Mayor Higgins’ comments

In his Nov. 27, 2019, interview with KHQ, Spokane Valley Mayor Rod Higgins purposefully made two false statements or intimations: (1) He linked the non-violent Spokane area Faith Leaders and Leaders of Conscience (FLLC) to Antifa, a political protest movement that uses direct, often militant opposition to extreme right-wing ideology; and (2) he suggested the group is funded by George Soros, a Jewish philanthropist. I find both these statements deeply troubling and here is why you should too:

First, by using this language, Higgins serves people who share a white supremacist ideology. He met with FLLC’s leader, Pastor Gen Heywood, in October 2018 where he learned FLLC’s dedication to being a nonviolent, moral voice for the area. Making false statements to the contrary is unjust and manipulative.

Second, when implying the FLLC is funded by George Soros, Higgins uses an anti-Semitic, racist rant popular with white supremacists. It is a dog whistle to those who know what to listen for, pushing conspiracy theories, radicalizing and promoting the xenophobia of far-right activists and their political allies.

Finally, Higgins’ words speak to a particular group in our region. By using them, Higgins is not acting for the good of all the citizens he was elected to represent. Valley citizens - pay attention! Our leaders need to use their elected offices to promote prosperity, peace and unity, not divisiveness and allegations. Higgins and those to whom he spoke are promoting fear that leads to actual violence, endangering our community.

Mary May

Spokane Valley