This past Monday, thousands of individuals from 270 different organizations rallied in Chicago, coinciding with this year’s Democratic National Convention. Their demonstrations, which began over the weekend in support of Palestinians, are set to persist throughout the week. This is a positive development.

Pro-Palestinian activists are making their voices heard and fostering critical discussions within the Democratic Party. They urge us to reflect on the plight of those suffering from casualties inflicted by weapons manufactured in the U.S.

Ideally, these protests should occur without any associations to the tumultuous events of 1968’s DNC. The way the party addresses these matters could influence how the enthusiasm generated by Vice President Kamala Harris unfolds in the future.

Conversely, the right appears to be anticipating disorder that may never come. It is hoped that the week unfolds without incident.

Understanding the DNC protests in relation to Gaza

These gatherings transcend the simple aim of disrupting the DNC. Similar to the demonstrations that occurred on college campuses earlier this year, the current rally seeks to highlight the ongoing devastation and violence occurring in the occupied territories of Israel and America’s involvement in this issue.

Since the fighting erupted on October 7 in the Israel-Hamas conflict, over 40,000 Palestinians have lost their lives. The United Nations reports that 63% of buildings in Gaza are either destroyed or damaged.

In spite of this heartbreaking situation, the U.S. continues its military support for Israel. Recently, Secretary of State Antony Blinken authorized the sale of military equipment worth over $20 billion to Israel.

Hamas, on the other hand, dismissed a U.S. proposal for a cease-fire on Sunday. Blinken met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday to discuss a new proposal that he described as “perhaps the best and final opportunity to negotiate for the return of hostages, achieve a cease-fire, and set everyone on a path towards sustainable peace and security.”

The underlying American policy in the region has remained largely unchanged, which is why these protests are occurring.

Accusing these demonstrators of showing chaos within the Democratic Party would be misleading for Republicans. They signify a range of opinions but, most importantly, they advocate for those who are suffering.

These protesters don’t seek Donald Trump’s return or Republican governance.

DNC Delegates Who Remain Undecided

The demonstrations are expected to continue throughout the week. Besides calling for an end to American support for Israel, protesters are advocating for LGBTQ rights, the right to abortion, and the right to unionize.

Gaza’s situation is also impacting the convention and discussions taking place: approximately 30 uncommitted delegates are present at the DNC out of 4,995 delegates in total, a result of a nationwide call for a protest vote during the primary elections.

These uncommitted delegates don’t represent the entire party, but they do reflect Democratic voters who oppose Israel’s military actions and the thousands who voted to express this view.

Their actions aim to spur dialogue concerning the Democratic identity and values. Personally, I believe this is beneficial. It’s important for all of us to confront the realities unfolding in Gaza, enabling us to advocate more effectively for a cease-fire agreement.

Republicans’ Reaction to Chicago and the DNC

In the meantime, Republicans are attempting to incite anxiety regarding the planned protests.

Trump made remarks on Truth Social, stating: “Radical Left protesters in Chicago are targeting the Democratic Party because they realize it’s weak and on the verge of becoming a fully socialist party, or potentially, with a bit of luck, even the Communist Party of the United States.”

This was after similar messages were circulated by his campaign.

“Harris and Walz are in Chicago for the DNC, which is already appearing to be a repeat of the Summer of Love as the left faction of their party spirals into chaos,” complained Jake Schneider, the rapid response director for the RNC, in an email to the press on Monday morning.

However, I don’t believe that’s the reality. Protests, which are protected by the First Amendment, allow people to express their opinions. The vast majority of these protesters, along with their supporters, intend to vote for a Democratic president in the upcoming election. I hope these protests remain peaceful and are not exacerbated by law enforcement or divisive political rhetoric.

Democrats, focus on the voices of the protesters, not the Republicans.


Stay updated with YSL News elections columnist Sara Pequeño on X, previously known as Twitter, @sara__pequeno