Advocates are urging Mayor Katie Wilson to declare a civil emergency, citing the growing number of transgender people and pressure on local services.
SEATTLE — LGBTQ advocates and community members rallied at Seattle City Hall on Saturday to call on Mayor Katie Wilson to declare a civil emergency as more transgender people and families move to the city seeking safety, health care and support.
Dozens of people marched through downtown Seattle, holding signs and chanting in support of more city resources for transgender residents and newcomers fleeing anti-LGBTQ laws and political climates in other states. Seattle police monitored marches and rallies Saturday afternoon. From the KING 5 crew’s perspective, the demonstration remained peaceful.
“We deserve to be here. This is our voice. This is our time,” said Elle Missouri Cree, who moved to Seattle from Arkansas in December 2024.
Seattle LGBTQ Council member Andrew Ashiofu said the call for a state of emergency comes as local organizations work to meet growing needs for housing, health care and community services.
“This letter comes at a time when we need to start protecting ourselves,” Ashio said.
Ashiofu said the committee has seen an increase in transgender people and families moving to Seattle, especially from conservative states.
“Trans people, especially from red states, come to Seattle not only for gender-affirming care but also for safety,” Asif said. “We’re seeing a lot of families come to Seattle to protect their trans children.”
The committee believes a civil emergency declaration will allow the city to more quickly coordinate resources, assess community needs and expedite financing of support services.
While there is no precise local data tracking the number of LGBTQ people arriving in Seattle, organizers pointed to a study by the Movement Progress Project and the University of Chicago that found at least 400,000 transgender and gender non-conforming people have moved to another state since November 2024 due to anti-LGBTQ laws or political conditions.
Kerry noted that she experienced harassment before moving to Seattle.
“I was harassed and intimidated to the point where my physical safety was at risk,” she said.
She said moving to Seattle allowed her to transition openly and feel supported.
“I was finally able to realize my dream of transitioning,” Kerry said. “This is incredible.”
In a letter to the Seattle LGBTQ Commission, Wilson said she agrees with the need for a “coordinated, citywide approach” and plans to create a team this summer to assess community organizations’ service capabilities and available resources.
Ashiofu said Saturday’s rally gave him hope despite the challenges facing the community.
“When I see what’s happening today and the people marching now, it gives me hope,” he said.
