DEARBORN, Mich. – More than 1,200 people packed the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center in Dearborn to denounce Israel and the bombings in Gaza.
The Hamas attack on Israel, which has resulted in the mass mobilization of military reservists, was viewed by those in attendance as not unprovoked.
“We are not going to be intimidated,” said Arab American News Publisher Osama Siblani. “Hamas is not a terrorist organization, and we have to say to them the terrorist is Benjamin Netanyahu and his government.”
Amid the music, cheering, and chants, the crowd and speakers denounced the Israeli government and are furious with politicians from President Joe Biden down to the local level who have publicly said they stand with Israel.
Biden and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, among others, were booed, and empty chairs were on the stage, indicating where they expected them to be.
“They’re not here with us today cause they were busy dancing yesterday,” said Nasser Beydoun. “Before you end the occupation of Palestine, you have to end the occupation in Congress.”
Attendees asked to go out and be vocal about supporting pro-Palestinian organizations and causes and vowing never again to support politicians who will not renounce Israel.
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