Idaho Small Business Owners Launch Initiative to Protect Inclusive Cultural Spaces Amid Rising Threats
Latest in Idaho’s history of pro-democracy organizing, now led by communities ensuring cultural spaces and live music venues remain safe and inclusive for all
Boise, ID – In response to increasing threats, harassment, and political violence targeting Idaho’s cultural and community spaces, a group of Idaho small business owners, community leaders and advocates, local artists and cultural organizers unveiled a groundbreaking initiative. Announced at the Treefort Music Fest on Saturday, March 29, this initiative aims to safeguard and expand local cultural spaces and live music venues that prioritize inclusivity, diversity, and safety.
As Idaho communities continue to experience intimidation from bigoted and anti-democracy groups seeking to control public spaces and silence free expression, local business owners and cultural organizers are taking proactive steps to ensure that Idaho remains a place where all people can gather, celebrate, and express themselves without fear.
“Our music venues and cultural spaces are the heart of our communities,” said Eric Gilbert, CEO of Duck Club Entertainment and director of Treefort Music Fest. “This initiative is about ensuring that Idaho remains safe and welcoming for all.”
The initiative will provide resources and support to businesses and organizations including music venues, art galleries, theaters, coffee shops, restaurants, and community centers working together to:
Create and reinforce safe, inclusive gathering places that welcome all people.
Stand united against threats, intimidation, and political violence targeting Idaho communities.
Promote cultural diversity and artistic expression as a form of resistance and empowerment.
As part of this initiative, Western States Center partnered with Idaho leaders to release “Safeguarding Arts & Culture Spaces: A Pro-Democracy Guide for Idaho Venues.” The non-partisan organization has worked for nearly four decades to strengthen inclusive democracy and support communities to counter organized bigotry and anti-democracy activity, and collaborates with artists and musicians through its program Culture Lab to harness their influence as catalysts for social change.
The new tool for businesses, event organizers, and community leaders includes guidance for fostering safer and more inclusive cultural spaces along with practical strategies for preventing harassment, responding to threats, and building resilient community networks. It is available for free access here.
Research underscores the importance of cultural spaces in sustaining an inclusive and democratic society. A recent report demonstrates that citizens' participation in cultural activities positively impacts civic engagement, democracy, and social cohesion, regardless of socio-economic background or education level.
“We believe gathering safely is a pillar of an open and free democracy,” said Andrea Marcoccio, Co-owner of Matchwood Brewing Company. “Our communities thrive when all are welcomed, celebrated, and dignified.”
Amy Herzfeld-Copple, Executive Director of Western States Center, emphasized the importance of this latest move in Idaho’s history of courageous pro-democracy organizing, stating, “Cultural spaces are essential for a thriving democracy. They provide a platform for free expression, creative resistance, and community-building. I applaud the courageous business owners and cultural leaders for standing firm, refusing to let anti-democracy targeting dictate the future of Idaho communities”.
The initiative and “A Pro-Democracy Guide for Idaho Venues” was announced at Treefort Music Fest during a panel discussion “Building Belonging: Organizing Our Communities for Safer Events.”
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About Culture Lab
Culture Lab is a Western States Center program that collaborates with artists and musicians to harness their influence as catalysts for social change, aiming to promote inclusive democracy and counteract anti-democracy movements. Since its inception in 2020, Culture Lab has convened several artist cohorts, encompassing Americana, independent touring musicians, Black rockers, and hip-hop artists. Through these efforts, Culture Lab leverages the power of art and culture to inspire action, foster community engagement, and strengthen democratic values.