Jdl Leader To Confront Butler

The leader of the Jewish Defense League arrived in Spokane Wednesday and said he will attempt to persuade the Aryan Nations to cancel a Nazi parade Saturday in Coeur d’Alene.

If the parade isn’t canceled, Irv Rubin of Los Angeles said he will “go eyeball-to-eyeball” with Aryan Nations leader Richard Butler at the parade.

“Benign neglect is not the way to treat a cancer like this,” Rubin said after arriving at Spokane International Airport. “Sometimes you have to use your fist.”

The Jewish Defense League is criticized by mainstream Jewish organizations for promoting confrontations. Leaders of Spokane’s Jewish synagogue say Rubin in no way speaks for them.

Undercover police officers equipped with video cameras were among a crowd of reporters, photographers and travelers who listened to Rubin at the airport.

He immediately went to Coeur d’Alene for a scheduled meeting with Police Chief Dave Scates, who warned Rubin that anyone who attempts to interfere with the marchers will be arrested.

After meeting with the police chief, Rubin drove past the Aryan Nations compound north of Hayden Lake. He then came to Spokane to attempt to recruit supporters in the East Central area. “Go to Coeur d’Alene,” he yelled through a bullhorn. “Stop the Nazis.”

Few people were on the streets to hear him. Those who were politely listened but didn’t seem to care.

Rubin said if he drums up enough backing, he will go to the Aryan compound with his supporters and attempt to persuade the Aryans to stay home.