As per reports, a significant public disturbance occurred at Cal Anderson Park in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighbourhood during a scheduled rally by Mayday USA on Sunday (25 May).

• The rally, part of the group’s national tour, was held in an area known for its historical and cultural significance to the LGBTQ+ community.
• Around 1300 hours (local time) approximately 500 counter-protesters gathered waving transgender flags and voicing opposition to the rally’s perceived anti-trans and anti-queer message.
• Tensions escalated quickly into physical altercations between demonstrators and police. Protesters threw water bottles and other objects at officers and attempted to disrupt the event’s stage area.
• Seattle police arrested 23 individuals throughout a five-hour period. Arrests were related to assault and property damage.
• Officers deployed pepper spray to control the crowd. No serious injuries were reported, but the event created significant public safety and logistical challenges. The Seattle Mayor’s office acknowledged the rally’s location as intentionally provocative and stated that anarchist elements contributed to the unrest.