What Changed to Allow Arab Americans Entry into US Politics After Previous Exclusion?
TL/DR –
Arab Americans became involved in US politics through organized campaigns such as those of Jesse Jackson in 1984 and 1988, leading to increased voter registration and participation in national and state conventions. However, their involvement was met with resistance from pro-Israel groups, and attempts to exclude them from political participation continued into the 1990s. Despite these obstacles, Arab Americans persevered, and by the time of Bill Clinton’s presidency, they had secured a place in the Democratic party, gaining unprecedented opportunities to participate in policy discussions.
Reflecting on Arab American Political Empowerment
Reflecting on significant events, such as the recent passing of ex-US Senator Joseph Lieberman and the 28th anniversary of ex-US Secretary of Commerce Ronald Brown’s death, provides an opportunity to review Arab American political empowerment.
Arab Americans found political representation in the 1984 and 1988 campaigns of Jesse Jackson, providing an enthusiastic response and demonstrating their organization skills. They registered new voters, elected a record number of delegates to the national convention, and passed Palestinian statehood resolutions in 10 states.
Despite successes, pro-Israel groups increased their resistance to Arab-American involvement. Campaigns, such as those of Walter Mondale in 1984 and Michael Dukakis in 1988, returned Arab American contributions or rejected endorsements.
When Ron Brown became the Democratic Party’s chairman after the 1988 campaign, he pledged to end Arab American exclusion. His first meeting as chair emphasized that Arab Americans had a home in the Democratic Party. This marked a new day for Arab Americans in the party as demonstrated by his speech at an Arab American convention shortly after.
Resistance to Arab American involvement continued. Candidates and officials still faced pressure to exclude Arab Americans. This was especially challenging during the 1992 Democratic convention, with frustrations growing over difficulties working with the Clinton campaign.
When I once expressed my frustration to Jesse Jackson, he advised not to quit but to persevere and fight the resistance, a call to action echoed today by modern Arab American activists challenging the US’s failed policies towards Palestinians.
The work of Arab Americans in US politics has been impactful, with diverse mass mobilizations, calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, demands for an end to US arms for Israel, and a growing shift in public opinion towards a pro-Palestinian stance.
Arab Americans & Opportunities for Change
Change requires hard work and allies, as demonstrated by the Arab American community’s journey to political involvement. Today’s Arab American activists are continuing this legacy, challenging America’s outdated policies and seeking opportunities to effect change. Published: April 09, 2024, 4:00 AM
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