 ALTCEW evaluates resources for elders - p. 9 May 2019 Hadda Estrada draws [email protected] Micah 4:4 international students - p. 12 Volume 36 Number 5 (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 Center offers multiple resources By Mary Stamp people in stepping out of crises Instead of needing multiple and to prevent them from falling bus passes to go to several agen- into struggles with unemployment, cies for employment, health care, hunger, mental health, addiction, food, housing and other services, homelessness or crime. people can now go to one place to “The Spokane Resource Center meet with representatives of those provides diversion before people agencies. enter the criminal justice system The Spokane Resource Center, or are homeless,” Tim said. “They a one-stop location for people need intervention before they are in to access multiple services in a a crisis, need to go to the emergen- single visit, opened April 15 in the cy room for issues that are not best 20,000-square-foot second floor of resolved in an ER, or are arrested. WorkSource at 130 S. Arthur. Many people face a vast number of The center is open from 9 a.m. barriers to reaching their personal to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. and professional potential. It is one of 17 HUD EnVision “Looking at dynamics in the Center Demonstration sites in criminal justice system, the Spokane the nation. The four emphases of Regional Criminal Justice Com- EnVision Centers are economic mission created a ‘Blueprint for empowerment, character and lead- Reform’ to look at deficiencies and ership, educational advancement identify people involved with the and health/wellness. criminal justice system,” he said. Tim Sigler, senior manager of “The report recommends offering the city’s Community Housing and better access to social services by Human Services (CHHS) Depart- co-locating agencies. The Spokane ment, said the idea has been around Resource Center does just that.” for many years with several sys- A pilot project was proposed two tems that include criminal justice, years ago, but there was no money homeless services and other social or space, said Tim, who has been services agencies that work with with the city for five years. underserved populations. Previously he was a county pro- The center brings together local bation officer for four years, a city social services in a shared office probation officer for four years, to enable collaboration to assist Tim Sigler stands beside some of the art on the walls of the Spokane Resource Center. Continued on page 4

NAACP Spokane celebrates 100 years Poor People’s Campaign recruits Leaders of the state Poor People’s Campaign (PPC) visited of challenging injustice, inequity, bias Spokane recently for a Truth and Poverty Tour to learn about Through its 100 years of fight- The Spokane’s Mayor and City tice, education, political action, local social justice issues and help develop a local chapter. ing for racial equity and justice in Council proclaimed April as the health care and climate change. Jonathan Hemphill of Tacoma and Bianca Davis-Lovelace of economic opportunities, fair hous- NAACP Spokane Centennial The national NAACP approved Seattle are two tri-chairs on the Washington State Coordinating ing, criminal justice, educational Month. A centennial celebration at Spokane’s charter on April 14, Committee for the PPC. In January, Liz Moore, director of the challenges and environmental their monthly membership meet- 1919. The charter says the goal is Peace and Justice Action League of Spokane, had stepped down justice, the Spokane NAACP has ing on Monday, April 15, filled “to uplift colored men and women as the third tri-chair. a legacy of leaders whose persis- Calvary Baptist Church, where of this country by securing to Jonathan is legislative and administrative advocate for Mock- tence inspires members today to the chapter first met. them the full enjoyment of their ingbird Society to transform foster care related to homeless carry on despite challenges that The centennial celebration rights as citizens, justice in all teens. Bianca is executive director of the Renton Ecumenical remain in the systems of power. will culminate with hosting the courts and equality of opportunity Association of Churches REACH and a member of Bethany The centennial launched in NAACP State Area Conference everywhere.” UCC. Devon Wilson of the NAACP Spokane helped schedule January with a program on the from Sept. 13 to 15 at Northern Its founders and early leaders their tour in Spokane. They seek to build a chapter of the Poor Bail Project, presented with a Quest Resort and Casino in Air- included the Rev. Emmett Reed, People’s Campaign in Spokane to do direct action. town hall with community part- way Heights. There will be speak- who was pastor of Calvary Baptist “Through chapters in 40 states, we seek to highlight poverty ners, including Gonzaga’s Black ers, a lunch, banquet, the Michael Church from 1919 until his death across the nation to change the narrative that limits the face of Student Union and its Institute for P. Anderson scholarship awards in 1961; the Rev. T.F. Jones, pastor poverty to the homeless man on the street,” said Jonathan. “We Hate Studies. and workshops on criminal jus- of Bethel African Methodist Epis- want people to see children and families, too.” copal (AME) Church who was the On April 6 at the WSU campus in Spokane they introduced the first (temporary) president, and Poor People’s Campaign through a panel on student-led move- Frank Stokes, a businessman and ments in sync with values of the PPC. Social justice, racial jus- member of Bethel AME, who for tice, religious leaders and environmental activists are involved. 30 years was president or other They are also recruiting people to go to a national Poor executive officer. People’s Moral Action Congress June 17 to 19 in Washington, At the April 15 meeting, Gloria D.C. The goal is to have 20 representatives from each state, Ochoa-Brook presented the city’s including people impacted by poverty, clergy and advocates to proclamation. Then Kiantha Dun- decide where to go as a campaign, said Jonathan.

can, the newest board member and “Racism, poverty, ecological devastation and militarism are

Permit No. 1044 No. Permit former chair of the Seattle Tacoma interconnected,” Bianca said. “The main issue is that many who

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1323 S. Perry St. Perry S. 1323 women, millennials, faith leaders, U.S. POSTAGE U.S. For information, call 708-937-5711 or email bdavislovelace@

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The Fig Tree Fig The educators and children present for gmail.com. Non-Profit Continued on page 6 Page 2 - The Fig Tree - May 2019 Religion News Briefs Regional Ecumenical & Interfaith News Around the World Resource Directory will publish in July World Council of Churches News, PO Box 2100 May and June are the final resources to help them move from said Malcolm Haworth, directory CH - 1211 Geneva 2, Switzerland Tel: +41-22 791 6111 months for gathering updated crises, it is being used by people editor. Fax: +41-22 788 7244 www.oikoumene.org information for listings, recruiting who need assistance. They find It’s still possible to send in advertising support and inviting it a valuable guide to help them updates for organizational list- WCC expresses solidarity with Sri Lankans businesses/agencies to be com- move from homelessness, hunger, ings. It’s still possible to join the On this Easter Sunday, the World Council of Churches (WCC) munity partners for the 2019-20 unemployment, health struggles advertisers who make the publica- expressed its solidarity with the churches and people of Sri Lanka Resource Directory. and the criminal justice system to tion possible. It’s still possible after news of bombings of churches and hotels, which have The directory is published in transition into housing, employ- to become a community partner claimed about 250 lives and injured 500 more. July, mailed in July and distribut- ment and healthy lives. who helps underwrite the costs WCC general secretary Olav Fykse Tveit condemned the attacks ed in July, August and September As their lives improve, the of increasing distribution to reach on people gathered at worship and on tourists visiting Sri Lanka. to those who request bulk orders. Resource Directory also guides more people, he said. He offered condolences to all those who have lost loved ones in Circulation has risen from them to participate in recreation, For information, call 535-4112, these appalling acts of violence. 12,000 in 2016 to 16,000 in 2018 cultural, civic and faith groups to email resource directory@thefig- “Targeting churches attacks the religious peace and harmony, because, in addition to being used enrich their lives, and to organiza- tree.org, or visit www.thefigtree. and the social and cultural fabric of the nation, which has long by service providers and faith tions where they can volunteer, org and click on directory to ac- struggled to uphold principles of religious harmony and diversity. leaders to connect people with give back and advocate for others, cess the online version. “Such acts of violence undermine the sanctity of life and con- stitute a sacrilege in many senses. Even as we cry out against this sacrilege, we resolutely affirm that violence must not beget vio- lence. In the spirit of the love of Christ, we hold fast to the belief Caritas hosts Health and Resource Fair that violence, hatred and death will not have the last word,” he said. Caritas Outreach Ministries, At the fair, “A Key to Solu- of these people just know too little As is fitting to the memories of those who lost their lives in a food bank, energy and utilities tions,” they will help people ad- about how their other needs could sacred spaces, Olav called for people to live out the difficult task assistance program and necessities dress domestic matters, nutrition, be addressed,” he said. of demonstrating that the power of peace and love are far greater bank at 1612 W. Dalke in North health care, veterans’ services and Caritas serves the community than the power of violence. Spokane, will hold a Health and elder services. north of Montgomery, west of Resource Fair to celebrate its 27th “Caritas has a long history of Division, south of Hawthorne and WCC reflects on fire damage at Notre Dame anniversary and to offer people so- helping folks put food on their ta- in the Nine Mile Falls zip code. After a fire on April 15 damaged Notre Dame cathedral, the lutions on various issues from 10 bles,” said volunteer Chuck Hooker. It is a collaborative effort of WCC general secretary expressed shock over the damage to one of a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday, May 13. “We’re convinced many of our 14 Northwest Spokane churches, the most famous landmarks in Paris and the seat of the archbishop More than 20 federal, state and clients need services beyond food sharing resources and information. of Paris. He recognizes the incalculable loss of Notre Dame as local agencies will set up tables in and necessities, ones readily avail- For information, call 326-2249 a spiritual home for many and for its significant role in art and the parking lot of Spokane Friends able through various agencies or visit caritasoutreachministries. history. On Dec. 4, 2015, he had participated in an ecumenical Church, which houses Caritas. with Spokane offices, but many org. service at Notre Dame cathedral with hundreds of people from many nations and confessions for God’s Creation during the United Nations climate conference held then in the city. Salem Lutheran raises funds for its roof “As we prayed for our common home, the beautiful setting of the cathedral drew us even closer together,” Olav said. “As Salem Lutheran Church opened This year, Salem has been diverse congregation is busy every decisions are made about repairing the structure, we pray for its doors this winter as a warming challenged to do some expensive week, used by the community for the firefighters who preserved what they could, for craftspeople center, putting a roof over the maintenance to put a new roof on nonprofit offices, AA, Taiko drum- who will do the repairs, and for millions of people for whom the heads of 60 to 80 homeless people the building, said Carolyn Payne, ming, New Horizons Orchestra, cathedral holds so much meaning.” a night. the music director. Zumba, music workshops and Pope Francis also expressed solidarity and said he was praying Needing to do something about Kevin and Caleb Brown will carpentry classes for inmates from for the Catholics of France, as well as for all the people of Paris. that roof, Salem is holding a ben- provide live music. There will be Geiger Correctional Facility, she The Notre Dame Cathedral is considered by many as the most efit, “Our Roof as Mission” from an auction—including a Guate- said. Salem also shares meals with religiously and architecturally significant cathedral on earth, draw- 5 to 8 p.m., Saturday, June 8. malan breakfast for eight, a walk- neighbors, collects school supplies ing 13 million visitors a year, even more than the Eiffel Tower. For 131 years, the church has ing tour of Spokane, handmade and sponsors a Hoopfest team with been doing mission and ministry quilts, gift baskets and more. The the neighbor kids. at the corner of Broadway and $30 ticket includes a commemora- For information, call 328-6280 WCC gathers people to prioritize racial justice Walnut. Its prayer is to continue tive glass filled at the no-host bar. or email salemcongregation@ “Think about your policies, practices and actions, not to just for many more years. The campus of the welcoming, gmail.com. look back at the past, but to ask what can we do today,” said Judith Roberts, director for Racial Justice Ministries for the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America. She joined religious leaders from across the globe for a recent training on “Achieving Racial Justice Mandy Manning speaks for PJALS benefit Through UN Human Rights Mechanisms,” organized by the WCC “Rise Up Strong: A Culture School’s Newcomer Center. to conduct a teach-in at the Mexico Commission of the Churches on International Affairs. It was a of Love and Belonging” is the Her career includes teaching in border to raise awareness and call follow-up to the 2016 WCC Racial Justice Solidarity visit to the theme for the Peace and Justice the Peace Corps in Armenia, in for action to protect children. USA. That gathering committed to make racial justice a priority. Action League of Spokane’s 2019 schools in Japan and in schools For information, call 838-8780 The training was parallel to the 24th session of the United Luncheon Benefit, featuring Man- across the U.S. In 2008, she or visit pjals.org. Nations Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent. dy Manning, state and national moved to Spokane to work at Judith said the training offered her the opportunity to hear stories teacher of the year for 2018. It Lewis and Clark High School, of what’s happening globally on racism and gender-based violence will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 and transferred to Ferris in 2011. Spokane and other forms of oppression, and realize “we are all connected p.m., Wednesday, May 8, at the She has used the opportunity as to something bigger,” she said. Spokane Valley Event Center, national teacher of the year to pro- Symphony Demaine Solomons, who teaches theology and ethics at the 10514 E. Sprague. mote justice for all children, par- University of the Western Cape in South Africa, valued the time Mandy is an English language ticularly immigrants and refugees. Chorale talking about how human rights relate to theology and the church. learning educator for refugee and When she received the award May in Concert Sunila Ammar, executive for Ecumenical Formation, Gender immigrant students at Ferris High 2, 2018, from President Donald ‘Love and Justice and Youth Empowerment for the Christian Conference of Trump, she presented him a letter Asia, found tools and facets of conversation to take back home to signed by 33 of her students saying Understanding’ Pakistan to connect with the civil city and the church. The Fig Tree is published 10 months they are committed to be produc- each year, September through June. Sunday, May 19 tive members of the community. 4 p.m. at Deadlines: Her year has included traveling COPY - 3rd Fridays ADS - 4th Tuesdays Westminster UCC It is published by The Fig Tree, around the country, including be- 411 S. Washington ing at an October event near Tor- 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA 99202, a $15/person • $5 ages 5-17 The Fig Tree is non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. nillo, Texas, where thousands of reader supported Editorial Team detained children were in a camp TICKETS AT DOOR Editor/Publisher/Photos - Mary Stamp in the desert. In February, she or- or from any Chorale member Directory Editor - Malcolm Haworth cantabile-ssa.corlinc.com/store BECOME A SPONSOR! Website Developer - Lorna Kropp ganized teachers around the U.S. Volunteer Coordinator - Kaye Hult NAME ______Editing - Carol Bellinger, Catherine Ferguson SNJM, Kaye Hult, ADDRESS ______Inga Jablonsky, Mary Mackay, CITY/STATE/ZIP ______Dru Powers, Sara Weaver PHONE ______Fig Tree Board WorldHonoring Refugee Refugee Women Day Barb Borgens, Tom Fallquist, ❑ $20-50 Sponsor ❑ $56-125 Friend Mary Ann Farley SNJM, Saturday, June 15 Malcolm Haworth, Kaye Hult, ❑ $300-$1,000 Underwriter Kimmy Meineke, Kathy Sandusky, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nevada Park - 800 E. Joseph ❑ $42 for bulk order of 10 Wade Schwartz, Mary Stamp, Naturalization Ceremony • Children’s Activities Lauri Clark-Strait, Live Entertainment • Cultural Marketplace ❑ $300/year pledge for five years John Wang, James Watkins, Anastasia Wendlinder International Food • Resource Fair SEND YOUR DONATION TO Copyright © 2019 Refugee Connections Spokane The Fig Tree, 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA 99202 (509) 535-1813 or 535-4112 Email: [email protected] 209-2384 • [email protected] May 2019 - The Fig Tree - Page 3

Jewish Family Services hold benefit lunch Artist-in-residence program at monastery lends The Spokane Area Jewish Family Services (SAJFS) will hold a young woman opportunity to compose music benefit luncheon from noon to 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 15, at Gonzaga’s Hemmingson Center, 702 E. Desmet. Seattle educator By Theresa Henson Beth Huppin will speak on “A Welcoming Table,” about the power Spokane composer Xanthe of Spokane tables as places for connections and for supporting a Kraft spent most of March in the healthy and vibrant community. Monastery of St. Gertrude’s artist- Jewish Family Services will present Shirley Grossman with the in-residence program. SAJFS Outstanding Service Award for her longtime service to the Inspired by the monastic day Jewish community, especially seniors. arranged around morning and Beth, who grew up in Spokane’s Jewish community, teaches evening prayer, and midday Mass children and adults in formal and informal Jewish educational set- or prayer, Xanthe created a sched- tings. She now works at JFS in Seattle and as director of Project ule that included time to write in Kavod, a Jewish educational program that focuses on values that the morning and time to compose inspire and guide the work of JFS. music in the afternoon. She teaches at Congregation Beth Shalom in Seattle, and re- “An artistic journey is also a ceived a 2010 Covenant Award for excellence in Jewish education. spiritual journey and moral jour- For information, call 747-7394 or email [email protected]. ney,” she said. “The Holy Spirit that inspires goodness and truth also inspires beauty.” Young organists give recital, play in MusicFest As part of her time at St. Ger- The Spokane Chapter of the American Guild of Organists trude’s, Xanthe composed a Mass (AGO) recital by its 2019 Organ Academy students will be held at used for the liturgy of the Feast of 3 p.m., Sunday, May 5, at Central Lutheran Church, 512 S. Bernard the Annunciation on March 25. St. The AGO said the 2019 Musicfest Northwest Organ adjudica- Her goal was to create music to tor Andrew Lloyd will perform a concert at 4 p.m., Sunday, May complement the congregation’s Xanthe Kraft, a composer, recently completed an artist’s 12, at the Cathedral of St. John, 127 E. 12th Ave. The organ voice. residency at the Monastery of St. Gertrude. Photo courtesy of Theresa Hensen adjudication will be at 10 a.m., Tuesday, May 14, at the cathedral. “What’s going on in Mass is in- Last year, the Organ Academy began to introduce young pianists credible. Music should not detract “The result is always better discover that he has always been to the organ with a short course of organ lessons at a reduced cost. from that,” said Xanthe, who cites when you do it for God rather than there.” The goal was for students to learn about the organ and to master influences in Celtic melody and people,” she said. “As with many For information, call 208-962- a piece to enter in Musicfest Northwest, said AGO member Janet Gregorian chant. of our journeys of finding Jesus, 5065, email creative@stgertrudes. Ahrend, who helped organize the Organ Academy. “I tried to make a simple song,” we don’t discover him there, we org or visit stgertgrudes.org. Of eight students, three continued with private lessons and she explained, also referring to two took the course again this year. The third is a university stu- Hildegard of Bingen’s composi- dent. This year the academy has 11 students, with six from Post tions and aesthetic philosophy. • Advocacy • Partnership 4 Safety Falls and Coeur d’Alene. “God, who at once is the simplest • Family Support • Supported Employment The students practiced Saturdays at different churches, so and most all-encompassing, de- • Individual Advocacy • Financial Management they experienced different organs. With half from North Idaho, lights in a simple song.” • Community Center • Community Access there were simultaneous practice sessions in Spokane and Coeur Xanthe, who is 24 years old, • Home Ownership • Supported Living d’Alene, saving parents travel time and distance, she said. recently graduated with a mas- Promotes independence and choice. Highlights of their 2019 recital include three of Bach’s “Eight ter’s in music composition from Little Preludes and Fugues,” three contemporary pieces and Leon Enhances the quality of life for people Dartmouth College. with developmental disabilities and their families. Boellmann’s “Prayer to Our Lady” and his “Toccata,” from his She describes her spiritual Suite Gothique. The Arc believes having a disability should not prevent journey as questioning herself as someone from enjoying a rich, meaningful life. Andrew, a Spokane native, chairs the organ program and a creative being, finding God’s teaches composition as assistant professor at the University of imprint—and through grace hav- Call 328-6326 • www.arc-spokane.org Texas in San Antonio. He earned a doctor of musical arts degree ing revelations about God through in organ performance in 2014 from the University of North Texas, contemplation that inspires works and completed his other degrees at the University of Kansas and of beauty—or, as Xanthe says, “to Brigham Young University. He has performed on the organs at react to beauty with meaning. the Salt Lake Tabernacle, the Cathédrale de Notre Dame in Paris, “I have wanted to write this Mission...PossibleMission...Possible the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., and in Russia and Mass for a while, and I wouldn’t Help us care for our building, South Africa. have without this artist’s resi- so we can continue to care He has composed for organ, piano, voice, choir, orchestra and dency,” she said. for our customers chamber ensembles, including a recent composition, “Christus,” Initially the residency was chal- Our goal is to raise $25,000 so we can update a nine-movement art mass for choir, organ, violin and cello that lenging as she was confronted the inside of our building. We are looking for premiered in April 2017 in Fort Worth and Dallas. His works have with a lack of her usual distrac- been featured at the 2016 and 2018 National AGO Conventions,. tions. monetary donors as well as volunteers to help Andrew’s program here will include music by Bach, de “I tried to go through this with some of the projects. Grigny, Tournemire, Widor and several of his own compositions, residency as a spiritual journey,” Mission Community Outreach Center 509-536-1084 including the world premiere of “and on the third day,” as well as she said. www.4mission.org |1906 E. Mission, Spokane, WA 99202 the 10-year anniversary performance of “The Three Gardens.” He Xanthe has composed music first performed at St. John’s in 1997 and 1998. since she was five years old. She For information, call 624-2980, email [email protected], was raised Catholic and describes or visit spokaneago.org. coming into her faith while at col- BUILD • INVESTIGATE • CREATE lege at Dartmouth. Symphony Chorale performs on May 14 She found the party culture bleak and she found a crisis of The Cantabile Chapter of the Spokane Symphony Associates Computer Programming, purpose among her peers. presents a concert with the 80+ voice Spokane Symphony Chorale Robotics, Cosplay, Manga & Anime, at 4 p.m., Sunday, May 14, at Westminster Congregational United Through participation in cam- pus ministry and a music ensem- Video Construction, Church of Christ. Directed by Kristina Ploeger, the program, Engineering, and Biomedical “Love and Understanding,” will demonstrate the range and ver- ble, she developed a prayer life satility of this all-volunteer chorus, performing music by Michael that also inspired her music. Her John Trotta, Stephen Foster, Ysaye Barnwell, Gustav Holst, James compositions became a response Syler, Maurice Durufle and more. of gratitude and celebration to 2019 Summer Kristina is a professor and director of choral activities at Eastern God rather than an endeavor of Washington University. The pianist is Carolyn Jess. Proceeds isolated artistic achievement. support the Spokane Symphony. STEM & For information, call 991-0921 or email brentwilcox@yahoo. com, or visit cantabile-ssa.corlinc.com/store. Organic Methods Arts Camps No Herbicides  No Pesticides Monday – Thursday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Urban Eden July 8-11  July 15-18  July 22-25  July 29 – Aug. 1 Locations: Sunshine for... Farm Stand Chase Middle School – 4747 E 37th Ave. In Vinegar Flats! Salk Middle School – 6411 N Alberta St. • Skilled nursing & rehab Saturdays K-8th grade  $100 per camp • Home health care • Memory care 9 to Noon • Behavioral health Grown & Sold In Season Make your • Adult family homes 2201 S. Inland Empire Way Spokane summer count! About 20 blocks south of Browne’s register online @ (509) 926-3547 | shfi.com Addition Neighborhood UrbanEdenFarm.com www.spokaneschools.org/summerstemcamps or Facebook If you have any questions call 509-354-4648 Page 4 - The Fig Tree - May 2019 People in need can avoid struggles with accessing services at new center Continued from page 1 under DSHS through the Depart- introduce the artists. then city probation supervisor. ment of Agriculture in Spokane, There is also a Multicultural In 2007 and 2011, Tim earned King and Pierce counties. Center to focus on race, gender, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in In 2001, she earned a bachelor’s ethnicity and interfaith issues. social work at Eastern Washington in sociology and social services One of two classrooms is for the University. He volunteered with from Central Washington Universi- center’s use and one for communi- Spokane County Veterans’ Court, ty and a 2009 master’s in education ty use to host events, discussions where he was eventually em- from Northern Arizona University. and workshops. WorkSource will ployed. With a team, he developed “I love the collaboration here. teach classes on job readiness. a model for offering community When I was a case manager, I Agencies may teach classes or services in one place, which is dreamed of everyone coming to have events there. nationally recognized and is now Spokane Resource Center offers different areas to meet needs. one place and having multiple In the Financial Stability Center, the Spokane Veterans Forum. programs meet all their needs,” people can learn about budgeting, The city is leasing the space at training, job readiness and social post-conviction matters; reentry she said. “It’s important to bridge credit, home ownership or even WorkSource for two years. It has skill-building. services, and legal advocacy. programs, rather than have them just how to open a bank account. $150,000 in Community Develop- • Under health and wellness, Agencies will sign up to send work in silos. Being together here In an employee break room, ment block grants to operate it, CHAS and other health care agen- representatives at certain times they collaborate to help people. agency staff can converse and have and for equipment and supplies. cies will schedule appointments, and days, on schedules based on “There are so many resources monthly training sessions. For ex- At first, they looked just at help people apply for insurance, of- client needs and appointments. and there is so much knowledge. ample, Kurtis Robinson, NAACP the large open room, but then fer health care assistance, counsel- “Over the year, we will see if If one agency does not have an idea Spokane president, and Carmen decided to lease the full second ing, crisis intervention, behavioral we need all partners here all the or answer, another will,” Jen said. Pacheo-Jones, chair of the SR- floor. The open space is furnished and mental health screenings and time,” Tim said. “We will review “While providers often compete LJC’s Racial Equity Committee, with office equipment donated by refer people for treatment. what services are being used most for funds, at the Spokane Resource will offer implicit bias training. Northwest Farm Credit Services • Peer support includes certi- and what services we lack. Then Center they will learn what each “Our goal is to serve the com- and other local businesses. fied peer counselors, mentoring, we will reach out to other provid- does and be able to make refer- munity by supporting innovative Tim said the main room has sober coaching, advocacy and ers to partner with us.” rals,” said Tim, who expects bar- projects like this,” Tim said. “neighborhoods”—areas for dif- networking. The Spokane Workforce riers will break down. “Providers “CHHS invests nearly $15 million ferent types of agencies. Signs • Education includes parent- Council secured funding to sup- will train each other, learn the for support services and capital hanging from the ceiling say: ing classes, financial and credit port site management and opera- same lingo and be a team.” investments each year.” housing, pre-employment, health counseling, computer skills and tions, and contracted with Career The Spokane Resource Center Among the partners along with and wellness, peer support, educa- tenant education. Path Services to hire Jen Morris to plans to add a clothing closet, a the Spokane Workforce Council tion and workshops, benefits/basic • Benefits/basic needs addresses connect service providers, arrange food closet and hygiene cabinet. and the city are Spokane Hous- needs and justice. reinstating or increasing veterans’ the schedule and plan training. There is also a plan to have a ing Authority, Career Path Ser- • Housing includes housing benefits, support access for and Jen, who has worked as site room for supervised play, which vices, SNAP, The Arc of Spokane, assessments, energy assistance, recovery of SSI/SSDI support. manager with Career Path Services the center hopes will be run by Goodwill, Catholic Charities, rental help, dispute resolution and • Justice includes legal assis- for 10 years, came to Spokane three volunteers so children are occu- Compass Career Solutions, Center tenant education. tance for tenants; clinics on rental, years ago. She has run Resources pied when parents discuss needs for Justice, Frontier Behavioral • Pre-employment includes housing and employment rights; to Initiate Successful Employment and barriers to supporting their Health, CHAS, Pioneer Human success that they might not share Services, Revive Reentry Ser- if their child is sitting next to them. vices, Partners with Families and Eva Lassman awards presented at conference The Spokane Arts Commission Children, World Relief and the Gonzaga University’s Institute student in Gonzaga’s doctoral pro- Since 1994, a key word search has filled the walls with local Tenants Union. for Hate Studies recently con- gram of Leadership Studies. Her indicates the newspaper published artists’ works to add color and For information, call 867-8189. tinued Holocaust survivor and research is on “Stages of Faith, 1,685 articles on racism, 1,190 educator Eva Lassman’s legacy Images of God, and Othering on bias, 540 on bigotry, 207 on through presenting awards in of the LGBTQ Community: An sexism, 49 on xenophobia and 24 her name to individuals and the Exploratory Case Study of United on religious intolerance. Based on Spokesman-Review for their ef- Methodist Leaders.” their subject index article count, forts to promote peace and ensure A second 2019 Take Action they have published 587 articles that the stories of hate are never Against Hate Award was pre- on immigration policy, 519 on gay forgotten. sented to Jordan Tyrus Reidt, who or lesbian experiences, and 132 on In presenting the awards at its grew up in a small town on the transgender experiences. recent conference banquet, Kris- Chinook and Chehalis Nations’ “The Spokesman-Review has tine Hoover said Eva educated lands in what is now Raymond, helped inform us not only of the people about the genocide of 6 Wash. A senior at Western Wash- work we need to continue to do, Rockwood South Hill: million Jews and 5 million people ington University, he works to al- but also affirms our spirits with 2903 E. 25th Ave. of other nationalities, religions leviate hate and white supremacy. articles that celebrate themes of 509-536-6650 and viewpoints under Nazi Ger- The Take Action Against Hate the conference,” she said, with many during World War II. award for an organization went 9,415 articles on peace, 2,411 on Rockwood Hawthorne: “Her inspirational story con- to The Spokesman-Review. Rob dialogue, 1,446 on kindness and 101 E. Hawthorne Rd. tinues in many ways in our com- Curley, editor, and Stacey Cowles, 919 on forgiveness. 509-466-0411 munity, including art work of publisher, received the award. “Eva knew constant vigilance www.rockwoodretirement.org Spokane middle and high school Kristine said The Spokesman- is needed to overcome racism independent • assisted • skilled nursing • memory care students on display at the Gonzaga Review was chosen for its com- and anti-Semitism. We must learn Law School as part of the annual mitment “to shine a light on the from mistakes made before us and Holocaust Remembrance. dark corners of our community do all we can to prevent it from The 2019 Eva Lassman Memo- so that we might find deeper un- happening again,” Kristine said. rial Student Research Award went derstanding of how to address sig- “We recognize the role of the to the Rev. Terri Stewart, a United nificant concerns to create a more Spokesman-Review to show who Your support of Methodist pastor and second year peaceful, inclusive community.” we are and who we aspire to be.” Catholic Charities’ mission means you care about life and dignity.

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For more information please contact Ann Marie Byrd | (509) 358-4266 Director of Development May 2019 - The Fig Tree - Page 5 Professor will continue teaching intercultural awareness, media responsibility John Caputo’s belief in the former strongholds of the sides Center (WCCC), he helped with power of stories of everyday of political divisions. The sym- a series on the influence of TV people, in fostering intercultural bolic nature of the Peace Bridge on families as part of looking and international awareness, and is connecting through dialogue at causes of poverty and social in the need for media responsi- and building empathy for others, problems in that neighborhood. bility has permeated his teach- John said. “We realized people were get- ing undergraduate and graduate Peace has been a theme ting messages from media more students for careers in media and through John’s life. His family than from churches or schools,” communication. moved from Ohio to California, he said. As a professor in Gonzaga where he graduated from high From that, they developed the University’s master’s program in school. He graduated from college Spokane Academy of Family TV, Communication and Leadership in 1964 from California State at which grew into the Northwest Studies and summer programs Long Beach at the height of the Alliance for Responsible Media for communications students in Vietnam period. in partnership with the University Florence and Cagli, Italy, and in Although the youngest of seven of Washington and the Spokane Derry, Northern Ireland, he has in a working class family, he was Regional Health Department. It introduced students to the skills of able to afford college because tu- found a home at Gonzaga Uni- journalism, photography and digi- ition for a semester at Long Beach versity. tal, interpersonal and intercultural State was $49. Its role is to monitor the in- communication. John Caputo retires after nearly 30 years at Gonzaga University. He was deferred from the draft fluence of media on society, to John has helped students un- while teaching high school in educate the community on that derstand peace is possible despite the stories that can be told? Hu- city grew out of those relation- a low-income, racially diverse influence and to influence media ways media may exacerbate divi- man community is about storytell- ships. This year, 10 high school neighborhood. When he began to act responsibly to create a sions, covering political leaders ing—oral to written to image.” students from Spokane go to Cagli graduate studies in communica- healthy society. rather than citizens. Being of Italian heritage and June 30 to July 15 and 10 from tion and culture, he applied as a One member, Bill Niggemeyer, Although retiring as profes- in Spokane’s Italian American Cagli come to Spokane July 20 conscientious objector. Turned a retired junior high teacher ac- sor at Gonzaga in May, he will Club, and from having traveled in to Aug. 5 and stay in homes. He down because he was Catholic, tive in peace education, called continue his 50-year passion Italy in the 1970s, John wanted to is currently seeking volunteers as he became involved in the peace for “taking back the culture.” He for teaching by fostering Cagli- teach in the GU program in Flor- homestay families in Spokane. movement. and Fig Tree editor Mary Stamp Spokane Sister City ties with ence when he started teaching at “It’s citizen diplomacy, wel- “I wanted to teach to influence helped guide the alliance to invite high school summer exchanges, Gonzaga in 1990, coming as chair coming strangers and learning society,” he said. “People need to media to create a culture of peace. promoting media responsibility of the undergraduate communica- about people,” said John. “Class- be informed about diversity, cul- Through forums, films and a and writing articles. tion arts department. rooms are never big enough to ture, poverty and racism. Northern Media Fest for high school stu- From 2012 to 2016, he took In 1998, eight years after John hold students’ dreams.” Ireland had similar questions and dents at KSPS, NW-ARM invited student groups for 17 days to came, the Florence program di- For four years John also led had turned to Martin Luther King, people to understand the impact Derry, Ireland, where they met rector invited him to teach for a graduate student Peacebuilding Jr., and other U.S. civil rights of media messages and images. former combatants who now see spring semester. Trips to Derry, Northern Ireland. activists. John’s commitment to make how they were programmed and Since then, he has taken grad- Students learned about dialogue, In 1971, he started teaching a difference in students’ lives understand that their divisions uate students to the Florence pro- communication and sharing sto- communication at California State through media literacy and ex- were not Protestant vs. Catholic gram and supervised their travel ries of the people they met. in San Bernadino, while in gradu- periential learning overseas has as media had people believe. in Italy for 17 years. Like many, John had thought ate studies. In 1976, he earned a been influenced by his faith as a Through the Northwest Alli- Through a colleague in the from media reports that the fight master’s and in 1977, a doctoral Catholic. ance for Responsible Media (NW- Association of Jesuit Colleges in Northern Ireland was between degree from Claremont Graduate Owning property in Cagli, he ARM), he has helped people raise and Universities, he was invited Catholics and Protestants. Stu- School. He helped develop the expects to spend several weeks a questions about images of women to visit Cagli, an ancient town of dents met with former combatants field of intercultural communica- year there. He started Mercurio, and men in media, promoted teen 15,000 in the Apennine Moun- who said the fight was about civil tion while teaching 15 years at LLC, named after the Greek God health and media consumption, tains in Central Italy, out of the rights and having a piece of the Claremont. of communication, and will do a explored ways media can create a tourist zone. pie, not about religion. Media studies is a meeting summer school on media for 12 culture of peace, and taught teens For 17 summers, he took 30 The Peace Initiative, which was place for teaching peace, in- to 20 American students in Rome and adults about media literacy master’s students to Cagli, visit- developed by leaders, is fragile tercultural communication and and Cagli with Sapienza Univer- and digital citizenship. ing Florence on the way. John because it did not involve dia- diversity, he said. sity in Rome. He said media is one of the said Cagli offers an opportunity logue among grassroots people, John came to Gonzaga look- For information, call 220-5582 most powerful influences shap- to explore authentic Italian life. he said. ing for a faith-based liberal arts or email [email protected]. ing attitudes, values, beliefs and Students gained practical lan- “We start with a dialogue of school and a place less expensive behaviors of children, families guage skills, learned about culture storytelling, so we can see our- to live than the Bay Area, where and communities. by living in homes and developed selves in their stories,” John said. he taught as a visiting professor at John, who has taught since he dialogue skills. “If we can bring everyday people St. Mary’s College. was 22, will have emeritus status. Since 2010, students have done into discussions, they can break As the field of media literacy “It’s a calling,” he said. “I teach multimedia storytelling projects, down false assumptions. Then we began to grow, he began to teach communication because of its interviewing everyday people find similarities. It takes foresight it. Some wondered how it would centrality in people’s lives. about their lives, and using pho- to develop skills of empathy.” affect students entering media. “In recent years, communica- tography, writing and layout John said conflict arose as com- “I said it created thoughtful Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner tion has revolved around a radi- skills to produce “Faces of Cagli” munication broke down. In 2011, people in mass media,” John said. 7 days a week! facebook/colesbakeryandcafe cally altered society,” John said. books. a Peace Bridge was built in Derry With Don Higgins, director “What communications technolo- Four years ago, Spokane’s sister across the River Foyle, connecting of the West Central Community 521 E. Holland #20 - 509-413-1739 gies will keep us informed? If a print newspaper has a form with a cultural value, what happens to it online?” John said media studies are now less about practical skills of journalism and more theoretical, Earth. Humankind. Balance. about interpersonal and intercul- tural communication. At Holden Village, we live at the boundary of chaos and order. “What are multi-media ways Join us and discover ways of fi nding unity we tell stories?” John asked. “As with the world, with each other, with the divine. digitalization increases, what are

