Emgage at the 2024 DNC: Advancing Justice and Representation

By Wa’el Alzayat

August 28th, 2024

Last week, Emgage attended the 2024 Democratic National Convention, where we continued our advocacy for justice and representation. This year’s convention highlighted both the progress we’ve made and the challenges that lie ahead.

It was heartening to see the strong presence of Muslim voices, particularly Black Muslims, at the DNC. Black Muslims have played a pivotal role in shaping Islam in America, and their representation at the convention was a powerful acknowledgment of their contributions to our faith and our nation. This recognition is vital as we continue to push for greater inclusion and understanding of our diverse communities.

Among the notable speakers were California Congressional Candidate Lateefah Simon; New York City Councilman Dr. Yusef Salaam, who shared the stage with fellow Central Park 5 members; Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who delivered a powerful speech on justice and human rights; and esteemed religious leaders Imam Talib Shareef and Imam Muhammad Abdulaleem.

One of the most powerful moments came during a panel on Palestinian human rights, co-chaired by James Zogby, President of the Arab American Institute, and Attorney General Ellison. This was the first DNC panel dedicated to Palestine, which is significant. The session, attended by over 300 participants, featured compelling testimonies, including those of Dr. Tanya Haj-Hassan, a pediatric doctor who has treated patients in Gaza during the violence, and Hala Hijazi, who brought to light the harrowing realities faced by Palestinians. The overwhelming support from attendees, marked by standing ovations and emotional responses, highlighted the growing recognition of Palestinian suffering and the need for continued advocacy.

However, we must also express our deep dismay that the DNC did not include a Palestinian voice on the main stage. In response, Emgage joined the sit-in organized by the Uncommitted National Movement, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to justice and the essential need for Palestinian voices to be heard. While discussions on Palestine were included elsewhere, the lack of a dedicated Palestinian speaker underscores the ongoing struggle for full representation.

Throughout the convention, the solidarity with Palestine was visible and widespread. Delegates, including Vice President Harris’s niece, wore keffiyehs and “Democrats for Palestine” buttons, signaling a broad and growing support for Palestinian rights. This display of solidarity, along with the strong applause whenever Palestine was mentioned, reflects the undeniable momentum our movement has gained.

While we didn’t achieve all our goals, the convention made clear that our collective advocacy is making a significant impact. These moments, though not without setbacks, represent important steps forward in the fight for Palestinian liberation. The ongoing dialogue and the visible support for Palestine are signs of the progress we must continue to build upon.

Our fight against Project 2025—a policy blueprint threatening the rights and freedoms we have long defended—remains a top priority. We must stay vigilant and continue our proactive advocacy to protect the progress we’ve made and advance our community’s interests.

Thank you for standing with us in this journey toward justice and true representation. Together, we will ensure that our voices are heard and that progress continues.