Burien, Wa – Seattle area mayor Jimmy Matta was assaulted and pushed to the ground for supporting migrants.
Matta, who is Latino, was attending a block party in downtown Burien, a city adjoining Seattle, when an older white man grabbed him by the neck from behind and pushed him to the ground. The incident occurred on Saturday.
The suspect was apparently upset at Burien’s ordinance which prohibits police from collecting a person’s immigration status information or religious affiliation.
The suspect also has been alleged to have taken issue of Matta’s Latin heritage. Matta is the first Latino Mayor in the City of Burien’s 25-year history, a statement said.
“I was physically assaulted, and verbally threatened by a male who was upset because Burien is a Sanctuary City, and I am a latino male Mayor,” said Matta in a Facebook post.
“I will not tolerate being threatened by anyone. You have the right to vote and voice your concerns, however when you put your hands on me. I will press charges on you, and have our legal system take care of you.
“We have no room for hate or violence in our community. I don’t care what color or nationality you come from. When your behavior is violent you need to be prosecuted and locked up!!!!!
“America covers many nationalities, and our flag has been swaying with the wind protected by people from many backgrounds and ethnicities,” said Matta as outraged community groups and other area politicians expressed support for the mayor.
“This land is your land and this land is my land…….” Matta added.
“Immediately following the incident, Mayor Matta reported the assault to Burien police officers who were present at the event. Burien Police have initiated an assault-hate crime investigation. The investigation is ongoing.”
