Dearborn, Michigan – In Dearborn, a city recognized as the hub of Arab America, a profound sense of grief and frustration permeates the community, particularly among Arab Americans. As the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Lebanon escalates, individuals like Layla Elabed articulate the emotional turmoil experienced: “We’re grieving. We’re frustrated. We’re angry. We’re heartbroken. We feel betrayed.” These sentiments resonate widely, especially as Arab American voters face the upcoming presidential election, compelled to choose candidates amid continued violence.
Elabed, a leader in the Uncommitted Movement, seeks to galvanize support for a shift in U.S. foreign policy concerning the Middle East, urging President Biden and Vice President Harris to reconsider their steadfast support for Israel. Harris has affirmed her commitment to continue providing military assistance to Israel, while her opponent, Donald Trump, has historically maintained strong pro-Israel positions, though he occasionally claims a desire for peace in the region.
In a display of cultural identity, Elabed dons a scarf adorned with Palestinian embroidery, a symbol of her heritage, as she prepares to leave the presidential ballot blank. This decision underscores her belief that neither candidate has proposed a clear policy to cease the violence that has claimed thousands of lives.
Opinions among Arab American voters diverge regarding this electoral dilemma. While some rally behind Harris, framing her as a preferable choice to Trump in terms of broader domestic and foreign policy, others view Trump’s unpredictability as an opportunity to distance themselves from the Democratic Party, advocating for candidates like Green Party’s Jill Stein.
Alissa Hakim, a Lebanese American recent graduate, expresses disillusionment with the voting process, sharing their experience of voting for Biden in 2020 under the impression that he would be the better option. In light of ongoing conflicts, she criticizes the “lesser of two evils” narrative, asserting the importance of respecting oneself beyond mere electoral choices.
As Election Day approaches, interest in the presidential race appears muted in Dearborn, where support for local candidates and cultural pride overshadow the national contenders. Campaigns from both major parties are attempting to engage this critical demographic, yet frustrations regarding foreign policy and perceived negligence from Harris have diminished enthusiasm.
Amidst this backdrop, Ali Dagher, a Democratic activist, notes the palpable sorrow within the community regarding the violence in the Middle East and emphasizes the urgency for Arab Americans to leverage their political influence. Despite the apparent disconnect, he believes that engagement in the electoral process is vital for advocating for change.
As the community grapples with the implications of the upcoming election, concerns extend far beyond mere political allegiance; they encompass a profound collective trauma tied to the conflicts impacting their homeland and families. Many voters express their desire to bring attention to the plight of Palestinians during political discussions, underscoring the deep emotional stakes involved in their electoral decisions.
In sum, the Arab American community in Michigan stands at a complex intersection of grief and political agency, navigating the challenges posed by national candidates while maintaining a strong commitment to social justice and cultural heritage. The upcoming election presents an opportunity for this vibrant community to voice their concerns and advocate for meaningful change on a national scale.
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