As the Democratic National Convention (DNC) kicked off in Chicago, a panel of pro-Palestinian activists gathered to voice their concerns regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict and their demands for Vice President Kamala Harris.
Taking place at the McCormick Place convention center, just outside the main DNC venue, the forum featured uncommitted Democratic delegates advocating for an immediate ceasefire and a halt to military aid to Israel. The discussion was poignant, with speakers sharing personal stories of loss resulting from the recent violence that erupted after Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and 250 hostages taken.
As reported, Israel’s military operations have led to the deaths of at least 40,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the region’s Health Ministry. Activists called on Harris, who is set to accept the Democratic nomination later this week, to align her policies with the Uncommitted National Movement’s stance against military support for Israel. While Harris has hinted at supporting a ceasefire, she also maintains that Israel has the right to defend itself.
The Biden administration is currently pushing for renewed ceasefire talks, with optimism from a senior official that a deal could be struck soon.
According to former Michigan Representative Andy Levin, who was part of the panel, “We need the vice president to keep pushing the envelope,” urging her to assert a commitment to U.S. and international law without compromising the administration’s stance.
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The Democratic Party is facing internal divisions over the Biden administration’s approach to the conflict. Protests led by the Uncommitted National Movement have echoed demands for policy changes, particularly during the spring primary voting when many opted for “uncommitted” ballots.
On Monday, thousands rallied in Chicago, advocating for an end to U.S. military aid to Israel. June Rose, an uncommitted delegate from Rhode Island, emphasized the need for “meaningful policy change,” arguing that Democrats can’t oppose domestic authoritarianism while supporting overseas violence.
Activist Abbas Alawieh highlighted the urgent need for Harris to differentiate herself from Trump’s policies in the region, noting the risks posed by the former president’s unwavering support for Israel.
During a recent press conference, Trump claimed that a ceasefire would just give Hamas time to regroup, criticizing the Biden administration’s calls for peace.
Harris’s entry into the 2024 presidential race offers an opportunity for reexamining U.S. policy toward Israel. Activists view her participation as a chance to amplify discussions on the matter, as she has met with leaders of the Uncommitted National Movement to hear their demands.
Jamese Zogby, co-founder of the Arab American Institute, remarked that the forum marked a significant step towards addressing the party’s prior handling of the conflict, stating, “This is a historic moment.” He emphasized the need for real policy changes moving forward.
Layla Elabed, leader of the Uncommitted National Movement and sister of Representative Rashida Tlaib, warned that Harris risks losing vital swing states unless she addresses the concerns of voters, particularly in Michigan, a state with a large Arab American and Muslim population affected by U.S. foreign policy.
“The majority of Michigan voters… can’t support Vice President Harris without a policy change,” Elabed concluded.