Today, I attended my first pro-Israel demonstration in Chicago. Having participated in a pro-Palestine march years ago in the same city, I want to share my observation of the atmosphere and messages conveyed.
The pro-Israel demonstration was notably peaceful, with no chants advocating for the harm or destruction of any group, even Hamas. The focus was on a desire to live and the right to exist, followed by music and dance. Speakers expressed deep sorrow and urgency about bringing hostages home, while a small pro-Palestine group was chanting "From the river to the sea." right next to them.
This differed greatly from my experience at the pro-Palestine demonstration, which centered on destroying Israel and Zionism, celebrating martyrdom, and included anti-Jewish rhetoric. You could feel the anger and rage in the air.
I empathize deeply with Palestinian children who wish only for peace. Sadly, their aspirations are overshadowed by the actions of pro-Palestine groups around the world and the violence perpetrated by Hamas.