Palestinian Americans in Chicago, particularly in Bridgeview, are grappling with a dilemma in the upcoming presidential election. As the community mobilizes to support Gaza during the ongoing conflict, they are uncertain about who to vote for, with both Republican candidate Donald Trump and Democratic rival Kamala Harris showing unwavering support for Israel. The Palestinian diaspora in the area, which is one of the largest in the US, feels marginalized politically and struggles to find a candidate that aligns with their values.
During the recent Democratic National Convention in Chicago, where Harris accepted the party’s nomination, Palestinian Americans felt excluded and overlooked by the Democratic Party. This exclusion, along with Harris’s support for Israel, added insult to injury for a community that takes pride in its Palestinian identity. Many residents have turned to activism, leading protests and raising awareness about the situation in Gaza, despite feeling marginalized in the political landscape.
Chicago’s Palestinian Americans, who are prominent in their advocacy and activism efforts, face challenges in exerting electoral influence in a solidly Democratic state like Illinois. However, they are determined to stand with their Palestinian brethren and fight for human rights. The community has experienced hate and violence, including a hate crime against a young boy, highlighting the ongoing struggles they face in a city that prides itself on its diversity and liberalism. As the community continues to organize and advocate for Palestinian rights, they hope to build solidarity and push for change in a city that remains politically divided.
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