Rep. Rashida Tlaib, a Democratic representative from Michigan, has faced criticism for her use of the phrase “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.” The House recently voted to censure Tlaib, prompting further scrutiny of her statement. This phrase, often chanted by pro-Palestinian supporters, has gained attention due to its association with the recent Hamas terrorist attack in Israel, which claimed the lives of 1,400 people.
Adding to the controversy, Chicago Ald. Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez, chairwoman of the city council’s Committee on Health and Human Relations, echoed the same phrase on social media. This drew additional backlash, with fellow Democrats harshly criticizing her. Michigan Democrat Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz emphasized that the phrase signifies the eradication of Israel and Jews, stating that dressing it up in a new PR ploy won’t change its meaning. Rep. Ritchie Torres, a Democrat from New York, echoed this sentiment, describing the phrase as a call for the end of Israel as a Jewish state.
Rodriguez-Sanchez, however, defended her use of the phrase, pushing back against criticism. She argued that while people focus on the slogan, they are ignoring the ongoing suffering of Palestinians and the alleged genocide being committed by Israel. She urged critics to recognize the plight of colonized people and the need for liberation.
The controversy surrounding Tlaib and Rodriguez-Sanchez’s use of the phrase highlights the deep divisions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While some argue that the phrase represents a call for justice and freedom for Palestinians, others see it as an attack on Israel’s existence as a Jewish state. The debate continues to rage on, with no immediate resolution in sight.
It is worth noting that the use of this phrase by Democratic politicians has sparked outrage, while Republicans have largely remained silent on the issue. This further highlights the political polarization surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Digital reached out to Rodriguez-Sanchez’s office for comment but did not receive a response. The controversy surrounding the use of this phrase by elected officials underscores the challenges faced in finding a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Adam Sabes is a writer for Digital. Story tips can be sent to [email protected] and on Twitter @asabes10.
