Democracy Blooms in West Seattle Parade

By Christine Mrak

“I want to help claw our country back”, said April Meyers Doyle when asked what brought her to join the Garden of Democracy “human float” comprised of almost 100 members of West Seattle Indivisible and West Seattle Resist.  

Marchers created a festive air to convey a serious message, carrying colorful flower and VOTE signs behind a banner that read, WHEN DEMOCRACY GROWS, WE THRIVE!  This theme was echoed in looping chants interspersed with singing “America The Beautiful” and “This Land is Your Land”.  

Part of the annual SeaFair celebration, the West Seattle Grand Parade route extended from the Admiral to Alaska Junctions and was well-attended by neighbors of all ages who sat or stood along the parade route.  These neighbors enjoyed watching the usual assortment of parade participants:  local businesses, political candidates, charitable organizations, kids’ sport teams, etc.-- when near the end of the parade, the joyful Garden of Democracy appeared. We surprised and delighted many who seemed thankful to have our shared commitment to present challenges acknowledged.  They clapped, waved, yelled and pumped fists in support. Many took pictures of our banner and signs.  One parade watcher, inspired by our contingent, led the crowd in a chant of “Vote! Vote! Vote!”  We took up his chant on repeating intervals for the remainder of the march.