From the Liveblog of
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Pro-Palestinian activists launch sit-in at DNC after being refused speaking slot
Jacob Magid is The Times of Israel's US bureau chief
CHICAGO — Pro-Palestinian activists have launched a sit-in outside the Democratic National Convention after organizers of the confab denied their request to offer a speaking slot to a member of the Palestinian American community.
“Uncommitted” delegates, who led a protest vote movement against Biden in the Democratic primaries over his support for Israel, had specifically been hoping that the DNC would select one of several American doctors who have recently returned from treating wounded Palestinians in war-torn Gaza.
Uncommitted delegate Abbas Alawieh tells reporters he had been in touch with DNC organizers all week and had been hopeful they’d agree to his movement’s request after a similar speaking slot was given to the parents of American-Israeli hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin.
But earlier this evening, the Harris camp informed him that his group’s request had been denied.
Joining the handful of pro-Palestinian activists in the sit-in is Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar.
The group has also been calling for an Israel arms embargo, arguing that it is the surest way to secure a ceasefire in Gaza.
After calling Harris team in front of press, Uncommitted’s Abbas Alawieh says he’ll sit in protest:
“I just intend to stay here until I get a call from the DNC telling me that they won't suppress the voices of Palestinian children, that they will accept our very humble request…” https://t.co/s5MLMzaFak pic.twitter.com/Fz2ZITGvgA— Prem Thakker (@prem_thakker) August 22, 2024
