A religious group is protesting outside Seattle City Hall after a weekend clash at Cal Anderson Park. They believe Mayor Bruce Harrell’s comments show religious bias and are demanding an apology. The conflict began when LGBTQ protesters disrupted a rally organized by the Christian pro-life group Mayday USA. Tensions escalated, leading to police involvement and multiple arrests.
At least six people have been arrested outside City Hall during the ongoing protests. Lead Pastor Russell Johnson, who attended both events, expects a large crowd to join the demonstration. Harrell described Mayday USA as a “right-wing organization” that sought to provoke reactions in an LGBTQ neighborhood. Both Mayday USA and the counter-protesters have criticized the city’s handling of the situation.
The nonprofit Alliance Defending Freedom is considering legal action against the mayor and the city. They argue that the Fourteenth Amendment guarantees people of faith the right to express their views without fear of violence or harassment. The group’s legal action aims to ensure equal protection for religious expression in Seattle.