June 2, 2025
Seattle mayor blames Christians for violent attack after public worship
Persecution.org president demands apology and accountability for assault on constitutional rights
WASHINGTON — International Christian Concern (ICC) (persecution.org), a global authority on religious freedom, condemns the violent attack on a peaceful Christian prayer rally at Seattle’s Cal Anderson Park on May 24, 2025, and denounces Mayor Bruce Harrell’s unconscionable decision to blame the victims. Organized by Mayday USA to promote faith and family values, the rally was disrupted by counter-protesters, including Antifa and LGBTQ+ activists, who threw objects, assaulted police, and threatened a 17-year-old attendee with a knife, leading to 23 arrests. Yet, Mayor Harrell labeled the Christian event a “far-right rally” that provoked the violence, disregarding evidence that the city’s Parks and Recreation Department assigned the location after rejecting the group’s initial request. This baseless scapegoating is a direct assault on the First Amendment and a betrayal of America’s commitment to religious liberty.
For more than two decades, ICC has fought for persecuted Christians under regimes like the Taliban, where believers face violence for their faith. A U.S. mayor excusing mob violence against worshippers — while slandering them as provocateurs — sets a dangerous precedent that undermines constitutional protections. The First Amendment guarantees the right to free exercise of religion and peaceful assembly, yet Harrell’s remarks endorse a culture where victims are blamed for exercising these rights. Reports confirm that no Mayday USA members were arrested, and their event was peaceful until attacked, yet Harrell’s narrative shields perpetrators and vilifies the faithful. The FBI’s investigation into “targeted violence against religious groups,” announced by Deputy Director Dan Bongino, highlights the severity of this injustice, yet Harrell dismisses it as “politically charged,” evading accountability. His 1996 arrest for weapons and assault recently resurfaced, further questioning his leadership in this crisis.
ICC stands with Pastors Ross Johnston and Russell Johnson, who demand an apology or Harrell’s resignation. This incident reflects a broader pattern of hostility toward Christians in public spaces, echoing persecution seen globally. The White House Faith Office, led by Pastor Paula White-Cain, has condemned the disruption, affirming that public officials must protect all citizens’ rights. ICC demands Harrell retract his statement, apologize to Seattle’s Christian community, and implement measures to ensure safe religious gatherings. Failure to act undermines the constitutional principles that define America.
“I am appalled that Mayor Harrell would blame Christians for being violently attacked for public worship. Unfortunately, it’s reminiscent of police in years past blaming women for rape,” said Jeff King, president of ICC. “This is a grotesque betrayal of religious freedom. Harrell needs to pick up the Constitution and Bill of Rights to refamiliarize himself with the protections handed down by the founders. Seattle’s failure to defend these worshippers mirrors the persecution we fight worldwide, and we demand an apology and immediate action to uphold First Amendment rights.
“I think it would be helpful for all interested parties to contact Mayor Harrell’s office at (206) 684-4000 to politely but firmly express their opinion and demand an apology to Seattle’s Christians.”
Jeff King has served as International Christian Concern (ICC) (persecution.org) president since 2003 and is one of the world’s top experts on religious persecution. He has advocated for the persecuted everywhere, testifying before the U.S. Congress on religious freedom. He has been interviewed by leading media outlets such as the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, and The Washington Times. Jeff is also the host of “Faith Under Fire,” a podcast dedicated to sharing stories of the persecuted church from around the world. “Faith Under Fire” is available on LifeAudio, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever podcasts are available. Jeff King is available as a guest speaker. To learn more, go to Christian Persecution and Spiritual Growth Speaker | Jeff King Blog.
Since 1995, ICC has served the global persecuted church through a three-pronged approach of assistance, advocacy, and awareness. ICC exists to bandage the wounds of persecuted Christians and to build the church in the toughest parts of the world. Visit the International Christian Concern media page here.
Jeff King is the author of three books: “The Whisper” (2024), “Last Words of the Martyrs” (2023), and “Islam Uncensored” (2011). Jeff is available to speak at churches and events. For speaking, contact Jaela Bernard: jaelabernard@gmail.com.
###
To interview Jeff King, contact Media@HamiltonStrategies.com, Beth Bogucki, 610.584.1096, ext. 105, Dawn Foglein, ext. 100, or Richard Jefferson, rjefferson@hamiltonstrategies.com.