A center for renewal, for faith & for the earth. Page 6 - The Fig Tree - May 2019 NAACP Spokane may be small, but it’s a ‘mighty community of color’ Continued from page 1 systems are mindsets, policies and Just Lead Washington team, have what they have done and will do. practices that undermine equality, done several Implicit Bias train- She invited people to join the so he and Carmen Pacheco-Jones, ings since January for Leadership NAACP and the “new Spokane,” chair of the Spokane Regional Spokane, the NAACP, Gonzaga which she called Wakanda—a Law and Justice Council’s (SR- and the Northwest Fair Housing fictional African country—where LJC) Racial Equity Committee Alliance, and co-facilitated “Why “we understand we need each and Spokane NAACP second Race Matters” workshops with other and are each unique,” she vice president, are doing “Implicit Greater Spokane Progress. said. “We need to build the com- Bias” trainings. Along with those efforts, munity to be what we want it to “Given the propensity for pro- Devon Wilson, who has been on be, an oasis where neighbors love tectionism when a structure is the NAACP board since October and care about each other. challenged, it pushes back instead 2017 and chairs the Criminal “Amazing things have hap- of doing honest evaluation for Justice Committee, is building pened because of the NAACP,” meaningful change,” said Kurtis. relationships with Black Student she said. “We are a small but “I hope this training leads people Unions at Eastern Washington, mighty community of color.” Kurtis Robinson and Devon Wilson with charter in office in Spokane. to take personal responsibility and Gonzaga and Whitworth univer- James Wilburn, NAACP engage in practical applications.” sities and high schools to rebuild Spokane president from 2013 to legacy and leaders, looked at Maxey, 1951; James Sims, 1958; Implicit Bias Training, de- the NAACP’s internship program. 2014 and consultant/trainer with present leadership and action, and Joe Trim, 1969-76; Lydia Sims, veloped at Harvard University, is The 2018-19 interns are Hawa Wilburn & Associates, gave a offered challenges for the future. 1977-80; C.T. Wright, 1981; based on “understanding how the Elias and Gabriel Fuller. brief history: In 1619 a cargo ship Kurtis, a wildlands firefighter, Carl Boston: 1981-82, 1987-90; human mind absorbs 11 million A 2015 graduate of the Universi- brought to Virginia 20 “scientists, began as chair of the Criminal Samuel Baynes, 1983-86; Billy bits of unconscious information ty of Kentucky in psychology and technologists, engineers and Justice Committee in 2016 and Monis, 1990-97; Percy (Happy) and 40 bits that are conscious, like political science, Devon came to mathematicians” who were off became president in May 2017. Watkins, 1998; Richard Williams, the thickness of a sheet of paper,” Spokane in 2016 and is now CHAS loaded. They and their descen- He is adjusting his work so he has 1998-99; Eileen Thomas, 1999- he said. “Implicit internalized un- health public policy manager. dants were enslaved for 250 years flexibility to lead efforts challeng- 2003; V. Anne Smith, 2003-2012; derstandings lead to unconscious The NAACP Spokane Board until 1865. After the Emancipa- ing the number of people of color James Wilburn, 2013; Roberta judgments and responses.” also includes Deborah Cano, tion Proclamation, former slaves incarcerated, the eight deaths in Wilburn, 2014; Rachel Dolezal, Kurtis believes awareness helps secretary; Dorothy Webster, trea- gained rights. From 1885 to 1890, 14 months in Spokane’s jail and 2015; Naima Quarles Burnley, people deconstruct some influ- surer; Sharon Randall, first vice there were 17 African Americans the talk of a new jail. 2015-16; Phil Tyler, 2016-17, and ences embedded in individuals president; and Wesley Gardner, in Congress and one in the Senate, The NAACP works with the Kurtis Robinson, 2017-2019. for generations and programmed third vice president. Committee but by 1909, Jim Crow, the KKK Spokane Community Against “They are among the powerful, into societal structure as racism, chairs are Alin Zander, health and lynchings slowed progress. Racism, which is leading a col- prominent leaders who helped criminalization and dehumanizing care; Stacey Wells, political ac- In 1909, the Niagara Move- laborative “No New Jail” effort keep the wheel for equality and otherisms. He seeks to help people tion, and Jim Mohr, centennial ment, a civil rights group led by with Smart Justice, the Peace and justice moving in a system set understand where “we are at” as celebration. Members at large are W.E.B. DuBois, founded the bi- Justice Action League of Spo- against us,” said Kurtis. “We are a society and culture, and “how Ike Okoli, Janet Pinkey Colbert- racial NAACP. kane, Greater Spokane Progress building on what they did.” we can intentionally replace those son and Kiantha Duncan. “Ten years later, the NAACP and I Did the Time. He said “justice cries out in the understandings with healthier, For information, call 209-2425 formed Spokane chapter 1137. “We are building on the backs midst of disparities in the criminal restorative perspectives of self or 631-2009 or kurtisrobinson@ Our people still are fighting. In of great national and local legends, justice system, exclusionary dis- and our human family,” he said. live.com Devon 270-933-2780 Spokane, the scientists, technolo- from our founders to civil rights cipline in the school systems, the Kurtis and Carmen, as part of a or [email protected]. gists, engineers and mathemati- attorney Carl Maxey, to Spokane’s high number of police contacts cians produced astronaut Michael first African-American Mayor Jim with people of color, the use of P. Anderson,” Jim said, inviting Chase to long-time civil rights force by police, bail inequities, Fig Tree is source of stories on NAACP people to donate to the scholarship activist V. Ann Smith,” he said. and housing discrimination in The Fig Tree online has many presidents and reports on actions fund named for him. Presidents over the years have rentals and home ownership. stories on the NAACP Spokane. over 35 years. The NAACP Spokane’s cur- been T.A. Jones, 1919; Frank “That list tells our chapter not While a Google search of Spokane Jim Sims and Happy Watkins rent president, Kurtis Robinson, Stokes, 1919-22, 1928, 1931-44; to let past efforts be in vain,” he NAACP presidents draws nearly were among those on the Spokane then asked, “What kind of Spo- Emmet Reed, 1923-24, 1945; said. “We need to move forward, 10 pages about media coverage Christian Coalition Board when it kane do we want? Do we want John Thompson, 1925, 1930; so our children will not face of former NAACP president voted to establish The Fig Tree. children of color to struggle for Emmett Holmes, 1929; Rev. J.T. what we face. Without advocacy Rachel Dolezal, a white woman NAACP Spokane and Fig Tree resources to learn successfully?” Morton, 1946; James Chase, and accountability, injustice will who represented herself as black, collaborate on the Eastern Wash- In an interview before the meet- 1947-48, 1950, 1952-57, 1959- continue to thrive.” a search on thefigtree.org brings ington Legislative Conference. ing, Kurtis reviewed the chapter’s 68; Vernon Scott, 1949; Carl Kurtis said embedded in the names of many of the NAACP For information, visit www. Spokane leaders, profiles on past thefigtree.org. Dwayne Mack book includes stories on leaders More history is in Dwayne of the vote in the city that was just ism began in the 1960s in the Mack in his book, Black Spokane: 1.5 percent African American. Spokane NAACP. As a student at The Civil Rights Struggle in the In- • After serving in the military, EWU, she participated in a suc- land Northwest, and other sources: James Sims, who had a bachelor’s cessful movement to desegregate Nourish Teach flourish • In 1900, there were 360 black degree from Lincoln University Cheney public schools. people in a population of 65,000; and a master’s in history from In 1975, she became Spokane’s in the 1950s, 1,300 in a communi- Gonzaga University, applied for a affirmative action specialist and ty of 160,000 with black soldiers position with the Washington State was later appointed the city’s hu- at Geiger Field; in 1965, 2,600 Office of Community Develop- man resources director, the first out of about 180,000. The 2010 ment. Although he excelled in the African-American department census shows about 2 percent civil service exam, the state denied manager in the city’s history. She or 7,800 African-Americans in him the job. With the help of helped other African Americans, Spokane’s population of 390,000. civil rights attorney Carl Maxey, women and marginalized people • In the 1950s and 1960s, James he sued the state, won and was find jobs. N-SID-SEN-Camp & Retreat Center Chase, who was NAACP president employed as a state social worker. In 1977, she was elected the several times, brought civil rights In the 1950s, he was a minister first African-American woman A year-round retreat center for your youth group, leader Rosa Parks to Spokane in at the Calvary Baptist Church, and president of the 113-member church gathering, workshop or meeting space. 1956. He served on the Spokane in the mid-1960s, became pastor NAACP branch and established With 200+ acres and 1/4 mile of beachfront, City Council and in 1981 was of New Hope Baptist. its annual job fair in 1978. we welcome you to the eastern shores elected mayor, winning 60 percent • Lydia Sims’ political activ- More at thefigtree.org. of Lake Coeur d’Alene.

