Protesters paused to reconsider opposing Harris at the DNC. They decided on full steam ahead.
When Vice President Kamala Harris was announced as the Democratic candidate for the presidency, there was a brief moment of hesitation among pro-Palestinian activists preparing to protest at the Democratic National Convention (DNC). These activists, representing over 200 groups under the March on the DNC 2024 coalition, paused to reconsider their approach. Some believed Harris might be more sympathetic to their cause, given her forceful call for a ceasefire after meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
But that hesitation quickly evaporated. “We all came to a consensus that it’s not going to make a difference, that [Harris] represents this administration,” said Hatem Abudayyeh, chair of the U.S. Palestinian Community Network. “We’re going to stay full steam ahead.” The group, which had already labeled Harris as “Killer Kamala” even before she was tapped for the presidency, remains committed to pushing for stricter actions against the Israeli government, such as an arms embargo—something Harris has publicly opposed.
Large-Scale Protests Planned
Chicago is set to witness significant demonstrations as the DNC kicks off. The largest protest is expected on Monday, the first day of the convention, where “tens of thousands” are predicted to march just blocks away from the United Center, where Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, will deliver their acceptance speeches. The march, described as “family-friendly,” is organized by a pro-Palestinian coalition that includes a diverse array of groups. Protesters are being bused in from across the Midwest and beyond, ensuring a robust turnout.
The nomination of Harris spurred a brief internal debate within the pro-Palestinian movement about whether their tactics should change. However, despite some perceiving Harris as a “breath of fresh air” due to her early ceasefire call, activists ultimately decided that rhetoric alone wasn’t enough. “Rhetoric and promises are simply not enough,” said Linda Loew, an organizer for Bodies Outside of Unjust Laws, which is organizing a march on Sunday before the convention begins. “We need to see action.”
Harris’ Response Fuels Activist Resolve
Any doubts about confronting Harris vanished after an incident during a Michigan rally on her battleground state tour. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators interrupted her speech, and Harris responded firmly, saying, “Everyone’s voice matters, but I am speaking now. I am speaking now.” This interaction only energized the activists further. “After she yelled at protesters, the blush started to come off the rose,” said Joe Iosbaker, a Chicago protest organizer.
Now, with the convention underway, the activists are prepared to go full throttle. “Don’t fall for the wolf in sheep’s clothing,” cautioned Andy Thayer, a veteran progressive organizer. “Harris has made it clear that she is standing behind Israel 100 percent and is not going to stop the flow of arms to Israel.”
Prepared for Protests Inside and Out
The Harris campaign acknowledges the protests but remains steadfast. “Vice President Harris supports the deals currently on the table for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and for the release of hostages,” campaign spokesperson Lauren Hitt told POLITICO.
Inside the convention, Harris may face disruptions as well. Around 30 delegates, who represent the “uncommitted” vote from the primary, plan to attend as a form of protest against Biden’s policies on Israel. Convention organizers have prepared for these potential disturbances, emphasizing that they expect to manage them while respecting the right to peaceful protest.
Chicago’s police, too, are ready. Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, who oversaw preparations for the 2012 NATO Summit in Chicago, expressed confidence in the city’s ability to handle the protests. “We’ve improved upon some things. We’ve given our people training that they need,” Snelling said.
As the DNC unfolds, both protesters and law enforcement are bracing for what could be a pivotal moment in the pro-Palestinian movement’s push for change within U.S. foreign policy.
