Diversity and Racism in Seattle, Washington

Nestled in the beautiful and picturesque Pacific Northwest, living in Seattle means you are only 20 minutes in any direction from extravagant forests, mountains, coastlines, and other scenic outdoor activities. First inhabited over 15,000 years ago by indigenous tribes of Native Americans, Seattle is an iconic center of culture, enjoying lovely waterways, ocean views, and endless activities. However, be aware that this is one of the most expensive places to live in the entire United States. Housing, education, childcare, among others, are generally higher than the national average. Corporate behemoths like Amazon essentially control the city, to the extent that many of the hip areas formerly dominated by young people and bohemians are slowly (read quickly) being taken over and transformed. Despite the rising costs, the city is absolutely breathtaking, boasting many popular entertainment activities including theaters, festivals, world-class shopping, restaurants, as well as a bustling nightlife. The downside is the exponential growth of income inequality that has become quite visible, especially in the downtown areas. The city is very diverse and has some of the best Indian food on the West Coast of the U.S. The University of Washington is also headquartered here (considered the Ivy League of the West Coast), so there is an abundance of youth as it is a preeminent college town.

If you’re moving to Seattle, you need to know how to adapt. Seattle is a beautiful city surrounded by beautiful Puget Sound where the whale watchers hang. Everybody is “important” and busy. But there are the occasional bon vie bons sitting in one of the cafes with a laptop. The city is divided by diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character. The hilly neighborhoods–all claiming to be the best. Fremont is the artsy-fartsy neighborhood that has a sign that says “Center of the Universe.” Queen Anne is affluent. It sits on a hill overlooking the city, always a little better than hoi-polloi. Then Capitol Hill, the center of the gay world and proud. The tech people who work in places like Microsoft and Amazon, are either making their own craft beer or traveling with two kayaks on the roof of a Subaru. The city is surrounded by the Cascade Mtns., various volcanoes about due to blow any time now. This is the ring of fire. Paradoxically, the city is referred to as ‘the Seattle Freeze’ because the people are known to be cool and aloof. The best way to get to know people, and the city, is to stop into any of a zillion cafes and order an espresso or overpriced cup of coffee. If you want to go incognito, bring your laptop and pretend to be busy.

Seattle is a cultural and technological hub. Companies such as Boeing, Starbucks, and Amazon are centered in the city, giving Seattleites a unique advantage when searching for jobs. Additionally, the northwestern environment is perfect for outdoor exploring. Many locals enjoy hiking, paddle-boarding, rock-climbing, and camping. All are welcome in Seattle. Capital Hill is a cultural hub for members of the LGBTQ+ community, seeking solace or a sense of celebration surrounding their identity. The Pride Parade is an annual event in downtown Seattle, in addition to Black Lives Matter and the Women’s March.