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Thrivent Financial representatives are licensed insurance agents/producers of Thrivent. For additional important information, visit Thrivent.com/disclosures. This is a solicitation www.n-sid-sen.org • 208-689-3489 Mon-Fri 11 am-6 pm for insurance. A Thrivent Financial representative may contact you. Appleton, Wisconsin • Minneapolis, Minnesota 36395 S Highway 97, Harrison, Idaho 83833 Sat 10-6, Sun 12-5 ICC15 28943 N1-16 Thrivent.com • 800-847-4836 May 2019 - The Fig Tree - Page 7 Celebration of 140th is time for Spokane’s oldest church to look to future s Spokane’s oldest church, Westminster Congrega- Ational UCC, celebrates its 140th anniversary, at 2 p.m., Sunday, May 26. Its celebration is lifting up not only its history but also its present and future. Westminster has invited Spo- kane’s Mayor and City Council members, other congregations, colleagues in town, as well as Church members carry its banner in marches for social justice. members of the Pacific NW UCC Conference to join in the celebration. Former and current choir members will sing music commissioned for the event. There will also be an exhibition Andy CastroLang circulates in congregation before worship. of local artists with work on “How our Spiritual Journeys Inform School, Emmanuel Metropolitan and other faith groups. Our Art.” Community Church, a food bank, Each month, members cook Church’s MardiBras gathers items for Transitions and Hope House. When it was chartered as First a clothing bank and Discovery meals when the Spokane Friends Congregational Church on May School. It was sold in 2005 and Church hosts homeless families Rico to help people there with ing for ministry. 22, 1879, in the home of Henry has been torn down. in its building through the Family rebuilding after Hurricanes Irma Westminster, which has a pipe and Lucy Cowley, it was the first In 1963, Westminster voted Promise Bridges program. and Maria in 2017. organ and a strong music pro- church in Spokane. It changed to join the United Church of Members support homeless While the church has the bud- gram, rents space to the Spokane its name both in 1893 when it Christ denomination, a merger women at Hope House and home- get challenges with upkeep on a Children’s Choir, Spokane Youth merged with an early Westminster of the Congregational Christian, less youth through Crosswalk, large building, Andy said that the Symphony and others. Presbyterian Church and in 1961 and Evangelical and Reformed two programs of Volunteers of dedicated, passionate, but small For information, call 624-1366 when it voted to become part of denominations nationally. About America of the Inland Northwest. congregation is using legacy fund- or visit westminsterucc.org. the United Church of Christ. 500 members voted “no.” Some Its annual Jam for Bread concert The Cowleys were missionar- of them formed Plymouth Con- has raised funds for Crosswalk. ies from New York State, serving gregational Church in Spokane. Recently the church opened as MOVING? among the Nez Perce Indians in The church’s past, present and a neighbor to people living in an WE ARE ABSOLUTELY THE BEST! Lapwai. They moved to Spokane future show its commitment to apartment building next door after • Full-time trained movers in 1874 to work with the Spokane be involved with the community a fire. The Red Cross worked in the www.danthepianoman.com • Trucks & all equipment provided Indians and set up a school for and world. church to find housing for people.” • No move too small. • No move too big. Indian and settler children. Two “As a downtown church, we It also opened this winter as Free written estimates! members of the Spokane Tribe are committed to the city,” said a warming shelter for about 20 Senior discounts Licensed & Insured were among the first members. Andrea (Andy) CastroLang, who homeless young adult men and CALL TODAY: 509-928-4738 The church first met in the has been pastor since 2002. “In women each night through April school and then built a church at recent years we researched leav- in conjunction with the City of the corner of Sprague and Ber- ing that corner, including looking Spokane. nard. From 1890 to 1893, they at a site on the east end of Spokane It helps organize the annual built the gray stone structure on Valley, but the congregation voted community Tree of Sharing at Make The Fig Tree the present site at the corner of to stay downtown. three malls to provide gifts to 4th and Washington. “A downtown church is who about 8,000 needy people. Possible! One of seven plaques set in the we are in our outreach, mission For years, women met regu- pavement at Inspiration Point in and ministry,” she said. “It’s our larly with sewing machines and Join our advertisers Riverfront Park in 1974 to com- identity. While some traditional, knitting needles to make layettes memorate local Christian pioneers mainline Protestant churches have for babies. to promote your work records that this was the first left downtown, we are letting the Many members have been with our targeted audience church organized in Spokane. city know we are here. We’re a among those in the community Other early congregations in progressive church that ministers involved with editing, mailing, and connect Spokane include Central United ecumenically at the city’s core. delivering and producing the Methodist, November 1879; Our We are activist both in terms of 35-year-old The Fig Tree ecu- your good name with ours! Lady of Lourdes, 1881; First doing charity and advocating menical/interfaith newspaper. Presbyterian, 1883; Salem, Em- systemic change.” Westminster members carry a 535-1813 manuel and Our Savior Lutheran It is not only LGBTQ inclu- banner every year in the Martin churches, 1888; Holy Trinity sive, but also involves people of Luther King Jr. Day March, the and St. David’s Episcopal, 1890, all ages who seek an inclusive Women’s March, the Pride Parade Grace (formerly North Side) church. It recently welcomed and other marches for social jus- Baptist, 1890. eight new members. tice and human rights. From 1920 to 1946, the church “With UCC churches scat- The church also partners with grew to 2,000 members. They tered on the West Coast, we work the Unitarian Universalist Church Making a Positive built the Cowley Memorial Youth ecumenically and interfaith with of Spokane in a sister church rela- Building on Fourth and Bernard in other congregations, organiza- tionship in Felsorakos, Romania, 1958 to accommodate programs tions and people,” said Andy. and is hosting the new pastor and Difference in the for the “baby boom” generation. It helped found the Mid-City his wife soon. As the number of children Concerns Meals on Wheels and Recently five members joined and youth declined, the building recruited volunteers for many 20 others from the Pacific North- Lives of Seniors housed the Peace and Justice years. west Conference of the United Action League of Spokane, Pa- With the Spokane Alliance, it Church of Christ and the North- cific Northwest UCC Conference engages in community organizing west Region Disciples for a Peace offices, the Spokane Guilds’ with education institutions, unions Mission and Pilgrimage to Puerto

312 W. Hastings Road (West off Hwy. 395) North Spokane www.fairwoodretirement.com Page 8 - The Fig Tree - May 2019 Post Falls church creates Pregnancy Support Center to assist mothers By Kaye Hult children settled into school there. Scripture is an anchor for her. The Pregnancy Support Center “Everyone reached out to the While she and Tom were in is one of several outreach minis- family at Christmas,” she said. transition, a friend invited Joan tries St. George’s Catholic Church “They called in January to tell to volunteer at a pregnancy sup- in Post Falls has created, because the center they were doing okay.” port center, introducing her to Fr. Timothy Ritchey encourages The Pregnancy Support Center a program like the one she now parishioners to open their hearts to is open on Tuesday mornings at manages. God and follow through to create 2004 N. Lucas St. in Post Falls. In 2006, they moved to Liberty a ministry when they feel called. Usually six volunteers, out of a Lake because their children live in Joan and Tom Neary started pool of 12 women, are available the area. They began attending the Pregnancy Support Center to serve women who come. They St. George’s. because they felt called to work also have a hotline women can “Faith is my foundation,” with pregnant women. call to make an appointment to Joan said. “It allows me to deal “Each North Idaho and Eastern meet with someone on another with crisis experiences, such as Washington mother who comes to day. Tom developing ALS. Because of us has a different story,” said Joan, “We have six active mothers,” ups and downs in my life experi- who has a nursing background. Joan said. “We offer free diapers ences, I drew closer to God. “When they come, they usually and other material assistance. We “Throughout Tom’s illness, I have done pregnancy tests and aren’t counselors, but we listen to had peace beyond the circum- seen a doctor. them as women who have been stances. God provided for and “Our mission is to offer assis- Joan Neary finds fulfillment in caring for mothers and children. mothers.” transformed us. Tom died in Photo by Kaye Hult tance,” she continued, “such as Volunteers also organize baby 2007,” she said. mentoring, spiritual support, ma- to clients outright, we pledge with all their possessions. clothes, work on a Facebook page When Joan was a teenager, terial assistance, referrals to other funds for electric bills, heat, rent, “The family had nowhere to and facilitate the parenting videos. getting pregnant out of wedlock helping agencies and ongoing car bills and such. When they stay,” Joan said. “We gave them Rosemary McDougall, St. was seen as a crisis. In contrast, support. We offer free pregnancy come back with proof they have three nights in a motel until the George’s Parish visiting nurse, is the women and girls she meets tests and referrals for sonograms, raised enough from us and other weekend. Another program of St. on the support center board. now through the Pregnancy Sup- if needed.” sources to pay what they owe, we George’s, the Mission of Charity, Joan, who was the oldest of port Center “offer no apologies,” Pregnancy can create emer- give the amount we pledged to the gave them another two nights to seven children, grew up in St. she reflected. “It is what it is. gent situations for some people, utility, landlord or car company,” cover the weekend.” Mary’s Parish in Moscow. After God uses those experiences in Joan explained. It affects an ex- she said. The family ate home cooked high school, she graduated from them. God calls us in different pectant mother’s ability to work. The Pregnancy Support Center meals Thursday evenings at the Sacred Heart School of Nursing ways. I’ve learned not to be If she loses hours, she earns less tried referring clients to local par- Friendship Kitchen, another out- in 1967. judgmental. They are on their to pay her bills. enting programs, but the women reach program at St. George’s. After she married Tom in 1968, own journey dealing with many The center’s clients include did not attend, so they created The kitchen serves about 200 they moved about in the Air Force different struggles. Our support women who are pregnant or have their own parenting program. meals Thursdays, beginning at for 30 years. He retired when and care for them is fulfilling. children under two years old. If “We show about 15 to 20 videos 4 p.m. The church has run it for they were in Cheyenne, Wyo., “We never know what part of the women begin when they are that go with a curriculum,” she more than 20 years in conjunction where Joan was a hospice nurse. our ministry will touch someone,” pregnant, and are committed to said. “We offer the incentive of with other congregations in the They moved to Virginia for Tom Joan said. “It’s in the surprises bettering their situation, the center ‘Mommy Dollars,’ which can go community. to work with a Pentagon contrac- that we see how God makes things works with them even after their towards free gas or food. We have “We then referred them tor, and Joan continued in hospice happen.” children are older than two. an agreement with a nearby gas to Family Promise in Coeur nursing. For information, call 208-449- The center refers the mothers station and grocery store.” d’Alene,” she continued. “They They led Bible studies through 8512 or email northidahohopsc@ to Early Head Start to give their Joan sees generational poverty, stayed in that program while they those years. Joan said studying gmail.com. children a strong beginning to where agencies, including their sought jobs.” their education. own, try repeatedly to help, but The center continued to assist They also refer women to plac- clients dig themselves deeper into by providing baby supplies and a es that teach them skills, such as trouble. deposit on an apartment, because North Idaho College’s Qualified Many clients succeed, such as the parents had a plan to pay the Worker Retraining Program,” the family that drove to see them rent and utilities. Joan said. “They can move ahead last October. In their small car By Christmas, the family and earn a higher income. were four children. One was a moved into a place in Hayden, and “While we do not give money new baby. They had left Arizona both parents were working. The

Our Caregiver Support Programs are available to Whitworth Ministry Summit will be June 24-27 unpaid caregivers helping loved ones aged 55+ Whitworth’s 45th annual Min- be a time of spiritual renewal Westwinds Community Church istry Summit. formerly the Whit- and quiet. in Jackson, Mich., on innovative • Individual counseling/support groups worth Institute of Ministry (WIM) The pre-conference retreat will churches; Leah Kostamo, author • Respite, if you need a break will be held from June 24 to 27, begin at 11 a.m., Monday, June 24, of Planted: a Story of Creation, • Medical equipment, supplies & services earlier and one day less than the at Colbert Presbyterian Church for Calling and Community, on cre- Call FBH-Elder Services 509-458-7450 WIM, said Mindy Smith, associ- a spiritual retreat, Taize worship, ation care; Greg Scheer, music ate director of Whitworth’s Office prayer and silence. associate at the Calvin Institute of Aging & Long Term Care - Advocacy . Action . Answers for Church Engagement. The Rev. Luke Powery, dean Christian Worship, on formational Another difference is that WIM of Duke University Chapel and worship; Matt Overton, Presbyte- was geared for clergy and fami- associate professor of homiletics rian youth pastor, on youth minis- Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch lies, and the summit is for anyone at Duke Divinity School, will be try; Michael Carrion, director of interested in ministry. evening speaker for the summit. City to City, on church planting; Eight themes or tracks will The morning plenary speaker is Inés Velásquez-McBrydeis, an follow the eight focuses of call- David Swanson, the founding pas- ordained pastor, preacher, recon- ing communities of the OCE that tor of New Community Covenant ciler, on reconciliation, and David are meeting each month for book Church, an intentionally multira- Hillis, an urban trainer in Tacoma, studies, meals and resource shar- cial congregation in Chicago’s on being called to the city. ing as part of a $1.5 million Lilly Bronzeville neighborhood. He For information, call 777-4341 Endowment grant. is also CEO of New Community or email mindysmith@whitworth. Those tracks are formational Outreach, a nonprofit that works edu. Sunday, May 12 worship, faithful preaching, cre- collaboratively to reduce causes ation care, youth ministry, church of trauma in the city. 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. planting, reconciliation, immi- Speakers are Mary Hulst, chap- Celebrating All-you-can-eat grants and refugees, and “called lain at Calvin College since 2009, buffet… to the city.” on faithful preaching; David 10 years Before the summit, there will McDonald, teaching pastor at carving station… of Fair Trade at omelet bar… decadent desserts... Sometimes the soul needs space. and a special gift for mom.

