Protesters opposing the Israeli government’s actions made their presence known in Chicago ahead of the Democratic National Convention, carrying a banner that read “Killer Kamala” in a clear rebuke of Vice President Kamala Harris.
As the convention approaches, where Harris is expected to formally accept the Democratic nomination to face off against former President Donald Trump, a coalition of anti-Israel activists has vowed to take to the streets in large numbers. According to Hatem Abudayyeh, a spokesperson for the coalition, the group expects “tens of thousands” of people to join the march.
Abudayyeh revealed that nearly 270 organizations from across the United States have joined forces to stage the protest, dubbed “March on the DNC.” The coalition’s demands are clear: an end to US aid to Israel and freedom for Palestine. “We’ll be out on the streets starting tomorrow, August 19 at noon, at Union Park, to say ‘Stop the genocide now,'” Abudayyeh declared.
The protesters plan to rally at Union Park until 2 p.m. before setting off on their march. Abudayyeh emphasized that the coalition will be fighting for their rights and pushing for their demands to be heard.
However, the protest is not just about the Israeli-Palestinian issue. Some protesters are also expressing frustration with the Democratic Party’s perceived failure to deliver on its promises.
One woman vented her anger at the party’s broken promises. “My problem with the Democrats is that they constantly lie to us,” she said. “Why should we bother voting for them? They’re not doing anything for us. I’m fed up with their lies.”
