“They insist on erasing us”: DNC refuses request for Palestinian speaker | Updates on US Election 2024

Abbas Alawieh, a delegate from the Uncommitted National Movement, staged a sit-in outside the Democratic National Convention in Chicago to protest the party’s refusal to allow a Palestinian American speaker on the main stage. The Democratic National Committee’s decision sparked outrage among progressives and Democratic-allied groups, highlighting the challenges faced by Palestinian rights advocates in challenging the US’s support for Israel. The Uncommitted National Movement, consisting of around 30 delegates, emerged from the protest movement against President Joe Biden’s backing of Israel’s war in Gaza. They are calling for an immediate ceasefire and an arms embargo on Israel. The movement’s presence at the convention has brought attention to the issue of Palestinian human rights, with lawmakers like Rashida Tlaib and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez voicing support for the delegates. However, the Democratic Party’s exclusion of Palestinians from the convention stage has led to criticism and calls for unity among communities to push for social justice. The Chicagoland Palestinian community, one of the largest in the country, was disappointed by the decision and lawmakers like Congressman Jesus “Chuy” Garcia have called for the recognition of Palestinian voices. The protests and discussions at the convention have shed light on the need for meaningful change in US policy towards Israel and Palestine.

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