Adults $35 Children $15 (ages 6-12) All Proceeds Support IHRC’s Ministry Take the journey within. For Reservations: (509)448-1224 or www.ihrc.net Retreats at Spirit Center www.Spirit-Center.org Join us for the crowning of the Blessed Mother 208-962-2000 before 8 a.m. Mass Monastery of St. Gertrude + Cottonwood, Idaho Sign up today for our daily reflections www.ihrc.net May 2019 - The Fig Tree - Page 9 ALTCEW Planning and Management Council recruiting volunteers As the “graying of America” housing access, safety and af- mental health. shifts to the “aging of America” in fordability for people on a fixed Lynn said a person on Medicaid the next few years, Jean Kindem, income, she said. has mental health treatment, but a volunteer on the Aging and Long “If a landlord raises the rent, when they transition to Medi- Term Care of Eastern Washington older people on social security and care, they may lose mental health (ALTCEW) Planning and Man- retirement incomes often cannot services. agement Council, expects a “mon- find another job to pay for the “There are always gaps,” she soon” of issues will arise related increase,” said Lynn. said, “so the council helps identify to affordable housing, dementia “As Spokane has blossomed,” issues and alert us to resources. care, health care and home care. Jean said, “there is not enough As there are new programs and The percentage of people 60+ housing.” services, we may partner with new living in Spokane County has in- Both told of limited opportuni- agencies.” creased dramatically in the last 10 ties for housing for elderly people. Jean said partnerships may to 15 years—from 16 percent in “There is a limited amount of include working with insurance 2000 to nearly 19 percent in 2010, housing available at a rate people companies. she said. It is projected to increase on social security and retirement “Many people can be cared for to about 28 percent in 20 years incomes can afford,” Jean said. in their homes,” Lynn said. “If as people live longer because of Lynn finds much emphasis on they are stabilized in the com- better medical care. and advocacy for people who are munity, we don’t need to talk of “Children of elders may be homeless, but not for housing for facilities and bed counts.” surprised when their parents be- older adults. Jean wants to help keep people come ill or handicapped,” Jean “As people develop affordable in their own homes rather than said. “They need to know if bills Jean Kindem works with Lynn Kimball on program evaluation. housing, we will be partners,” building facilities that institution- are paid and how to access bank Lynn said, noting participation in alize people. accounts to pay for electricity, Six years ago, she began vol- an answering machine, because Spokane’s Consolidated Plan for Lynn spoke of the need to sup- phone and taxes.” unteering as one of 35 serving someone may be making a first Housing. port families who give home care, Lynn Kimball, executive direc- on the council. Since January call for help. Jean said ALTCEW needs to be but having facilities when people tor of ALTCEW for four years, said the council has had 17 focus • Everyone is experiencing or proactive on housing so funds go need more care. Americans are so youth focused groups listening in the five coun- will experience issues with elderly to help older adults find affordable A third committee addresses few think that they will age or need ties ALTCEW serves—Spokane, parents, spouses or children with housing, as well as homelessness. quality assurance, especially for long-term care or support at home, Whitman, Stevens, Ferry and disabilities. “Seniors should not need to be- 51 percent of services ALTCEW and few plan ahead for parents. Pend Oreille—to discover issues • With the tight housing market, come homeless to find housing,” contracts to other agencies. It “Everyone needs to be proac- for different populations, from more elderly people are struggling said Lynn. monitors how they spend the tive and make plans,” said Jean, individuals with memory loss to with the lack of affordable housing. “Housing insecurity is a threat,” money and builds relationships “about housing, nursing, home older LGBT adults. “We need to identify for ALT- she said. “For older adults, home- with different organizations. care and family support.” “We need more volunteers to CEW what services are working lessness may be disguised as liv- “Our volunteer council can She returned to Spokane after be the eyes and ears to evaluate and what are not working,” she ing with a son, daughter or other dive deeply into issues,” Jean raising her family in Minnesota to ALTCEW services and contrac- said. “If a service is not being family member.” said. “We have time to meet with care for her mother in the 1980s. tors,” said Jean, who recently used, we can advertise its avail- A second committee works on people and evaluate services.” She worked more than 23 years gave a recruiting presentation at ability or move funds to other planning, which includes plan- “Volunteers don’t need to be with Group Health as an admin- her church, Central Lutheran in areas where the Planning and ning for the increase in dementia, experts, just be interested in the istrator for Medicaid patients, Spokane. She said it was a natural Management Council sees needs.” with the need for a system of services that are being provided,” retiring in 2004. place for her to reach out, because The Planning and Management care from the diagnosis, to early- she said. Jean knows about issues not only it has offered her support during Council was set up in 1978 to as- and medium-state treatment, to For information, call 458-2509, from listening to others, but also the caregiving she has done. sist the agency in making sure its support for families, and to ad- email [email protected] or from her own experiences caring The Planning and Management services met needs of older adults. dressing behaviors, violence and visit altcew.org. for her mother and her sister who Council meets 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Jean discussed the work of moved from Seattle into Jean’s last Fridays, 10 months a year to several committees. home five years ago. Her sister help ALTCEW plan and evaluate The Advocacy Committee now lives at an Able Adult Family its programs. advocates for older adults in the Home and goes to Spokane Valley Completing two three-year state legislature as it develops its Providence Adult Daycare. Jean terms, she is starting a term as the budget and bills. It also tracks appreciates that she could move her Spokane Valley representative. federal bills and informs constitu- sister into a facility with more care. From volunteering and care- ents, who then can make phone In addition, her son cared for giving, Jean is aware of issues: calls and write letters. her husband, who had Alzheim- • Service providers need to have Currently, there is need for er’s, before he died in Minnesota. someone answer the phone, not advocacy related to the lack of

Human Rights Education Institute starts program Helping area non-profits The Human Rights Education place where difficult questions of Untamed Creativity in Copen- grow & prosper Institute (HREI) in Coeur d’Alene are expected and appreciated, hagen, Denmark. will present a program on the and a lifetime of questions can be “I learned about the struggle/ global Human Library project, answered,” she said. pressure to conform to an un- from 1 to 4 p.m., Saturday, June It’s based on the idea that or- healthy societal role and the cour- 8, its second of three events for dinary people have extraordinary age it takes to liberate oneself, as 2019. stories to tell. well as the healing that comes from It is designed to build a frame- This program helps people the journey,” said a reader at the work for conversations that can make sense of another individ- Human Library in Coeur d’Alene. challenge stereotypes and prej- ual’s life story, understanding The HREI will feature a range udices through dialogue and uncertainties they may have de- of stories including those of some- provide an opportunity to open veloped over a lifetime and asking one who is an atheist, someone individuals’ minds in a positive questions about their journeys. living with low vision/blindness, way and help them better under- “This helped me better under- a recovering addict, and a peace stand the misunderstandings they stand myself. ‘Human Library’ officer. may have of others, said Jeanette sounded kind of square to me, so For information, call 208-292- Laster, executive directory. I had never expected it to be such a 2359, email [email protected] or “The Human Library is a place powerful and moving experience,” visit hrei.org/newsandevents/ where real people are on loan, a said a student from the Academy upcoming-events/. Compassionate pricing NO Taizé prayer service with superior service. during the summer We will NOT have Taizé prayer (509)467-5496 in May, June and July 2019. holycrossofspokane.org May you have a most blessed summer.

A NON-PROFIT MINISTRY OF THE We hope to see you in August! CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF Check on times in August by contacting Shonna Bartlett at 7200 N. Wall, Spokane, WA 99208 SPOKANE 313-5765 or [email protected] HOLY CROSS ST. JOSEPH QUEEN OF PEACE MEETING THE NEEDS OF THE FAITHFUL: FUNERAL | CREMATION | CEMETERY | FAMILY ESTATES Page 10 - The Fig Tree - May 2019

Editorial Reflections Earth Day Vigil is a wake-up call to care for and heal Planet Earth The Earth Day Vigil drew about 100 par- but now the areas are commitment to ecological education and ticipants who sang, read ref lections, shared being over-fished and challenge to space junk, air pollution, resources, offered prayers and challenged over-hunted. We need commercialization of and toxic waste in each other to help heal the earth. to fight corporations water, greed and addictive attitudes. They One felt sad that few people gathered and governments that call for treating all creation as brother and on Earth Day. It was a 5:15 p.m., Monday do not protect the envi- sister, exercising responsible stewardship, event, not something traditional. ronment, she said. and sheltering those affected by global We forget the power generated when Hana Reinhardt, a warming. two or three gather. We forget the power leader with the Spo- • The Silver Valley Community Re- of prayer. We forget the need to renew kane Youth Strike for source Center has worked 30 years to re- our commitment. We forget the power of the Environment, said store the environment in the U.S.’s largest encounters that happened at The Gathering the Earth is sick be- Superfund site, educating families on lead Place beside the Spokane River. We forget cause of human igno- exposure, creating the Children Run Better the power of all that the people gathered rance, arrogance and greed. She called Challenge. In April, 20 from the cathedral Unleaded project, securing cleanup jobs, there are doing day-to-day. for everyone to work together to heal the and Temple Beth Shalom partnered with establishing the Community Lead Health Carol Evans, the first woman chair planet—young and old, poor and rich, all the Spokane Soil Conservation District to Clinic/Center, and gathering signatures of the Spokane Tribe, reminded that the languages and all colors, adding: “No one plant 200 birch, red osier dogwoods, grand opposing storing toxic waste at the Cataldo environment, land, air and water are gifts can do this alone.” Youth are striking for fir, elderberry and aspen trees at 8th and Mission. given to us, not ours to own and destroy, the Green New Deal, a halt to fossil fuel Havana, a former gravel quarry in the early • For 35 years, The Fig Tree and its Re- but to take care of for future generations. infrastructure, government decisions to be stages of restoration to its natural state. source Directory have connected people, Deb Abrahamson, a witness to perse- tied to research and 100 percent renewable • One Peace Many Paths promotes shared stories of people making a differ- verance, told of returning from retirement energy. diversity, compassion, understanding, ence in addressing justice and ethics issues, when the Newmont Mine decided to step Several groups shared what they do: cooperation and peace to benefit all, and offered dialogue to foster understand- back from cleanup promises. She and her • Faith Leaders and Leaders of Con- including Mother Earth. It sponsors the ing, networking groups and individuals to nine siblings used to swim in the lakes and science of Eastern Washington and North Spokane Compassion Games three to four share resources and join in action to heal creeks that are now polluted with radiation. Idaho works to overcome racism, milita- times a year to engage participants in acts the earth. Environment is consistently a Barbara Miller of the Silver Valley rism, poverty and ecological devastation. of kindness. workshop topic at the Eastern Washington Resource Center reminds us we are at the Last June they began working on the vigil • Since 1892, the Sierra Club has helped Legislative Conference. epicenter of the nation’s largest Superfund to draw attention to the fact that we live people enjoy, explore and protect the plan- The 2019 Earth Day Vigil, “Heal the site and are called to be stewards of the on the largest Superfund site in the nation. et’s resources, promoting equity and justice Earth,” was an opportunity for awaken- earth. She has worked for cleanup for • Responsible Growth Northeast in securing a healthy world. The Upper ing, for pledging to do action, for signing three decades, fighting for quality of life Washington works to stop the proposed Columbia River Group has worked since up with groups that came, and for sharing for the children. silicon smelter in Newport and develop the 1968 for clean, naturally flowing rivers and with others to help wake them up, to keep Phyllis Kardos said that at 77 she economy in responsible ways that protect aquifers, water conservation, cross-border vigilant. Next fall there will be a second stepped out of retirement for her children, forests, agriculture and open spaces. collaboration on dams, preserving wilder- vigil from 3 to 5 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 6, at grandchildren and 30 great grandchil- • The Episcopal Diocese of Spokane, ness, cleaning up toxic mining wastes, and the Cataldo Mission in Idaho. The plan is dren to be an activist in opposing what is with Spokane Ponderosa and the Lands conducting outings and hikes for education to hold an event for healing the Earth every proposed to be the largest silicon smelter Council, will water 5,000 newly planted and enjoyment. six months. in North America in her back yard at seedlings on the North-South Corridor. • In 2017, the Sisters of St. Francis Mary Stamp - Editor Newport. For 22 years in Alaska, she They have adopted a tract of 200 trees, as of Philadelphia proclaimed their corpo- saw areas that were clean and pristine, part of the national church’s Creation Care rate national stand on environment with EDITORS NOTE: Instead of an doing

