Hundreds attend ‘Workers over Billionaires’ protest on Labor Day in Seattle

SEATTLE — While many spent Labor Day enjoying time off, hundreds of people gathered at Seattle Central College on Monday to raise their voices for workers’ rights and social justice as part of a nationwide protest dubbed “Workers over Billionaires.”

The local event was organized by Capitol Hill Pride, a nonprofit group that advocates for diversity and community support. Director Charlette Lefevre said the gathering highlighted solidarity with unions, working families and marginalized groups.

“I can’t think of a better place to be, supporting our laborers, unions, our working families,” LeFevre said.

After rallying on campus, participants marched about half a mile to the Mexican Consulate before returning to the college. Organizers called on government leaders to stop targeting vulnerable communities and to focus resources on strengthening neighborhoods instead of funding wars.

“We get to show the community that may not be able to even come out or are fearful in public, that there are neighbors, there are neighbors and there are friends who want to stand up and support,” said LeFevre.

The demonstration drew support from Washington Attorney General Nick Brown, who told attendees that his office is committed to protecting civil rights, health care and the integrity of transgender communities.

“We’re fighting for things like civil rights, health care, for the sanctity and identity and integrity for people who are transgendered. We are also fighting to protect money that was guaranteed to the state of Washington.”

Since taking office eight months ago, Brown has filed 37 lawsuits against the Trump administration.

From what the KING 5 crew saw, the four-hour demonstration remained peaceful. Organizers emphasized that community action — no matter how small — can create meaningful change.

“The smallest sign and even the smallest individual effort can have a huge impact,” LeFevre said.