Democrats Rally in Chicago, Protestors Gather Over Gaza

Democrats are convening in Chicago for their national convention, eager to unite behind Kamala Harris and Tim Walz as their presidential and vice-presidential nominees. However, the gathering will also be marked by protests against the US’s continued support for Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza.

The Convention Agenda

The Democratic National Convention, held every four years, is a platform for the party to select its presidential and vice-presidential candidates and approve its platform. This year’s convention will take place from August 19th to 22nd in Chicago.

Harris and Walz have already been formally certified as the Democratic nominees through a virtual roll-call vote earlier this month. However, the convention will feature a ceremonial roll-call vote for both candidates.

President Joe Biden, who endorsed Harris after withdrawing his candidacy, is scheduled to deliver the keynote speech on the convention’s opening night. Harris and Walz are also expected to address the gathering, with the vice-presidential nominee speaking on August 21st and the presidential nominee closing the event on August 22nd.

Protests Over Gaza

While Democrats have largely united behind Harris, she faces criticism for not breaking from the Biden administration’s policies on Israel and the ongoing Gaza war. As a result, protests are anticipated throughout the convention, calling for an end to US support for Israel and an unconditional condemnation of its actions in Gaza.

The Coalition to March on the DNC, an alliance of activist groups, has organized marches on August 19th and 22nd. “Biden’s entire administration…has spent the last ten months wholeheartedly supporting the genocide in Gaza with our tax dollars,” the coalition states on its website, urging organizations to join in solidarity with Palestine.

Chicago, home to one of the largest Palestinian American communities in the US, is anticipated to see significant participation in the marches.

Historical Context

Protests at political conventions are not uncommon. In recent history, the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee last month saw demonstrations against Donald Trump and his party’s policies. The most infamous convention protest was at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in 1968, which culminated in violent clashes between protesters and law enforcement.

The upcoming protests at the Democratic National Convention are expected to bring attention to the Palestinian cause and pressure Harris and the Democratic Party to reconsider their stance on Israel and the Gaza war.