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Free speech belongs to everyone

Bonners Ferry Herald | UPDATED 1 month, 2 weeks AGO
| April 2, 2026 1:00 AM

How can the Bonner County Republican Party tout freedom of speech, but protest others speaking peacefully at a public assembly, wearing expressive clothing, and displaying their individualism or personal beliefs — whether political, religious, scientific or artistic — claiming they are NOT constitutionally protected under our U.S. First Amendment? This appears to be another double-standard of ignorance: Free speech should only be enjoyed by those with whom we agree.

I have confidence in parents, regardless of their political or religious affiliation, to be able to navigate conversations around gender and sexual identity with their children in alignment with their value systems. That is what the first amendment is all about.

Really, you do not have to attend Pride on the Mountain, Saturday March 21st. Schweitzer and Sandpoint will proudly embrace and welcome our beautifully diverse communities while we celebrate joy.


ARLEEN LOTHIAN

Sandpoint

Acting Chair

Bonner County Democratic Party