Tens of thousands of demonstrators filled the streets of American cities on Saturday to protest against Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. The protests, which took place in Washington, New York, Nashville, Cincinnati, Las Vegas, and Orono, demanded a cease-fire and an end to the siege in Gaza. The demonstrators also called for a shutdown of American aid to Israel. The protests included chants and signs expressing solidarity with Gaza and mourning the human toll of the conflict. While some chants have been criticized as antisemitic, protesters argue that they are a cry for freedom.
The demonstrations coincided with rising concern for Palestinian civilians and support for Israel’s military campaign against Hamas, which the United States government considers a terrorist organization. The protests also brought together various groups and causes, including Black activists, student organizations, labor unions, and antiwar and environmental groups.
In Cincinnati, several hundred marchers gathered in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood to show support for Palestine. The event, organized by the Cincinnati Socialists, attracted Muslims, Black activists, college students, and peace advocates. The diverse Muslim population in Cincinnati expressed their united support for Palestinians.