Split over LGBT issues shakes United Methodist churches in Spokane, Coeur d’Alene

The United Methodist Church, the nation’s second-largest Protestant denomination, is poised to formally split after years of infighting over LGBT inclusivity. A 16-member committee of bishops and other church leaders announced Friday they had agreed to spin off a “traditionalist Methodist” denomination that would uphold bans on same-sex marriage and the ordination of LGBT clergy. […]

‘To Thrive, Not Just Survive’: Spokane Pride Parade and Rainbow Festival enjoys record-breaking crowds

Record-breaking crowds flocked to the Spokane Pride Parade and Rainbow Festival in Spokane on Saturday. “I’m hearing estimates of 24,000 people,” said Steven Herevia, Spokane Pride coordinator. “The community spirit here is so alive.” More than 100 groups signed up to be in the parade this year with 1,500 people marching, according to Michael Jepson, […]

50 Years After Stonewall, We’re Still Disagreeing About What Happened There. That’s Why the Archives Matter

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising, a moment of resistance by LGBTQ people against homophobia and transphobia, police harassment and exploitation by organized crime. The conflict started in the wee hours of June 28, 1969, and continued for almost a week. The Stonewall Inn was an illegal club, operating without a liquor license, […]