More than 5,000 Seattle middle, high school students walk out to protest Trump; 3 adults arrested



SEATTLE (AP) — A little more than 5,000 students across Seattle walked out of classes Monday to protest President-elect Donald Trump, Seattle Public Schools said.

Hundreds of teens from public and private schools chanted as they marched in downtown Seattle and on the streets of the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Many waved signs that read "Not My President" or "Love Wins." Students chanted "We reject the President-elect," among other statements.

Adults later joined the march, and the Seattle Police Department said that two adult men (not students) were arrested for assaulting officers, and a third man was arrested for assaulting another man.



A spokesman with Seattle Public Schools estimates that a little more than 5,000 of the 53,000 SPS students from 20 middle and high schools participated in the walkout. Luke Duecy says students who walk out of class will get an "unexcused absence."

Some who joined the march said they oppose Trump's divisive rhetoric and wanted to show support for those he targeted during his campaign, such as Muslims or immigrants. Others say they came to support their friends or simply to observe the activities.

High school senior Rose Taylor, who is bisexual, says she worries about what his election will mean for the LGBT community and others.



Seattle's mayor has tweeted his support of middle and high school students who walked out of classes to protest President-elect Donald Trump.

Mayor Ed Murray said Monday afternoon on Twitter that he applauds students for taking a stand for inclusiveness.

Murray added, "It's important their peaceful voices be heard. Let's look out for each other & be safe."