DNC Visits ‘Little Palestine’ Amid Gaza Death Toll Exceeding 40,000

In Chicago, Vice President Kamala Harris’ rapid campaign for the presidency has captured national attention. However, for Deanna Othman and other members of the country’s largest Palestinian community, the excitement is tempered by harsh realities. With officials like Harris and President Joe Biden arriving for the Democratic National Convention (DNC), many Palestinian Americans remain skeptical about the potential for genuine action regarding their most urgent priority: a ceasefire in Gaza.

Othman views the DNC’s Chicago location as a unique opportunity. “This feels like the culmination of so many of our protests for the past many months, as we’ll have the attention of essentially the world,” said Othman from Oak Lawn, Illinois. “This is really the chance for those of us raising awareness about the genocide to ensure people understand what is happening.”

The decision to hold the DNC in Chicago was taken prior to the tragic events of October 7, when Hamas attacked Israel, leading to the loss of over 1,200 lives and igniting a severe military response in Gaza. Since this time, the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 40,000, transforming Chicago into a central hub for anti-war protests as the DNC approaches.

Anti-war activism in the region has surged following this conflict, with events that have garnered attention, including caravans of pro-Palestinian truckers in the suburbs and demonstrations at prestigious universities. The majority of these activities have been largely organized by the Palestinian American community.

Besides advocating for an end to the fighting, many Palestinian residents are increasingly concerned that the Democratic Party’s insufficient opposition to the war is fueling anti-Muslim sentiments that have resulted in tragic crimes. This includes the recent alleged hate crime murder of 6-year-old Wadea Al-Fayoume in neighboring Will County.

Cook County boasts a Palestinian population exceeding 15,000, making it significantly the largest Palestinian community in the United States. This community’s influence is evident, as Chicago became the first major U.S. city to pass a resolution calling for a ceasefire, alongside a notable protest vote against Biden during the Democratic primary.

Abdelnasser Rashid, a State House representative with Palestinian heritage, shares the sentiments of many of his constituents. He interacts with people in Gaza and throughout the nation who are urging Democrats to advocate more forcefully for a ceasefire and to halt the flow of U.S. arms into the region. “Many people feel betrayed by our leadership in Washington, D.C.,” Rashid noted. “The Biden Administration’s response to Israel’s actions has been hurtful.”

For residents of Cook County, the conflict in Gaza resonates deeply. Othman’s family hails from the West Bank, and her husband is from Gaza. The family visited last year and now spends each day filled with uncertainty over the well-being of loved ones there. “It’s been excruciating not knowing what will happen day-to-day, leading to immense emotional and psychological strain,” she explained, mentioning how her children anxiously keep up with news updates.

Local business owner Muhammad Baste, who runs a halal restaurant in Little Palestine, notes that protests have become a common sight in his area. “I don’t think anybody is particularly pleased about the Democratic leaders being in their backyard,” he commented. The conversations among patrons frequently gravitate towards the conflict, especially after tragic events like the recent bombing of a school that resulted in numerous fatalities.

Additionally, there is a sense of guilt among residents who feel fortunate to be safe in the U.S. while worrying about family members enduring the violence of war. “Our families risked their lives for freedom of speech and religion,” expressed Reem Odeh, a local attorney. Her relatives have participated in protests against the war, standing in solidarity with those affected in Gaza.

The palpable pro-Palestinian sentiment in Chicago has led to demonstrations that have shut down major thoroughfares, such as the expressway to O’Hare International Airport. At various universities, student-led protests culminated in significant arrests and conflicts with law enforcement.

Residents aimed to voice their frustrations during the Democratic primary, with approximately 50,000 votes counted as protest votes against Biden, a notable uptick compared to previous election cycles. Many in the community still harbor doubts about how they will cast their ballots in the upcoming November elections, feeling exploited by the Democrats while the party maintains its support for Israel amid rising anti-Muslim reactions within the United States.

As the DNC approaches, many are preparing for large protests outside the convention center, voicing their demands for justice and calling for an end to the violence in the Middle East. Organizers expect a significant turnout, showcasing the community’s determination to make their voices heard.

“The DNC being held in Chicago gives us a crucial opportunity to amplify our message,” said Hatem Abudayyeh, a coalition spokesperson. While he emphasized the importance of their protests, he expressed skepticism about any substantive policy changes resulting from the DNC.

Source: USA TODAY