Seattle Council Member condemns police response during anti-trans protest at Cal Anderson Park

The Seattle City Council meeting on May 27, 2025, addressed significant community concerns following recent events at Cal Anderson Park. The meeting began with a discussion on the city's permitting process and its implications for public safety, particularly in light of a confrontation involving anti-trans extremists during a community event.

Council members expressed their distress over the trauma experienced by the LGBTQIA2 Spirit community due to the presence of hate groups. One council member highlighted their personal experience at the event, noting the emotional and physical impact of the situation, including exposure to pepper spray. This member emphasized the need for a review of the crowd management policy, which had been approved by a 6-3 vote, with dissent from three council members.

The council member reported witnessing troubling conduct and missed opportunities for de-escalation during the event. They pointed out that chemical weapons, while considered less lethal, are still weapons and should be treated with caution. The discussion underscored the importance of ensuring safe spaces for vulnerable populations and the need for effective crowd management strategies.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further evaluate the crowd management policy and to engage with community leaders to prevent future incidents. The council recognized the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQIA2 Spirit community and the necessity of fostering an inclusive environment in Seattle.