Seattle Council Member addresses defund police commitments during racial reckoning

The Seattle City Council meeting on April 1, 2025, featured a significant discussion regarding the reversal of the city's previous defund the police policy. The council member, reflecting on the historical context of the defund movement initiated in 2020, emphasized the need to acknowledge the complexities surrounding this issue.

The council member noted that while the defund pledges were made in response to the racial reckoning following George Floyd's murder, the lack of representation on the council at that time—specifically, the absence of Black council members—raised questions about the motivations behind those commitments. The member argued that the approach taken was divisive and did not benefit the communities it aimed to support, stating, "It hurt all communities."

Highlighting the current composition of the council, which now includes three Black members, the speaker expressed a commitment to ensuring safety and protection for all residents of Seattle. They articulated a belief in the necessity of well-resourced and trained first responders, sharing personal experiences that underscored the importance of effective policing.

The discussion also referenced U.S. District Court Judge James Robart's criticism of the defund policy, labeling it a "knee jerk reaction" and emphasizing the need for constructive actions to comply with the consent decree overseeing the Seattle Police Department.

In conclusion, the council member reiterated their stance against defunding the police, asserting that a more effective approach is required to achieve a just and equitable society. The meeting underscored a pivotal shift in the council's perspective on public safety and community support, marking a significant moment in Seattle's ongoing dialogue about policing and community relations.