As the 2024 US presidential election draws near, the Arab and Muslim American community in Dearborn, Michigan finds itself grappling with a sense of disappointment and disillusionment towards Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. Dearborn, a vibrant city adjacent to Detroit, boasts the highest concentration of Arab Americans in the United States and serves as a microcosm of the complex political dynamics at play within this diverse demographic.
A Community United in Solidarity
Walking through the streets of Dearborn, one is immediately struck by the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern culture that permeates every aspect of daily life. From the aromatic bakeries and cafes to the ubiquitous “Free Palestine” signs adorning windows and yards, the community’s deep connection to their ancestral homeland is palpable. In the wake of the recent Israel-Gaza war, this solidarity has only intensified, with residents banding together to demand action from their political representatives.
The Uncommitted Vote
In a remarkable display of political mobilization, over 100,000 Arab and Muslim Americans cast “uncommitted” votes in the Michigan presidential primary, sending a clear message to the Democratic Party that their support could not be taken for granted. The movement, which spread nationwide, sought to pressure candidates into committing to a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and ending US military aid to Israel. This grassroots effort ultimately contributed to Joe Biden’s decision to step down from the race.
Disillusionment with Kamala Harris
Despite initially campaigning on progressive policies such as Medicare for All and student loan forgiveness, Kamala Harris has since shifted her stance to appeal to more conservative voters. This pivot, coupled with her perceived complacency regarding the situation in Gaza, has left many Arab and Muslim Americans feeling deeply hurt and skeptical about a potential Harris presidency. The absence of Palestinian voices at the Democratic National Convention further compounded this sense of alienation.
I can comfortably say that the majority of Muslims and Arab Americans are sceptical about a Harris presidency. She has deeply hurt our community.
– A Dearborn resident
The Cost of US Foreign Policy
For many in Dearborn, the issue of US support for Israel is not merely a foreign policy concern, but a deeply personal one. Tragically, US weapons and funding have contributed to the loss of loved ones in Gaza, Yemen, and other parts of the Middle East. The community’s frustration is compounded by the fact that the billions of dollars spent on military aid could be better allocated to address pressing domestic issues such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
A Protest Vote
Faced with limited options, some Arab and Muslim Americans are considering casting a “protest vote” for Donald Trump, citing his lack of new military interventions during his previous term. However, this sentiment is far from universal, with many still viewing the former president as a divisive figure who stoked anti-Muslim sentiment through policies like the travel ban. The fact that such a vote is even being contemplated underscores the deep sense of betrayal felt by the community towards the Democratic Party.
Building a Political Home
As the election approaches, organizations like Detroit Action are working to build a long-term, multiracial movement in Michigan that can advance the values and priorities of Arab and Muslim Americans beyond the confines of the two-party system. By elevating the voices of these communities and demanding genuine engagement from political leaders, they hope to create a more inclusive and responsive political landscape.
The 2024 election serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for meaningful representation and allyship for Arab and Muslim Americans. As the nation’s attention turns to Michigan and other key swing states, the choices made by this diverse and politically engaged community could very well determine the outcome of the race and the future direction of US foreign policy in the Middle East.
