SCOOP: Seattle mayor pledges more security for Jews during High Holidays, discusses Jew-hatred for first time since assuming office

Seattle's mayor Katie Wilson has committed to coordinating with the Seattle Police Department and local Jewish communities to enhance safety during the High Holidays, citing rising antisemitism nationwide.

"Seattle has no place for antisemitism or hatred of any kind," Wilson told JNS.

Wilson acknowledged that "Seattle's Jewish community is acutely aware of a rise in antisemitism and is feeling anxiety and concern," And stated: "I believe every Seattle resident needs to be able to participate fully in civic life without fear, and my office welcomes dialogue with the Jewish community for sharing what they need to improve safety."

This marks the first public comment Wilson has made addressing antisemitism in the city since taking office in January.

Rosh Hashanah begins September 11 at night and lasts two days, while Yom Kippur begins September 20 and lasts one day.

The Seattle Police Department maintains two Jewish community liaisons and a dedicated hate crime detective, and typically increases patrols around synagogues and other Jewish institutions during the High Holidays, Wilson said. "As they do each year around the High Holidays, the Seattle Police Department will work closely with Jewish institutions and community leaders to help ensure people can gather safely," She told JNS.

In December, a video surfaced showing Wilson discussing potentially ending the police department's relationship with Israeli law enforcement partners at an American Muslim Advancement Council event. A spokesman for the mayor, Jonah Spangenthal-Lee, told JNS: "Folks may have misconstrued an international visit 10 or 12 years ago with some sort of ongoing training, which, to my knowledge, does not exist."

Wilson extended holiday greetings to the community, saying "Shanah tovah. May the coming year bring peace and health to you and your loved ones." She also noted that "Seattle's Jewish community is deeply woven into the fabric of our city's history, fighting against housing, job and social discrimination" And has maintained "a long history of civic leadership, community building and public service."