SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. – Spokane Valley City Councilwoman Jessica Yeager recently addressed the controversy surrounding a Facebook post where she described herself as a “proud Islamophobe.” The post, which was shared on her personal account and identified by the Spokesman-Review, sparked significant public reaction.
Yeager discussed the situation on the Church & State Podcast with host Caleb Collier. She emphasized that the post was made on her private account and was not connected to her role as a councilwoman.
Yeager says the reporter who wrote the story was a friend on the social media platform, which is why she was able to see it. Yeager stated, “The whole list of things that we don’t like is not inclusive of, but it’s in this post, and it just has this one statement.”
Yeager clarified that her intention was to highlight issues such as violence against women and children, saying, “That could be any religion that does those things, and I would still be the same.” She expressed concern about extremism and its impact on communities, referencing changes she perceives in places like Dearborn, Michigan.
The councilwoman emphasized her commitment to free speech and stated that her post was meant to encourage dialogue on difficult topics. “I still have a right to speak out against the atrocities that humans do to one another,” Yaeger said.
Yeager also addressed the reaction from the community and media. While many people gathered for a protest prior to Tuesday night’s council meeting, Yaeger noted she received support from individuals who appreciated her stance. “I’ve had more love and support from people that I haven’t talked to in 10 years,” she said.
Yeager maintains that her focus remains on serving the Spokane Valley community. She expressed hope for productive discussions and a better understanding among residents.
