Through the Static

By Hannah Saunders

On the evening of March 20, Snohomish residents received an anonymous text seeking support for blocking the permit for the Snohomish Pride Parade. Since, several neighboring Pride groups and the 44th Legislative District Democrats have spoken out condemning the campaign. Special event permits in Washington can be blocked or denied if it creates unreasonable public safety concerns, but denying a permit simply because it’s a Pride event is unconstitutional. 

“Quick Poll: Do you support vetoing the Snohomish Gay/Trans Pride Parade on First Street this year? Reply Y or N. Reply STOP to opt-out,” the text poll stated. 

The texts came from phone numbers, including (425)384-2388, and Milcreek Pride is encouraging community members to attend the April 7 city council meeting at 6 p.m. at the Snohomish Carnegie Building, with the Out in Snohomish Pride event permit being on the agenda. 

“Since 2023, Snohomish Pride has created an amazing, affirming, and inclusive Pride event that has brought the community together and served as inspiration for other Pride orgs in the area. We also denounce the actions of these anonymous individuals or organizations who are trying to sow the seeds of hate and division,” Millcreek Pride stated. 

This text campaign undermines years of work to turn the town of Snohomish into a welcoming city for all, and undoes some of the healing since “the hateful and terrifying actions held by the Proud Boys when they marched on the town with their guns in 2020,” Hillary Moralez, chair of the 44th LD Dems, said. 

“This text message explicitly creates a sense of false authority by mentioning the veto power of the mayor’s office and falsely implicates the mayor as well and should be seen as the hateful strongman tactic that has no place in a town as welcoming and kind as Snohomish,” Moralez said. 

Moralez stated the mayor and city councilmembers of Snohomish should issue a public statement condemning these actions targeting LGBTQ+ people. Snovalley Pride also spoke out and wrote a letter to the Snohomish mayor and councilmembers, stating Pride events are vital and affirming spaces where community members and families can safely gather, celebrate, and feel a sense of belonging. 

“At a time when Queer and Trans communities across the country are facing increasing attacks on their rights, safety, and dignity, it is more important than ever that cities like Snohomish stand firmly on the side of inclusion and protection,” Greg Jamiel, founder and executive director of Snovalley Pride said. 

Keep uncensored, antifascist news alive. Become a monthly donor now by scrolling below or at Ko-Fi.com/ThroughtheStatic, or Venmo @SaundersHannah