In Seattle, Cal Anderson Park is set to become a central hub for a series of “No Kings” protests occurring nationwide this weekend, demonstrating ongoing resistance against the Trump administration. Local gatherings will split between Capitol Hill park, which will host a rally at noon, and the University of Washington, where various groups will also hold demonstrations.
The Seattle Police Department has issued a public bulletin warning businesses and community organizations about the potential for violence or property damage from small unaffiliated groups seeking to disrupt the rally. This cautious approach comes amid a backdrop of heightened tensions following protests against various issues including anti-immigration policies and recent actions against anti-trans rallies.
The rally at Cal Anderson Park, supported by larger coalitions such as Seattle Indivisible and local grassroots groups, is expected to gather a significant number of participants before marching to the Seattle Center. Alongside this, the long-standing Capitol Hill Pride events have joined forces with the Revolutionary Communist Party for additional activities at the university, adapting plans to accommodate graduation festivities.
While previous protests in Seattle this year have been marked by lower conflict and greater frequency, recent developments indicate a shift. Mayor and Seattle Police officials have emphasized the importance of protecting First Amendment rights, with SPD Chief Shon Barnes advocating for a more measured approach to crowd management.
The atmosphere surrounding these demonstrations echoes earlier movements, reminiscent of the Black Lives Matter protests and the creation of the Capitol Hill Occupied Protest zone in 2020. Concerns remain about public safety and the potential for clashes, while community leaders continue to work towards peaceful and meaningful dialogue.
The march is scheduled to begin at 12 PM on Saturday, immediately following the rally, with participants encouraged to report any incidents of property damage or criminal activity promptly.
This weekend offers a significant opportunity for civic engagement and demonstrates a commitment to free speech in the face of national challenges.