United Methodist conference to move meeting out of Idaho, citing LGBTQ+, immigrant safety concerns

The Oregon-Idaho Conference of the United Methodist Church has decided to relocate next year’s annual conference, citing heightened risks for LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities in Idaho. This decision follows concerns about the state's conservative social climate, which some members felt could jeopardize the safety and well-being of these groups. This move underscores the growing tension between religious gatherings and the sociopolitical environment in certain regions, highlighting the ongoing struggle for inclusivity and safety in religious communities.