In the political sphere, controversy has erupted around Kamala Harris’s candidacy, fueled by pro-Palestine activists and their recent targeting of African American voters.
This discord has been particularly amplified on social media platforms like TikTok, where influencers within the pro-Palestine movement have criticized black Americans for supporting Harris, accusing them of complicity in policies they find objectionable.
The criticism reached a peak when TikTokker Rosol.s, who describes herself as “half Iraqi and half Palestinian” and has never been to the U.S., made an emotional plea online.
Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation – Save 10% With Code RVM10
In her video, she expressed frustration with African Americans, accusing them of perpetuating oppression against Palestinians. “Every f–king race in f–king America has oppressed us,” Rosol.s stated, pointing out that black Americans also contribute to military actions abroad that affect Palestinians.
@rosol.s Evil is evil. There are no levels. #fypp #fyp #viralfypシforyoupage ♬ original sound – Rosol
This sentiment spurred a strong response from black content creators on TikTok, who defended their community’s autonomy in political decisions. Tori Grier, a notable black TikTokker, criticized the entitlement of some pro-Palestine activists. “These are people who feel that they are entitled to the support of black people no matter what, that they get to push us around and tell us who the hell we get to vote for if we support them, as if that means we’re just not supposed to give a damn about ourselves,” Grier articulated.
@torigrier.4 Replying to @Jada🧜🏾♀️♑️ ♬ original sound – Back that thing up 🇨🇩🇭🇹
Another creator, Jortyunofficial, directly addressed Rosol.s’s comments, expressing outrage at being blamed for broader geopolitical issues. Meanwhile, other black creators have voiced disillusionment with what they perceive as fair-weather allyship from pro-Palestine activists, citing anti-black sentiments emerging when black voters do not align with their expectations.
@jortyunofficial This is such an immature and unrealistic take and seeing some people I follow repost it is disappointing. We are not to blame for others pulling the trigger when we’re nowhere near them to stop them and don’t have the power to do so, even if you think we do. The unity that we would need to affect change is not there. Dont judge me for wanting to live. #fyp #Blacktok #discussion #protests #whitehouse #election #gaza #congo #sudan ♬ original sound – Jorty Unofficial – Musician/VO
The debate has intensified with Harris’s stance on Israel and her actions as Vice President. Critics from the pro-Palestine camp have accused her of vague positions and insufficient action regarding Palestinian rights, especially following her condemnation of disruptive pro-Palestine protests in D.C. and her interactions with Israeli officials like Benjamin Netanyahu. Harris’s “unwavering commitment to the existence of the State of Israel,” as expressed after a meeting with Netanyahu, has particularly alienated some pro-Palestine activists.
In response, some members of the pro-Palestine community have advocated for a voting strategy of “uncommitted” to protest the Democratic Party’s stance on Israel, a tactic supported by the Uncommitted National Movement.
This movement claims that the Democratic Party has failed to address the concerns of key constituencies within its base, particularly regarding foreign policy and racial justice.
Amidst these tensions, the narrative within the pro-Palestine community on platforms like TikTok has shifted.
@pistachiochaii♬ original sound – 🤍🕊️
Some activists are now acknowledging the complexities of aligning diverse political and cultural groups under a single cause, recognizing the challenges in balancing broad coalitions while adhering to strict ideological frameworks.
@notyourlawyermd No one in the history of U.S. presidential elections has had to do less than KH to win, let alone become the first female blasian president. Indeed, she just has to stop being a monster to trapped and defenseless children. But she’s proving herself to be a dangerous sellout, the worst kind. No American should vote for someone who has apathy towards kids. Enough votes today makes Green viable tomorrow. We need a third prong in the equation to preserve (and ultimately take back) whatever is left of our democracy. #gold #olympics #pixiecut #fyp #basketball ♬ original sound – Asim
This unfolding discourse highlights the intricate dynamics of political allegiance and the pressures faced by minority communities in navigating the intersecting landscapes of domestic and international issues as the general election approaches.
.
