Locals react to protests
Response to the protests in Charlottesville, Virginia have rippled across the country.
Idaho Falls, Rexburg and West Yellowstone have all held rallies calling for peace. Some locals have said the events are shocking and scary.
“Well, I thought it was just dreadful,” Dan Frechette, said. “I mean to see that kind of outburst in today’s day and age, for discrimination of any kind, is shocking.”
They are worried about the future of the country.
“I just think it’s reprehensible what’s going on in our country right now,” Judy Johnson said. “We are a totally divided country and it’s very scary to me and my family, my grandchildren. What took place there. You know its just sad, to me it’s sad.”
Some local government officials gave statements on the protests.
Senator Mike Crapo said, “Yesterday’s tragedy in Virginia was the result of domestic terrorism. I condemn and reject the racism and hate perpetuated by white supremacist groups. in the wake of this horrific tragedy, let us gather in solidarity with those who lost loved ones and raw closer the families whose lives have been forever shattered by Saturday’s events. As others and I noted during a recent gathering at the Anne Frank Memorial, Idaho and our nation, are too great for hate.”
Congressman Mike Simpson said, ” Kathy and I send our thoughts and prayers to the victims in Charlottesville. White supremacy and their hateful rhetoric and violence, have no place in this country. Let today unite our nation against this evil rather than allow it to be divided by a petulant minority that does not represent the values of America. We thank the first responders for their commitment to helping those in need and let us use their compassion and selflessness as strength to guide us through yesterday’s ugly events.”
