In a surprising turn of events, the Dolls and Gents Drill Team and Drumline has been removed from the annual Seafair Torchlight parade in Seattle, one week after a disturbing incident involving a group of unaffiliated teens carrying guns at the Chinatown-International District parade.

The decision to remove the drill team was made in consultation with the Seattle Police Department (SPD), according to Seafair CEO Eric Corning. While Corning did not specify the exact reasons behind the decision, he emphasized that the priority is public safety.

"It's been a very hard decision to make this week," said Corning. "It comes down to erring on the side of public safety. We're trying to do our very best to make sure this parade is as safe as we can with the information we have."

Seafair released a statement addressing the situation and reassuring that the youth involved in the Dolls and Gents program have done nothing wrong. They explained that the team's removal is purely a protective measure in light of the recent incident, and that the decision was made with the well-being of the team and the community in mind.

The statement also highlighted that until the investigation into the Chinatown incident is complete, it is essential to prioritize caution. Seafair expressed its commitment to ensuring that the team will not be put in harm's way and emphasized the safety of all participants and attendees at their events.

However, drill team parents feel that their children are being treated unfairly by this decision. Zzaj Collins, a parent of four daughters who are members of the team, expressed her concern about not being included in the discussion about potential security issues.

"The problem is when we're not invited to the table to be a part of defining what safety looks like for the community," said Collins. "This was an isolated incident, and you've now punished the victims of this experience."

Makessa Jackson, a co-founder of the Dolls and Gents organization, also expressed disappointment about the team's removal. She stated that the organization has been a cornerstone of the community for nearly 20 years and should have been included in the decision-making process from the start.

"Our primary concern is the safety of our children, so any issues should have been addressed with us on Monday," said Jackson. "We are deeply saddened by the decision Seafair made."

As the investigation into the Chinatown incident continues, the Dolls and Gents Drill Team will not be participating in this year's Seafair Torchlight parade. The community now eagerly awaits their return next year, with hopes for a safe and memorable event.