During a recent Seattle City Council meeting, community members voiced strong concerns regarding the city's approach to addressing homelessness and public safety, particularly in relation to Jose Rizal Park and the broader Filipino community.

Representatives from Malaya Seattle, a grassroots Filipino organization, emphasized that increased police presence does not effectively tackle the issue of homelessness but merely displaces it. They urged the council to prioritize social services over policing in the upcoming budget discussions. One speaker highlighted that funds from the Jump Start payroll tax, intended for affordable housing and community services, have been redirected towards policing, which studies suggest does not enhance community safety.

The speakers called for the restoration of Jose Rizal Park, a site significant to the Filipino community, and stressed the importance of preserving local history while advocating for essential services such as housing, education, and healthcare. They argued that these investments would better serve the community than increased surveillance or law enforcement funding.

Additionally, representatives from the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) highlighted the need for equitable transportation investments, particularly for marginalized groups, including low-income residents and immigrants. They advocated for community-driven decision-making processes that ensure language accessibility and inclusive dialogue.

The meeting underscored a growing demand for a shift in city priorities towards community support and historical preservation, reflecting the voices of over 100,000 Filipinos in Seattle.