We believe the media is sensationalizing some of the facts surrounding the  Idaho   situation.   It is MADD’s understanding that fair officials asked Mr. Harn to leave after being contacted by individuals at the fair regarding a disturbance involving MADD volunteers.   After Mr. Harn and Mrs. Harn left the event, the next day fair officials notified MADD and MADD officials asked Mr. Harn not to return to the fair that evening as a volunteer for MADD in order for MADD to investigate these allegations.      

MADD supports the rights of disabled victims/survivors and ensures that everyone has an opportunity to participate and support MADD’s work to eliminate drunk driving and support victims. MADD aims to provide an environment that is inclusive and in the best interest of victims/survivors, his or her family and the public. Our decision to not have Mr. Harn and his wife attend on the following night was based on concern for their safety and, to provide us with an opportunity to look into the matter.

MADD handled the situation in most sensitive way possible, given our longstanding work and commitment to all victims/survivors, by visiting with Mr. Harn about the situation.     We continue to reach out to Mr. and Mrs. Harn and offer our support and services and invitation to key MADD activities in the  Idaho   community.   

MADD supports the rights of disabled victims/survivors and works closely with them daily to share their stories throughout the country about the devastating impact of drunk driving in hopes of preventing one death or injury.    MADD will continue to always put the needs of our victims/survivors and volunteers first and foremost in any setting and believes it is the media that is missing the true story here:   drunk driving is deadly, people are killed and injured and it must be prevented and drunk drivers should be held accountable for their actions.