Seattle Park Rally Spurs Arrests and Permit Review

A Christian pro-life rally organized by MayDayUSA at Seattle's Cal Anderson Park led to clashes over Memorial Day weekend, resulting in the arrest of 23 counter-protesters, mostly accused of assaulting police officers. Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell condemned the rally as a deliberate provocation targeting the LGBTQ+ neighborhood, while also urging peaceful protest and a review of the city's permitting process. Rally organizers disputed the mayor's narrative, claiming the city denied their initial permit and suggested Cal Anderson Park as an alternative. The incident has prompted legal groups to consider action against Seattle for possible equal protection violations, amid broader debates over religious freedom and public safety. Both rally organizers and counter-protesters have criticized city officials, and additional demonstrations are scheduled at City Hall. The Parks Department and Seattle Police are reviewing their procedures and response to the event.