#2,075 - Seattle Shuts Down CHOP's BLM Garden Amid Surging Homelessness, Drug Use, and Vandalism

Seattle's Cal Anderson Park witnessed the removal of the Black Lives Matter Memorial Garden, a controversial space established during the 2020 protests. The garden, initially intended as a tribute to black and indigenous people affected by police violence, faced criticism for its exclusionary stance, allowing only BIPOC community members. Despite claims of feeding hundreds and offering a space for joy and healing, the garden's presence in a public park without proper authorization sparked debates over legality, public health, and community usage. City officials, backed by police and public works, dismantled the garden, citing maintenance, safety, and inclusivity concerns. The move reflects a broader tension in Seattle, balancing social movements with urban order and legal frameworks.