U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit to Co-Sponsor “United Against Hate” Summit in Moscow

COEUR D’ALENE – U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit, the Latah County Human Rights Task Force, the Nez Perce Tribe, the Moscow Human Rights Commission, DOJ Community Relations Service, and the FBI, are convening a United Against Hate summit on September 16 at The 1912 Center in Moscow.  The event is free and is open to the public.  The registration link can be found here: www.justice.gov/usao-id/united-against-hate-moscow-id.

United Against Hate is an initiative launched by the Department of Justice focused on improving efforts to combat hate crimes and hate incidents through relationship building at the local level.  Through this endeavor, the U.S. Attorney’s Office seeks to create and strengthen trust and partnerships among law enforcement, community leaders, and residents.  Well‑attended summits have already been held in Coeur d’Alene, Caldwell, Boise, Ketchum, Pocatello, and Sandpoint.

“The United Against Hate initiative continues to resonate and be a priority for our office because Idaho continues to grapple with unlawful hate,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit.  “We are committed to empowering Idahoans to recognize and report hate crimes so that we can enforce the law and work toward communities where everyone enjoys the protections of our Constitution without fear of being targeted by bigotry and hate.”

The September 16 event will include remarks from local leaders, presentations from prosecutors about hate crimes laws and reporting mechanisms, and speakers who will share their visions of safety and peace in their community and region.

“It is very exciting for Moscow to host this unique and timely event with such a wide representation of presenters including a panel giving the local perspective on providing a safe and welcoming environment,” said Joann Muneta, Chair of the Latah County Human Rights Task Force

“Our commitment to promoting human rights and combating hate is stronger than ever,” said Erin Agidius, Moscow Human Rights Commission Chair.  “This summit represents an opportunity for us to come together as a community, share our experiences, and build lasting partnerships that stand against hate and bigotry.  We are honored to collaborate with our co-sponsors to advance this vital cause.  It is our collective responsibility to ensure that all members of our community feel safe, valued, and heard.  By coming together, we can foster a culture of respect and understanding, making it clear that hate has no place in Moscow or anywhere else.”

“Hate and bigotry can only flourish if it is ignored or goes unopposed,” said Shannon F. Wheeler, Chairman, Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee.  “Working with and getting to know our neighbors is the most effective way to actively push back on hate and prevent it from gaining a foothold in this region.  The Nez Perce Tribe has called this area home for thousands of years.  As its first inhabitants, we consider these lands sacred and, we are proud to be a partner in the United Against Hate campaign. We will continue to work together with all who are willing to make this region a home for everyone.”  

“I look forward to meeting community members and hearing different perspectives on how we can work together to unite our community in standing up to hate,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit.  “And I am deeply honored to partner with our co-sponsors to prioritize this critical mission.”

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