Idaho law enforcement, refugee resettlement and faith leaders have scheduled a competing session for Thursday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Capitol entitled, “Meet Your Neighborhood Refugee,” at the same time that two anti-Islamic speakers, Shahram Hadian and Christopher Holton, will be speaking in the Capitol auditorium on refugee resettlement. The newly scheduled event is set for Room EW 42 of the Capitol – the Capitol’s second-largest hearing room, after the Lincoln Auditorium; it’s located at the far east end of the Capitol’s lower level from the auditorium, which is at the west end.

Those scheduled to speak include Boise Police Chief William Bones, who will address the relationship between police and refugees; U.S. Attorney for Idaho Wendy Olson, who will discuss risk assessment procedures for refugees; Jan Reeves, director of the Idaho Office for Refugees; two clergy members, Rabbi Dan Fink and the Rev. Marci Glass, who will offer faith perspectives on welcoming refugees; a representative of the Islamic Center of Boise who will address common misperceptions about Islam and Muslims; and two refugees, one from Afghanistan and one from Syria, who will share their personal stories. The program also will include a question-and-answer session. Like the competing event, it is free and open to the public, and all lawmakers are invited.