Occupants of Seattle’s CHOP Zone Finally Asked to Disperse

Those occupying the “Capitol Hill Organized Protest” zone in Seattle have finally been asked to disperse. City Mayor Jenny Durkan made the announcement yesterday. The area, otherwise known as the CHOP zone, was overtaken by protesters on June 8th. It covers six blocks, including a police precinct which was abandoned by employees for their own safety. Residents in the area have essentially lived police-free for weeks as they barricaded off the streets with their own armed guards. Despite President Trump’s request, the mayor has allowed protesters to remain in the area as they had been largely peaceful. However, following a violent weekend that resulted in the death of a 19-year-old, Durkan has finally decided to take action. She said the recent violence was distracting from protester’s message. She did not mention the time frame in which residents would have to leave, but she did say they would not be pushed out by force. Rather, she is working with the community to come to a peaceful end.