Excerpts-Speakers Sounding Board Benefit Breakfast Benefit Breakfast speakers share what they value about The Fig Tree Gary Stokes - general manager KSPS learn. Careful the things you wish. Wishes are bad, remember our lives are not about I hope we can bridge the gap with young We know the purpose and power of are children. Careful the tale you tell. That us and reach for The Fig Tree. Read good people, so we can have young readers the The Fig Tree, 35 years of stories of faith is the spell.” news that happens every day in our own age of my kids who have come with my in action. As one How did I get to work with Catholic neighborhoods. Those tales won’t tell father to the benefit breakfast for years. I who knows a few Charities where we encounter every day the themselves, so support The Fig Tree. hope this paper will move forward with things about sto- homeless, the hungry, the sick, the person that generation. rytelling, other suffering with mental illness, the victim James Watkins, board member and than KSPS, few of domestic violence, the ex-offender, the pastor at New Hope Baptist Church Denise Attwood, co-owner do it better than working poor or the immigrant? I thank Mary and her wonderful staff of Ganesh Himal Trading Company The Fig Tree. For My family’s faith journey, how they for 35 years of I have a fair trade business called Ga- 35 years, Mary modeled living out faith values, encourag- wonderful work. nesh Himal and a nonprofit organization, and her team have ing questions and sharing stories, in no As I took over Conscious Connections Foundation, which been telling the small way led me to my life’s work. It is the as pastor of New promotes girls’ education in Nepal. The Fig stories of people tale my family told both explicitly and by Hope Baptist Tree has for years brought the international who let their faith example. I learned my life is not about me. Church from my to the local. I am so grateful for that, be- guide them in ways that make our commu- I support The Fig Tree because it tells father, I came to cause the things we struggle for in our own nity better. It shares stories that inspire as us stories that are know Mary and communities, people are struggling with all much as inform, stories that feed the soul not about me. It the paper more, over the world. and the spirit, and stories that show good tells us stories we seeing the hard Mary has been people doing good things, good work right desperately need work, long hours, able to tell our in this place we call home. to hear, stories compassion and story many times, As you think about how to support The we likely won’t patience she shows. She and her team have through many Fig Tree and all it does in the community, hear anywhere done awesome work, putting together so avenues to give from one media institution to another, else, stories about many wonderful stories. people a chance remember what you give is important, but people living out As I meditated on what to say, I thought: to look at how we making sure you support The Fig Tree is their faith values, What if Mary had never started the paper. connect heart-to- most important. community val- What if the 35 years never happened. Think heart around the ues and relational of all the stories that would not have had globe. Scott Cooper – director of Parish Social values—people who understand their lives attention. Look at all the people who would The Fig Tree is Ministries at Catholic Charities are not about them. I learn about others, not have had the spotlight and been helped. an avenue for social justice stories. Mary Tell me your story and I will tell you their journeys, work, missions and contribu- What can I do? I hope to bridge the gap. followed Global Folk Art, Ganesh Himal, mine. My family story isn’t just about our tions to communities through these pages. I know I have gray in my beard, but I hope Kizuri, fair trade festivals and Conscious origins in different parts of Europe, immi- When we feel we’re in a clown car on to be a bridge to the next generation. This Connections’ work with girls in rural Nepal. gration, marriages, education, relocation, our way to a circus, take a wrong turn to work has to move forward. I think how hard Without The Fig Tree, people in Spokane vocations, generations. My family’s story find they moved the circus to the middle of Mary works. How much longer can she would not understand the depth and value is also about our faith journeys. How did a prison riot, my reaction, in the midst of do this? She answered the question. This of fair trade. I hope you will all support the I learn to understand our connection to a that hectic energy, when I pick up The Fig is her passion, her love and, even though work of The Fig Tree because it’s vital to loving God? What stories did I grow up Tree, is one of slowing down, taking a deep she’s retirement age, this is what she wants the work we all do together. When I open hearing? breath, focusing my attention, opening my to do, but I also hope we can bridge the gap The Fig Tree, I find things I never knew In the musical “Into the Woods,” Stephen perspective to read about real people do- and move a younger generation to love the about Spokane and I grew up here. The Sondheim gives us some insightful lyrics. ing real work in real communities, stories paper, like we love it, and that we can bring Fig Tree stories give me the opportunity Every parent should relate: “Careful the I won’t find anywhere else—real news. a younger generation into the fold of faith, to know and learn about many people. I things you say, children will listen. Care- We may sometimes feel community is good news and the stories she has given us hope young people who are journalists will ful the things you do, children will see and coming apart, but when we think times for so many years. come and work with this amazing woman. 35th Anniversary donations may be sent to The Fig Tree - 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane WA 99202 or thefigtree.org/donate.html May 2019 - The Fig Tree - Page 11

Calendar of Events C & H Foreign Auto Repair E. 620 North Foothills Dr. Spokane, WA 99207 Spokane Library locations • 444-5311 p.m., cceasternwa.org EDWARD W. CUSHMAN 487-9683 OR 484-5221 Downtown, 906 W. Main • South Hill, 3324 S. Perry May 10-24 • “A Walk Through Poverty” exhibit, artist Shadle, 2111 W. Wellesley • North Spokane, 44 E. Hawthorne Cameron Day explores poverty in Inland May 1 • May Day March, Spokane Immigrant Rights Northwest, North Spokane Library, library hours, Coalition, Riverfront Park, 4 to 6:30 p.m. film May 23, 7 p.m., 893-8350 MAYA EARTH COFFEE May 2 • Wild and Scenic Film Festival, screening May 11 • Spokane Farmers’ Market opens, Fifth & Earth friendly gourmet blend of films on environmental issues to benefit Browne, 8 a.m., to 1 p.m. Spokane Riverkeeper, Garland Theatre, 924 W • 3,000 Years of Tunesian Culture, South Hill Shade Grown Indigenous Coffee Garland, 6 p.m. doors open, 7 p.m. films, 327- Library, 1 p.m. Purchase by text, email or online 1050, spokaneriverkeeper.org/calendar • Chinese Inclusion in Telling Western Stories, [email protected] May 2, 9, 16 • “Love Is Not Enough: Growing Up Black South Hill Library, 3:30 p.m. www.mayaearthcoffee.com • 509-768-3193 While Living with a White Family,” EWU Africana • Junior Lilac Parade, Downtown Spokane, Studies Community Connections Series, South 10:30 a.m., spokanelilacfestival.org Hill Library, 6 p.m. • Family Fun Fair Spokane, Riverfront Park, 9 Partnering May 2, 16 • Peace & Justice Action Committee, 35 W. a.m. to 4 p.m., and River Park Square Mall, 10 Main, 5:30 p.m., 838-7870 a.m. to 4 p.m., thefamilyguide.org, 928-9664 for • Spokane Dances of Universal Peace, Unity • “Aretha Franklin: Amazing Grace,” The Black Progress Spiritual Center, 2900 S. Bernard, 6:30 p.m., Lens Movie Screening/Benefit, Magic Lantern Civic Theatre 534-4650, [email protected] Theatre, 25 W. Main, 6 to 8:30 p.m., 795-1964 Benefit May 2,9,15, 23, 30 • Diverse Voices Writing Group, • Sock Hop for Socks for Transitions, Unitarian Spark Central, 1214 W. Summit, 279-0299 Universalist, 4340 W. Fort Wright Dr., 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 3-5 • Alternatives to Violence Workshop, Spokane May 12 • Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch and June 5 - Friends Church, 1612 W. Dalke, Friday 6 to 9 Fundraiser, IHRC, 6910 S. Ben Burr Rd., 9 a.m. 6:15 p.m. p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 12:30 to to 2 p.m., 448-1224, ihrc.net 6:30 p.m., [email protected], 327-7852 • 2019 Musicfest Northwest Organ Adjudication, Benefit price $35 • Student price $30 May 4 • Japanese Children’s Day Celebration, Shadle Cathedral of St. John, 127 E. 12th Ave., 4 p.m. For tickets call 720-8408 or visit partneringforprogress.org Library, 10:30 a.m. May 13 • Caritas Health and Resource Fair, 1612 • Courageous Conversations: The School to W. Dalke, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 326-2249, Prison Pipeline and Mass Incarceration, Roberta caritasoutreachministries.org Wilburn, Wilburn & Associates, West Central • Understanding Omotenashi: Japanese Community Center, 1603 N. Belt St., 3 p.m. Hospitality, Shadle Library, 6:30 p.m. • Traditional Chinese Folk Dancing, Shadle May 14 • Japanese Cultural Activities, Shadle Library, Library, 3:30 p.m. 10:30 a.m. May 4,5 • Eckart Preu’s Farewell Concert, “Classics • Spokane Symphony Chorale Concert, 10,” with Nebojsa Zikovic, percussionist, Martin Westminster UCC, 411 S. Washington, 4 p.m. Woldson Theater at The Fox, 1001 W. Sprague, May 15 • Spokane Area Jewish Family Services Benefit 624-1000 or TicketsWest.com Luncheon: “A Welcoming Table,” Hemmingson May 5 • Lilac Bloomsday Run, downtown Spokane, 9 Center, 702 E. Desmet, noon to 1:30 p.m. a.m., bloomsdayrun.org May 16 • “The Struggle Is Real: Challenges Faced • “Run for Her Life,” Conscious Connection by African American Athletes,” EWU Africana OPENING DATES Foundations teams raise funds for the Power Series, South Hill Library, 6 p.m. of 5 to educate Nepali girls, 499-3320, • MOWTown Downtown 2019, Barrister Winery, Saturday, May 11 & Wednesday, June 12 consciousconnectionsfoundation.org 1213 W. Railroad Ave., 6:30 to 10 p.m., www. Wednesdays & Saturdays – 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. • Advocacy in Asian-American Pacific Islander mowspokane.org Natural and organic fruit, vegetables, meats, eggs, bread, honey, Communities, Hargreaves 201, EWU Cheney, May 17-19 • Women’s Cancer Survivor Retreat, garlic, flowers, nuts and more from local family farms. noon, 359-7933 Patricia Novak, OSF, Sisters of St. Francis of Food Stamps/EBT, Visa/MC, WIC & Senior • High Tea for Human Rights, Human Rights Philadelphia, IHRC, 6910 S. Ben Burr Rd., 7 Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program Coupons Education Institute Benefit, Hagadone Event p.m. Friday to 1 p.m. Sunday, 241-3180, pnovak. 20 W. 5th Ave. between Division & Brown - Downtown Center, Coeur d’Alene, 1 p.m., hrei.org [email protected] 995-0812 • www.spokanefarmersmarket.org • Organ Academy Student Recital, Central May 18 • Salute to Service Resource Fair, Riverpark Lutheran Church, 512 S. Bernard St., 3 p.m. Square, 1 to 6:30 p.m., thefamilyguide.org • A Chinese-American’s Perspectives on • “The Story of Silk,” Shadle Library, 3:30 p.m. Running Home, South Hill Library, 6:30 p.m. • Annual Hui ‘O Hawai’i Club Luau, location Personal or legal problems? DUI? May 7 • Unity in the Community Committee, TBA, 5:30 p.m., 359-7933, [email protected] In need of alcohol and drug treatment? Emmanuel Family Life Center, 631 S. Richard • Spokane Lilac and Armed Forces Torchlight Allen Ct., 5:30 p.m., nwunity.org Parade, Downtown Spokane, 7:45 p.m., • Census 2020 Workshop, Marandos Bar & spokanelilacfestival.org Restaurant, 11420 E. Sprague, 6 p.m. May 20 • NAACP Spokane General Membership May 7, 14 • SFCC International Film Festival, Garland Meeting, Community Building, 35 W. Main, 7 Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave., 7:15 p.m., p.m., [email protected] May 8 • Day of Reflection, “Miriam of Nazareth: May 21 • Women Helping Women Benefit Luncheon, Homemaker, Disciple, Apostle,” Fr. Mike Spokane Convention Center, 11 a.m. to 1:30 Savelesky, Immaculate Heart Retreat Center p.m., shsfspokane.org (IHRC), 6910 S. Ben Burr, 448-1224 May 22 • “Rise for Justice,” Center for Justice • “Rising Up Strong: A Culture of Love and Fundraiser Breakfast, Gonzaga’s Hemmingson SPARC has highly trained qualified staff to assist you. Belonging,” Peace and Justice Action League of Center, 7:30 to 8:50 a.m., 835-5211, latisha@ Spokane Lunch, Spokane Valley Event Center, cforjustice.org For more information and to schedule an appointment, call: 10514 E. Sprague, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 838-7870 May 23 • Annual KHQ/WorkSource Job Fair, Spokane 624-5228 • “Delano Manongs: Forgotten Heroes of the Convention Center, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. or visit us at 1508 W. 6th Ave. United Farm Workers,” Documentary, Spokane May 31-June1 • Mega Garage Sale,, Southside 8 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. - Monday through Friday Downtown Library, 6 p.m. Community Center, 3151 E. 27th, 535-0803 Confidential, discreet services. Public funding available through May 9 • Understanding the Speech Gap: Saying Hello May 31-June 2 • 35th Annual ArtFest, Coeur d’Alene Park Spokane County Regional Behavioral Health Organization to Ebonics, EWU Africana Series, South Hill in Brown’s Addition, times at northwestmuseum. Library, 6 to 7:30 p.m. org • Coeur d’Alene Dances of Universal Peace, Unity • Weekend Recovery Retreat, “One Day at a Spiritual Center of North Idaho,4465 N 15th St., Time,” Fr. Tom Weston, SJ, IHRC, 6910 S. Ben CdA, 6:30 p.m., 534-4650, [email protected] Burr, 448-1224, ihrc.net May 9, 14, 15 • “The Great Folk Scare: American Folk June 4 • Silent Day of Prayer on Following Jesus, SPR Goes to the Movies! Music Revival,” 9th - Airway Heights Library, “Discipleship in the Bible and in Life,” Fr. C 1213 S. Lundstrom St; 14th - Deer Park Library, Hightower, SJ, IHRC, 448-1224, ihrc.net 208 S. Forest; 15th - Moran Prairie Library, 6004 June 5 • The Fig Tree Mailing and Delivery, St. Mark’s S. Regal, all 6:30 p.m., 893-8250 Lutheran, 24th and Grand, 9:15 a.m., 535-1813 May 9, 23 • Showing Up for Racial Justice, 35 W. Main, June 6 • The Fig Tree Annual Meeting, Emmanuel 5:30 p.m. Family Life Center, 631 S. Richard Allen Ct., May 10 • Catholic Charities Gala, Davenport Grand, 5:30 noon to 3 p.m., 535-1813 Thanks to Yvonne Montoya Zamora for assisting with compiling the calendar.

