Seattle (September 9, 2021) – Mayor Jenny A. Durkan issued the following statement in support of President Biden’s new actions to increase vaccinations, protect workers from COVID-19, and curb the spread of the Delta variant:
“I commend President Biden’s new efforts to increase vaccinations and keep our communities safe from the worst effects of the COVID-19 virus. Vaccines are saving lives, so this is a commonsense decision informed by clear science. In Seattle, we have led the way with the lowest cases, hospitalizations, and deaths of every major city, and we have one of the highest vaccinations rates. We are proud to support this work by joining major public sector and private employers across our country in implementing a vaccine requirement, which public health experts agree will keep workers and communities safe, prevent the spread of the Delta variant, and ensure our hospital systems do not become overwhelmed.
“Throughout history, we have required vaccinations to keep our communities safe from dangerous and deadly diseases, and COVID-19 is no exception. As the Delta variant surges through our communities and fills our ICUs with unvaccinated people, we must take bold action. We cannot sit by while more people get sick and die while safe, effective, and free vaccines are available.”