Activists rally against APEC as conference lands in Seattle for first time in 30 years

SEATTLE — Activists demonstrated against the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) as it held its Senior Officials’ meetings late Sunday.

APEC is a trade deal including 14 countries and aims to support businesses operating in the Asia-Pacific region, in part by loosening trade regulations. This is the first meeting to be held in Seattle for 30 years.

Activists marched from Cal Anderson Park to the Seattle Convention Center and delivered more than 10,000 signatures calling for increased transparency in the ongoing Indo-Pacific Economic Framework trade negotiations.

Carley Brook, a demonstrator with the group, says they have been planning these protests for months, and claims that APEC leaders only care about profit over people.

“No matter where APEC goes from Hawaii to Detroit to Seattle to the Bay Area in November, we will be there to say that the people are fighting back,” said Brook.

The protest remained peaceful throughout the night. Even though the activist made their voices heard, it is currently unclear whether or not the delivered signatures will have any effect on APEC operations.

APEC will continue to meet in Seattle throughout the month of August where future protests may be organized through The Community Alliance for Global Justice.

KIRO 7 did reach out to APEC organizers last week to see if they have any concerns about these protests but have not heard back.

©2023 Cox Media Group