Arab American leaders in Dearborn, Michigan, met with Rep. Ro Khanna to discuss the impact of the war in Gaza and to criticize President Joe Biden’s response to the growing number of Palestinians killed in the Israeli offensive. The leaders expressed disappointment with Biden’s stance and called for a ceasefire in Gaza, which both the White House and Israel oppose. Despite Biden’s expected victory in the Democratic primary, Michigan’s Arab American community has been pushing for voters to choose “uncommitted” to send a message about Biden’s handling of the war.
Khanna, who organized the meeting independently and has also called for a ceasefire, believes that Biden’s campaign is in trouble in a battleground state like Michigan and that a change in course is needed quickly. Biden has supported Israel since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas militants, pushing for additional funding for weapons and aid for Israel’s offensive. However, there has been public disagreement between the White House and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on issues such as a two-state solution and the number of civilian casualties in Gaza.
Michigan Arab American leaders are advocating for policy changes beyond just a ceasefire, including humanitarian aid and the rebuilding of Gaza. They also emphasize the importance of resuming funding for the UN agency supporting people in Gaza. The conflict in Gaza has brought unprecedented unity among Arab Americans in Michigan, who have traditionally been divided on various issues. Despite the emotional state of the community, they are focused on achieving policy changes rather than just electoral outcomes.
During his visit to Michigan, Khanna engaged in discussions with various leaders, including former Rep. Andy Levin and Muslim advocacy group Emgage Action. Levin expressed skepticism about Biden’s chances in Michigan without a change in course, while leaders like Assad I. Turfe emphasized the need for humanitarian aid and rebuilding in Gaza. The community’s unity on the Gaza conflict has driven their passion for change and their desire for policy shifts rather than just rhetoric.
Khanna hosted a town hall on the ceasefire with Rep. Debbie Dingell and University of Michigan students, where they discussed the war, Biden’s stance, and voter apathy among young voters. Later, Khanna joined Rep. Rashida Tlaib at an event focused on reducing the political influence of utility companies, where Tlaib highlighted the need for transformative change to come from grassroots movements rather than establishment politics. The Arab American community in Michigan is advocating for policy changes and sending a message to Democrats through their votes in the upcoming primary.
