In Dearborn, Michigan, a small group of “uncommitted” delegates at the Democratic National Convention are garnering attention for their dissatisfaction with President Joe Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war. This movement, which has sparked protests both inside and outside the convention venue, is particularly focused on U.S. support for Israel’s offensive in Gaza and is seeking policy changes such as an arms embargo and a permanent cease-fire. Despite meeting with top Democrats, including Vice President Kamala Harris, the core demands of the activists remain unmet.
While Vice President Harris has expressed support for Biden’s negotiations for a cease-fire, she has rejected calls for an arms embargo on Israel. The “uncommitted” delegates, including Rima Mohammad and Abbas Alawieh, are using the convention as a platform to express their frustrations and concerns with the Democratic leadership. Despite a surge in enthusiasm for Harris’ campaign, concerns about voter apathy in key areas, such as Detroit’s Black population, still linger. Harris and her campaign team have been prioritizing communication with Arab American leaders and activists.
During a recent visit to Michigan, Harris met with Abdullah Hammoud, the mayor of Dearborn, which has a significant Arab American population. While specific details of the meeting were not disclosed, the focus was likely on Harris’s potential policy regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. Campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez also held meetings with Arab American leaders and “uncommitted” delegates to listen to their concerns and engage in dialogue. While they acknowledge the importance of these conversations, community leaders are still waiting for Harris to make public statements addressing their demands.
The “uncommitted” movement, which saw success in Michigan’s primary and other states, has requested speaking slots at the convention and a formal meeting with Harris to discuss updating the Gaza policy. Despite indications that Harris may be open to meeting with the activists, her national security adviser has reaffirmed that she does not support an arms embargo on Israel. Meanwhile, the Trump campaign continues its outreach efforts in the Arab American community, highlighting Biden’s handling of the Gaza situation and promising a voice at the table if Trump wins. However, Trump’s past remarks and policies may limit his appeal to these voters.
Ultimately, as the Democratic National Convention approaches, the “uncommitted” movement’s demands for policy changes on the Israel-Hamas conflict remain unmet. While some progress has been made through dialogue with Democratic leaders, including Vice President Harris, the activists are still waiting for concrete actions from the party. As tensions around the Israel-Hamas conflict continue to simmer, the role of Arab American voters and their influence on the Democratic Party’s platform remains a key focus leading up to the convention.
