by Hannah Saunders
Twelve different cities and regions are preparing to launch a general strike in the event that the Trump regime steals the midterm elections, and activists are introducing Seattle Strike on Oct. 11 at 3 p.m. at University Friends. Both Washington state officials and community members have been sounding the alarm about voting interference from the federal government, and Seattle activists are ready to hit them where it hurts most— the pocket.
“[Trump’s] a fascist enabled by cowards, billionaires, and a corrupt Supreme Court. No one is coming to save us, so we’ve got to be ready to do it ourselves,” Devin Hermanson, founder of Defund Musk, told TtS.
Hermanson said there’s space for everyone to become involved with the potential general strike, which he described to be Trump’s “worst nightmare.”
“If people can’t strike, there are many other ways to be involved, including protesting, boycotting, and supporting those who are striking and taking on more risk,” he said.
Other topics of discussion will focus on mutual aid, and Hermanson noted how it’s crucial for communities most impacted by the regime to be centered in decision-making processes for the strike.
“We’ve already assembled an amazing coalition and are reaching out further everyday,” Hermanson said.
The event will feature live music by Mike Frazier, and remarks will be provided by Dustin Lambro, the legislative and political director for the UFCW Local 3000. Laura Yurka, a shop steward with Teamsters Local 117, emphasized how everyone needs to come together during this time and offer support.
“Union power relies on collective power and member solidarity,” Yurka said. “There are a lot of ways union members will be able to stand in solidarity with our community if a general strike becomes necessary, even if they can’t go on strike themselves.”
Seattle Strike is made up of members of Seattle Indivisible, Troublemakers, 50501, Seattle Evergreen Resistance, Wallingford Indivisible, Queen Anne Resist, Defund Musk, Communities Rising, Shoreline Indivisible, as well as union members, artists, small business owners, faith leaders, and activists.
Seattle Strike will also recognize the national coalition, USA Strike, which includes the Bay Area, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Dallas Forth Worth, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Houston, the Twin Cities, Atlanta, and Portland.
Those interested in attending the event virtually can register here.
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