Kamala Harris confronted an anti-Israel protester who interrupted her speech at a Detroit Democratic fundraiser. A video of the incident is being shared widely on social media.
In a 20-second video shared on social media, Vice-President Harris is seen starting her speech by addressing the war in Gaza during the Michigan Democratic Party Legacy Dinner, likely aiming to ease any tension. She delivered the speech on Saturday (June 8) night.
However, this had the opposite effect, as multiple audience members began shouting, with one woman repeatedly yelling, “It’s genocide!”
In response, Harris paused her speech to address the woman protester directly.
“For the past eight months, President Biden and I have been working every day to bring this conflict — I’m speaking right now. I value and respect your voice, but I’m speaking right now,” she said.
Security then escorted the woman out of the event.
Despite the disruption, Kamala Harris acknowledged the protester’s message.
“It’s time for this war to end,” Harris said.
Her words seemed to calm the audience, allowing her to continue her speech without further interruptions, according to the New York Post.
The disruption during the US Vice-President’s speech highlighted the significant Arab-American population in Michigan, particularly around Detroit.
Over 300,000 residents of Arab descent, including many with ties to Gaza, live in the state. For these citizens, the conflict is deeply personal, affecting their families and friends, reported the New York Post.