SCR 135: Denouncing hate groups and racist actions — 2024

Sen. Abby Lee (R-Fruitland) and Rep. Chris Mathias (D-Boise) introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 135 in response to the harassment of the University of Utah women’s basketball team during their visit to Coeur d’Alene for the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. The SCR acknowledges the troubling history of racism in Idaho, and notes the continued existence of hate groups like Aryan Nations. It acknowledges that people of color visiting or living in Idaho may feel unsafe given the state’s past—as well as its present.

The Idaho Conservation League is deeply saddened, frustrated, and angered by these acts of racism and intimidation. It has long been clear that more must be done in Idaho to end hate and discrimination against all Black, Indigenous, and people of color.

In addition to the historical and ongoing racist acts against Black, Indigenous, and people of color, discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation also frequently occurs in Idaho. Therefore, ICL calls on Idaho’s leaders to do more to ensure that all people feel welcome and safe in Idaho.

This must also include efforts to end environmental racism and to ensure that decisions related to Idaho’s environment and natural resources are inclusive, equitable, and just for all.