From Chicago With Joy

Democrats Leave Chicago With Jubilation

Balloons fall at the finale of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, on August 23, 2024.Bernadette Tuazon/CNN

There was every reason to believe then Democrats would conclude their convention with rancor. A candidate switch, Protests in the streets and a number of uncommitted delegates.

GAZA PROTESTS — Major Incidents Averted

There was no repeat of the famous 1968 Chicago DNC with massive riots, blood, and arrests. But the pro-Palestinian protesters (some delegates) were present but latgely well behaved. In part because they did not want to be compared to the protesters in 1968, still they were vocal about their support of the Palestinians who have suffered over 40,000 deaths, destruction of their homes and infrastructure, amid growing food insecurity and starvation. They wanted a platform — a speaking gig at the convention, but the party did not afford them such.

Many uncommitted delegates looked for any news crew to get their message out. But on the final day of the convention Kamala Harris made a very conselatory statement in here speech, called for the Palestinian people to be able to “realize their right to dignity, security, freedom and self-determination” while reiterating her support for a ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas.