CHICAGO — Delegates from the “Uncommitted” movement, which gained significant attention in Democratic primaries due to its stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict, have reported that their request to include a Palestinian American speaker at the Democratic National Convention was denied. The request was formally rejected late Wednesday, leading to a protest outside the convention venue.
Abbas Alawieh, a delegate and co-founder of the “Uncommitted” movement, expressed disappointment over the abrupt denial after what he described as promising discussions. In response, Alawieh and other supporters staged a sit-in outside the United Center, pledging to remain there until their request was addressed or the convention concluded.
This protest has highlighted internal divisions within the Democratic Party, even as the convention has largely focused on rallying support for Vice President Kamala Harris. The party’s refusal to include a Palestinian American speaker, especially after showcasing the parents of an Israeli American hostage earlier, has sparked criticism from progressive circles.
The United Autoworkers Union, which backs Harris’ presidential campaign, has called for the inclusion of a Palestinian American voice, citing the large Palestinian American population in Cook County. Despite these calls, the Democratic leadership has remained steadfast in its position. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer dismissed the potential impact of the protest, emphasizing party unity over a few dissenting voices.
Protests over the Gaza conflict have also intensified outside the convention, with thousands marching in Chicago and smaller groups clashing with police near the Israeli Consulate, resulting in 56 arrests.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, a vocal advocate for Palestinian issues, highlighted the significance of having a Palestinian American speaker, asserting that such representation could amplify calls for peace and hostages’ release. Similarly, California Representative Ro Khanna criticized the party for not representing Palestinian perspectives adequately.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson supported the delegates’ request, underscoring the need for voices advocating for peace and humanitarian considerations in the conflict. Georgia State Representative Ruwa Romman, one of the proposed speakers, had prepared a speech advocating for Harris, a cease-fire, and the release of hostages.
Earlier in the week, the Harris campaign had allowed a forum on Gaza, aimed at addressing concerns about the ongoing conflict. However, the refusal to feature a Palestinian American speaker has intensified calls for the party to reconsider its stance, with Michigan, a key swing state with a large Arab American population, being particularly pivotal in the upcoming election.
Rep. Cori Bush, a progressive voice in Congress, joined the sit-in, emphasizing the importance of being heard within the party. The convention has officially nominated Harris for president, but the dispute over Palestinian representation continues to resonate among party activists and delegates.
