QUICK SUMMARY
Organizers of a Christian rally in Cal Anderson Park are suing Seattle, alleging the city and Mayor Bruce Harrell violated their civil rights. The lawsuit stems from the city's denial of a permit for a downtown event, which led to police clashes with counter-protesters during the May 24 rally. The plaintiffs accuse the city of creating a hostile environment and unfairly blaming them for the violence that occurred.
Organizers of a Christian rally in Seattle are suing the city, claiming their civil rights were violated when their permit for a downtown location was denied. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court, alleges that Mayor Bruce Harrell and city officials forced the rally into Cal Anderson Park, an area with a significant LGBTQ population, thus creating a hostile environment. During the May 24 event, police intervened as counter-protesters clashed with rally attendees, leading to arrests but no significant charges. Plaintiffs, including members of West Coast Christian nationalist groups, accuse the city of using subjective standards to deny their original permit application. They describe violent incidents at the rally, including harassment and threats against children present. The lawsuit claims that the mayor unfairly blamed the plaintiffs for the violence instigated by counter-protesters. The legal battle highlights ongoing First Amendment concerns surrounding the handling of religious and LGBTQ events in Seattle. It remains uncertain if future rallies will also lead to litigation.