As a University of Washington student studying Law, Societies, and Justice, I’ve learned how media and law enforcement narratives shape public perceptions of crime, often more than facts. Danny Westneat’s “Call me a nut — and they did — but we should be glad crime is falling” (May 3, Local News) gets it right. Data shows crime in Seattle is down, yet many continue to deny it due to the climate of fear.
I receive UW crime alerts regularly, and so do my parents. These messages often highlight isolated crimes near campus without broader context. For parents especially, many of whom are from suburban areas, this paints a picture of constant danger, which can distort how they view Seattle and UW, reflecting the broader misconception that cities are dangerous. These alerts, while important, contribute to a cycle of fear that echoes the same exaggerations police unions are pushing that make crime seem ever-worsening, even when it’s not.
We need to hold space for real concerns about safety and be honest when progress is made. Fear shouldn’t be a communication strategy, especially when it affects how people live, vote and trust their communities. If crime is down, let’s say so.
Molly Charrier, Seattle