Over 2,000 Rally in Support of Federal Workers in Downtown Seattle

On Presidents Day, several thousand federal workers, labor organizers, and community allies gathered at the Henry M. Jackson Federal Building in Seattle to demand respect, fair treatment, and recognition for the essential services federal workers provide to the public. The protest, organized by federal employees, including Kathy Bond of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), aimed to highlight the challenges these workers face and to call for greater public and governmental support.

Bond, a career federal worker with experience across multiple agencies, explained the purpose of the rally. "We're out here today to draw attention to what is going on with federal workers, because what's happening to us affects everybody," Bond said. "We are not unproductive, we are not lazy. We do vitally important work for the American public, and we want to make sure people understand the value of what we do."

The federal building was chosen as the location for its symbolic significance. "Many of us work here," Bond said, "and it's a reminder that federal workers aren’t just in D.C.; the majority of the federal workforce is spread across the country."

The event focused not only on raising awareness but also on encouraging action. Bond stressed the importance of engaging with elected officials, even those who generally support federal workers. "We need to thank them, but we also need to ask them to do more," she said. "For example, Sen. [Patty] Murray took stronger actions after a weeklong series of meetings with constituents. Engagement matters."

The rally addressed broader concerns about the erosion of government institutions and the spread of misinformation. Mike and Laurel Stutz, who had painted themselves orange, offered a visual and verbal critique of the current political climate. "This 'orange fever' has infected our country, fueled by a lack of facts and logic," they said. "People are being misled, but the facts don't support what’s happening. We're all in this together. Many on the other side genuinely believe they're doing the right thing, but we urge them to look at what’s actually happening — not just the rhetoric or headlines."

Mike Stutz said there was no logic behind Donald Trump’s and Elon Musk's effort to pull apart the government, but he viewed it as a potential coup."It's heading in that direction, and people need to stop it now," he said. "If we wait six months or a year, it will be too late. We need to stand up and show that we won’t tolerate this."

Laurel Stutz emphasized the importance of community and solidarity. "Come out here and feel the kinship, the spirit, and the joy that’s here," she said. "We’re not here to hate. We’re here to come together as a community, stand up for our country, and support each other."

Federal workers took the stage to share the critical roles they play in serving the public. Bond spoke about her work: "Every day, I defend labor rights. I protect the right to workplace democracy, the right to form a union, and the right to improve working conditions. I will continue to do this work. I do not resign."

An unidentified federal worker with a covered face, who said they worked for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlighted the importance of their role: "I work for the EPA. Every day, I help keep our waters free of contaminants and ensure that fish are safe to eat. This is a vital service we provide to the public, and we will not resign."

Bond emphasized the importance of hope and perseverance. "Hope and joy are part of the resistance," she said. "We need to hold onto those feelings to keep our energy up — to rally, to contact our representatives, and to take action when necessary."

For those unsure how to get involved, Bond offered straightforward advice: "Start by talking to the people around you. You might be surprised who in your community is already part of this movement. Look on social media, see what’s out there. You’re not alone."