In a controversial move that has sparked widespread upset and criticism, the Democratic Party is facing backlash for not allowing a Palestinian person to speak on the main stage of the upcoming Democratic national convention. Congressman Ro Khanna, a progressive California Democrat, expressed his concern, stating that the party is making a "tragic mistake" by perpetuating the erasure of the Palestinian story and voice in 2024.

The uncommitted national movement, which had staged a sit-in outside the convention, had requested a Palestinian speaker but was denied. The rejection led to the disbandment of the group Muslim Women for Harris, who expressed disappointment over the Harris-Walz campaign's refusal of their request.

Congressman Ro Khanna, known for his early support of a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, has been meeting with Arab American and Muslim leaders who are disaffected by the Biden administration's handling of Israel's war. Khanna took to social media to highlight how the Palestinian right to self-determination was erased by the British with the Balfour Declaration.

Abraham Aiyash, the majority leader in the Michigan House of Representatives, also criticized leaders of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) for claiming to want peace in Gaza while actively thwarting Palestinians' ability to speak their truth.

Members of the uncommitted national movement, who won 30 delegates to the Democratic national convention, are now demanding a Palestinian person be given a prominent platform to address their concerns. Meanwhile, the Harris-Walz campaign attracted attention by inviting the family of Israeli hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin to speak at the convention on Wednesday.

Among the potential speakers considered by the DNC is Ruwa Romman, a Palestinian state representative from Georgia. Romman shared a copy of the speech she had prepared for the convention, emphasizing that if an elected official who is Palestinian cannot speak on the main stage, then no one else can.

In her speech excerpt, Romman called for unity and commitment to electing Vice President Kamala Harris and defeating Donald Trump. She highlighted the need for progressive policies such as restoring access to abortions, ensuring a living wage, and demanding an end to reckless wars and a ceasefire in Gaza. Romman's speech emphasized the importance of a Democratic Party that prioritizes funding schools and hospitals over endless conflicts, creating an America that embraces diverse communities.

The decision to deny a main stage spot for a Palestinian speaker has ignited a debate about inclusivity and representation within the Democratic Party. As the convention approaches, the pressure on party leaders to address these concerns and actively engage with the Palestinian narrative continues to mount.