Leaders of the “Uncommitted” movement, a group that garnered many votes in Democratic primaries as a protest against the Israel-Hamas conflict, have been in talks to secure a speaking slot for a Palestinian American at the Democratic National Convention. Negotiations hit a standstill when a Democratic National Committee official firmly denied the request.
Abbas Alawieh, an “Uncommitted” delegate and movement co-founder, expressed shock at the abrupt refusal after what he considered positive discussions. As a response, Alawieh and other delegates staged a sit-in outside Chicago’s United Center, the convention venue, vowing to stay until their demand was met or the convention concluded on Thursday night.
The standoff underscores divisions within the Democratic Party, which has otherwise united behind the Harris campaign. The DNC’s rejection of a Palestinian American speaker, following a feature of Israeli American hostage parents, drew criticism from some party members. The powerful United Autoworkers Union, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris, urged the party to allow a Palestinian American speaker at the DNC.
Despite pressure, the DNC stood firm. Senate’s top Democrat, Chuck Schumer, downplayed the sit-in’s political impact, emphasizing party unity. Tensions over the Gaza conflict spilled outside the convention center, with protests and clashes in Chicago. Democratic leaders like Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison called for a Palestinian American voice at the convention.
Calls to reconsider the request echoed among party members. Representative Ro Khanna stressed the importance of including the Palestinian narrative in the party’s platform. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson supported adding a Palestinian American speaker to address the conflict’s human toll and advocate for peace.
The “Uncommitted” movement presented potential Palestinian American speakers, like Georgia State Rep. Ruwa Romman. Romman released a draft speech calling for electing Harris, ending the conflict, and freeing hostages. Activists were granted space at the convention earlier to discuss Gaza’s plight and share personal stories of loss.
The convention officially nominated Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee, with the majority of delegates supporting her. Those advocating for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict seek to influence the upcoming election. Michigan, a pivotal state with a significant Arab American population, could be crucial in the election outcome.
Democratic leaders engaged with the sit-in, showing solidarity with the “Uncommitted” delegates’ cause. Representative Cori Bush emphasized the importance of listening to dissenting voices within the party, affirming their shared commitment as Democrats.
