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‘Uncommitted National Movement’ co-founder speaks out after DNC denies request to address convention

Group is calling for permanent ending to long-term siege on Gaza

Disappointed, but the Uncommitted National Movement is undeterred after organizers of the Democratic National Convention denied the group's request to have Palestinian Americans speak from the main stage. – Disappointed, but the Uncommitted National Movement is undeterred after organizers of the Democratic National Convention denied the group’s request to have Palestinian Americans speak from the main stage.

“Well, our movement has grown, even overnight our movement has grown,” said Layla Elabed, who is the co-founder and co-director of the movement.

The group is calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, arms embargo, and ending the long-term siege on Gaza.

“You cannot win this election without Michigan, and it would be a huge mistake to continue alienating these voters in Michigan,” Elabed said.

The Harris campaign said in a statement: “The Vice President believes making your voice heard and participating in our democracy is fundamental to who we are as Americans. Vice President Kamala Harris supports the deals currently on the table for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and for the release of hostages. She will continue to meet with leaders from Palestinian, Muslim, Israeli, and Jewish communities, as she has throughout her vice presidency.”

The uncommitted movement began in Michigan, a key swing state with the largest percentage of Arab Americans in the country.

“Right now, we are going to continue pushing the Democratic Party, the leaders of the Democratic Party, to reflect the needs and demands of their constituents,” Elabed said.


About the Author

Will Jones rejoined the Local 4 News team in February 2023 as a weekend anchor and reporter. He previously worked as a general assignment reporter for the station from 2012 to 2015.

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