An Idaho coffee shop owner ejected a pro-life group from his establishment after learning they were holding a meeting to discuss a prospective ballot measure that would legalize abortion up to 24 weeks in the state. The owner, Jim Sheehan of Wydaho Roasters in Driggs, received death threats following the incident and a viral video of the confrontation.
Sheehan confirmed in a video posted online that he asked the group, led by Kristan Hawkins, president of Students for Life of America, to leave his business. The group had gathered at the café on Monday to discuss their efforts, including recruiting local volunteers and supporting families in need. Sheehan stated in the video that the meeting was not welcome in his establishment, directing them to use the public library instead.
"This is my place of business," Sheehan said in the recording. "I did a lot of work to get people on the ballot so women would have the right to choose in the state of Idaho, and this is something I do not support, nor does my wife, and it's our business. So we have that choice."
When Hawkins asked if the group was being kicked out, Sheehan replied, "Did I make it very clear that I did not want you here?"
Sheehan later added, "It's like, if the KKK asked to meet here, I would say 'no.' In my world, it's the same sort of concept."
Hawkins, who posted the video to social media, alleged that the group had ordered food and drinks before Sheehan approached them. She stated that about 15 people were present, including her 16-year-old son, Bear, a fellow with Students for Life. The group’s meeting was part of their efforts to advocate for the ballot measure, which would expand abortion access in Idaho, where most abortions are currently illegal.
Sheehan confirmed to reporters that he and his wife had received "nonstop death threats" following the video’s circulation. He did not provide further details about the threats but emphasized that his decision was based on his personal and business opposition to the group’s agenda.
Background: Idaho’s Abortion Laws and Ballot Measure
Idaho currently has strict abortion laws, with most procedures banned except in cases of rape, incest, or to save the life of the mother. The proposed ballot measure, if approved, would allow abortions up to 24 weeks of pregnancy. Advocates for the measure argue it would provide necessary healthcare options for women, while opponents, including Sheehan, contend it undermines protections for the unborn.
The ballot measure is part of a broader debate in Idaho over reproductive rights, with both sides mobilizing supporters ahead of potential elections. Hawkins stated that the group’s meeting at Wydaho Roasters was intended to discuss ways to gather signatures for the ballot initiative and offer support to local families.
Reactions and Responses
Sheehan’s decision to eject the group has drawn both support and criticism. Supporters of his actions argue that business owners have the right to set policies for their establishments, while critics contend that his comparison of the group to the Ku Klux Klan was inflammatory and inappropriate. Hawkins has framed the incident as an attempt to silence pro-life advocates, while Sheehan maintains that his actions were a matter of personal and business principle.
No further statements have been issued by Wydaho Roasters or Students for Life of America beyond the initial video and social media posts. The incident remains under public scrutiny as both sides continue to advocate for their positions on abortion access in Idaho.