Protecting the Wild Heart of Spokane

Wednesday, June 12, 7 p.m. , Bing Crosby Theater Join us for a live taping of Movies 101 before the film Tickets at all TicketsWest Outlets Details at SpokanePublicRadio.org For information, maps, nature walks go to DishmanHills.org Event Donors: The Cleaning Authority, Strong Solutions & Vino! A Wine Shop Page 12 - The Fig Tree - May 2019 Hadda Estrada understands experiences of international students By Catherine Ferguson, SNJM like you, but If I spoke like you, I ing for an education and against In February, Hadda Estrada left was like you.” stereotypes. It was a revealing for Abu Dhabi, the United Arab She also quoted Brené Brown, moment for me,” Hadda said. Emirates, Bahrain and Lebanon a professor at the University of Nonetheless, her mother per- to recruit international students Houston Graduate College of suaded her to stay and take advan- for the Community Colleges of Social Work, on the power of tage of the opportunity. Eventu- Spokane (CCS). vulnerability: “Courage gives us ally, she married Jaime Estrada, As dean for global education a voice and compassion gives us also a grad student. After they had and strategic partnerships at the an ear. Without both, there is no their first child, Noah, their first CCS since 2016, she previously empathy, no connection.” priority was raising him. has traveled in China, Mexico, Hadda came to the U.S. to pur- They decided they needed to Colombia, United Arab Emir- sue a master’s degree in business move and decided they wanted ates, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain and at a historic time, arriving in 2001 to go to a mid-sized city with Lebanon to interest students in from the University of Paris-Est good educational opportunities, studying in Spokane. just after 9/11. and access to nature and outdoor Speaking French, Berber, Ara- She came to the University of activities like hiking, biking and bic, Italian, English, Latin and Louisiana Monroe (ULM) be- skiing, a place where they could Spanish fluently eases her com- cause her school had an exchange both pursue their careers. Spokane munication to recruit international program with it. She did not know fit the profile. students. English, so she spent many hours Soon after they moved here So does her own experience at the Biliothèque Georges Pom- in 2010, they had their second coming to the United States as an pidou in Paris, learning English child, Kamil. Before moving, international student. well enough to pass the TOEFL they decided that the person who “Education is the most pow- (Test of English as a Foreign didn’t have a job would stay home erful weapon. You can use it to Language) and GMAT exams, at least a year and learn about the Hadda Estrada often travels to recruit new students to CCS. change the world,” she said. Photo by Catherine Ferguson, SNJM ensuring her acceptance at ULM. new environment. Jaime secured Motivated by that belief, she Until she arrived, Hadda a job in blood banking, so Hadda enjoys not only recruiting inter- “I see you. I hear you. I under- I wasn’t aware that I hadn’t been didn’t realize how many varia- set about learning about Spokane national students and supporting stand you. Here is a welcoming speaking French.” tions English had. In her first and its people. them while they are here, but space. You don’t have to change,” Growing up in such diver- days in Louisiana, she discov- After a year, Hadda began also helping the community col- she said. sity—multiple cultures, multiple ered people in Louisiana spoke working as a completion coach leges integrate the global into their How did Hadda gain these languages—Hadda sometimes a completely different English. and teaching communication planning. skills and this wisdom? experienced the trauma of not After consulting with her advisor, studies at Spokane Falls Com- She is also on the Mayor’s Each step in her journey seemed knowing where she fit in society, she took six months off to learn munity College. Advisory Committee for Multi- to develop a set of skills leading where she belonged. Louisiana English and connect In her class on intercultural cultural Affairs. her to Spokane and her present When she was young, Hadda with the people. communications, U.S. students “The campus and the Spo- position. shared her feelings about this with After completing her degree, a came to realize they, too, had a kane community have worked Hadda comes from a family of her mother who told her, “With master’s in mass communication, culture. At first, they had dif- together to make Spokane ‘the immigrants. Her father lived in the languages and a pen, you will she sold her car, turned in her keys ficulty responding to questions city of choice’ for international Middle Atlas Region of Morocco, conquer the world.” and prepared to return home. about elements of the U.S. culture: students,” Hadda said. speaking Berber, a language that She said South African come- However, because of her suc- What are typical foods? When Much of what she does in didn’t gain official status until dian Trevor Noah expressed the cess in her studies and as a gradu- someone is invited to a party at 8 her present position arose out of 2011. From him, she learned a same idea: ate assistant, the university called p.m., when should they arrive to a previous position at Spokane Muslim world view and to speak “Language brings with it an to offer her a job and to sponsor be “on time”? To what does the Falls Community College, where Berber and Arabic. identity and a culture, or at least her to stay in the U.S. U.S. culture give more value: the she helped to start its Gateway to Her mother’s family emigrated the perception of it. A shared Just after 9/11, she saw fights family someone comes from or College program. from Italy to North Africa after language says, ‘We’re the same.’ in the cafeteria between interna- their accomplishments? “At first, we had no structure. World War II. From her, she A language barrier says, ‘We’re tional students and U.S. students “What does the fish know of We strived to build on diversity learned a Christian world view different.’ My color didn’t change, over their world views. She felt water in which it swims in all its and enhance equity among stu- and Italian. but I could change your percep- ULM was not prepared to support life?” Hadda quoted to explain the dents. In the program, students Her parents met in the Middle tion of my color. If you spoke diverse students. lack of awareness. earned their high school diplomas Atlas region, but because of con- Zulu, I replied in Zulu. If you “I was grateful for the experi- For information, call 724-1645 and college credits at the same flict left Morocco in the 1970s spoke to me in Tswana, I replied ence but soon realized that no or email hadda.estrada@ccs. time,” she said. “We worked with for France and started over from in Tswana. Maybe I didn’t look matter where I was, I was compet- spokane.edu. students between the ages of 16 scratch. and 20 who had left high school or Hadda was born and grew up in were struggling to finish school.” Paris. Even as a child, she spoke Hadda affirms that helping several languages, one of them students on the margins learn Berber. We’re with you every to succeed depends more than “If you talk to people in a anything on a human connection. language they understand, that She needs to understand the goes to the head. If you talk in students’ living situations to know their language, that goes to the step of the way. how to support them and encour- heart,” she quotes a proverb from age them to pursue their college Nelson Mandela to explain how education. her language competency gave In the process, she learned she her the compassion that makes has a gift in communicating with her effective. students who felt they didn’t have “In our household, we spoke a chance. She taught them to de- easily in multiple languages, velop persistence and resilience moving from one to the other. So to figure things out and to believe when I went to school, I some- things would get better. times didn’t even know what “I lived similar experiences language I was speaking. I just and could draw parallels on what spoke the way we did at home. it meant not to belong in certain When someone said they didn’t spaces,” she said. “Students con- understand what I had just said, nected with me and believed if I made it so could they.” At both Spokane Falls Com- munity College with students on the margin and with international students, Hadda delivers a similar message to students: 125 S. Arthur Spokane, WA 99202 (509) 535-0229 MEGA (800) 753-0229 GARAGE • Paper by the ream SALE • Largest selection of colors, Fri.Fri. May May 31 31 & & Sat. Sat. 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