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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Racist Groups Feel At Home Here, Letter From Coalition Says

In a recent letter to North Idaho business leader Duane Hagadone, Bill Wassmuth of the Northwest Coalition Against Malicious Harassment urged him not to overlook the reality “that racist and extremist groups/individuals are making this area their home.”

Wassmuth listed 21 examples, including:

The continued activities of the Aryan Nations.

The opening of a Christian Identity bookstore in Hayden that sells racist and anti-government materials.

The recent survivalist expo in Spokane that drew vendors of racist materials and such speakers as nationally known Christian Identity leader Pete Peters.

The outreach of America’s Promise Ministries in Sandpoint, a Christian Identity church that attracts anti-Semitic and anti-government activists.

America’s Promise minister Dave Barley’s leadership role in the Idaho Citizens Awareness Network, a Christian Patriot organization in Sandpoint that promotes an anti-government agenda.

A North Idaho militia that trains with live ammunition in preparation for the overthrow of the government.

The activities of the Militia of Montana based out of nearby Noxon, Mont. MOM leader John Trochmann’s Christian Identity beliefs and ties with the Aryan Nations provide a clear example of the link between white supremacy and the militia movement, Wassmuth says.

, DataTimes