In a strong message to Vice President Kamala Harris, a group of uncommitted delegates to the Democratic National Convention, along with their allies, have cautioned that her chances of winning the presidential election are still at risk due to her failure to support an arms embargo and immediate cease-fire in Gaza. The delegates also expressed uncertainty about the absence of disruptions inside the convention hall this week.

Led by Layla Elabed, a Palestinian-American from Dearborn, Michigan, the Uncommitted National Movement emerged to urge President Joe Biden's administration to demand a cease-fire in Israel by withholding their votes in the primaries. Despite representing less than 1% of the delegates, the uncommitted delegates and their allies have rallied Harris delegates to declare themselves "cease-fire delegates" and demand their voices be heard during the convention.

As of Monday morning, over 160 Harris delegates have committed to considering themselves "cease-fire delegates." While this commitment does not require a formal vote, it signifies their support for a cease-fire through actions such as signing letters in its favor and wearing pins or slogans advocating for it. The delegates hope to make their voices heard on the convention floor if any protests or chants break out.

The group has achieved some concessions, with the Democratic Party providing a space in McCormick Place for news conferences, testimonials, a vigil, and a panel discussion on Palestinian human rights. The panel, held officially as part of the convention, included notable figures such as U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib's sister Layla Elabed, Dr. Tanya Haj-Hassan, and Hala Hijazi, among others. This marks the first time the Democratic Party has hosted such a panel at an official convention event.

However, despite these developments, a request for a Palestinian-American leader to speak on the convention's main stage has not been granted yet. The delegates remain hopeful and state that a clear cease-fire policy and a halt to arms shipments to Israel are crucial for Harris to secure victory in swing states like Michigan.

Although Harris' polling has been favorable compared to former President Donald Trump's, the uncommitted delegates believe she needs to address the issue of civilian casualties in Gaza more urgently. They argue that a dismissive attitude towards the crisis and the dehumanization of Palestinians must stop immediately.

The delegates emphasized that their support for a cease-fire and arms embargo is not isolated, claiming that the majority of Democrats also support these measures. However, national surveys have shown varied levels of support depending on certain conditions, indicating some divisions within the party.

During the meeting, personal accounts of the devastating impact of the conflict were shared. Dr. Tanya Haj-Hassan recounted her experience treating a severely injured boy who lost his family in a bombing. Emotional moments were also witnessed as members of the panel shared stories of lost relatives and expressed guilt for not advocating more strongly for Palestinian rights in the past.

In response to the concerns raised by the uncommitted delegates, Vice President Harris has engaged with pro-Palestinian organizers ahead of the convention. While holding Harris accountable, the delegates are willing to give her a chance to address the issue and make a difference.

As the convention progresses, the spotlight remains on Harris, who faces mounting pressure to take a clear stance on the Gaza conflict. Whether her response will impact her chances in the election is yet to be seen.

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