On the final day of Ramadan, Muslim protesters in Michigan made their voices heard through chants of “Death to America” and “Death to Israel” during demonstrations, particularly at an International Al-Quds Day rally in Dearborn.
The fervent slogans reverberated through the streets of Dearborn as demonstrators expressed their dissatisfaction and grievances. Among the crowd was Tarek Bazzi, a Michigan-based activist associated with the Hadi Institute, who delivered a speech referencing Imam Khomeini’s call for the International Al-Quds Day. Bazzi encouraged attendees to direct their frustrations toward America, aligning with the sentiments of the rally. The crowd echoed his sentiments with resounding chants of “Death to America!”
Bazzi attributed the anti-American sentiment within the rally to the alleged support provided by the United States for injustices, particularly highlighting Israel’s blockade of Gaza as an example. Drawing upon the words of Malcolm X, he harshly criticized the U.S., labeling it as “one of the rottenest countries” and advocating for the dismantling of the entire American system.
Expanding his critique to Israel, Bazzi endorsed the slogan “Death to Israel” as a rational response to inquiries about Israel’s right to exist. This sentiment was met with unified chants of “Death to Israel” from the audience, underscoring a collective condemnation of Israel’s policies and actions.
The dissemination of a video capturing these events by the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) amplified the impact of the protests, drawing attention to the expressions of dissent and discontent within the Muslim community in Michigan.
These demonstrations reflect a broader sentiment of frustration and anger towards perceived injustices committed by both the United States and Israel, particularly within the context of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The rallying cries of “Death to America” and “Death to Israel” serve as potent expressions of dissent, highlighting the depth of emotions and grievances among protesters.
Overall, the protests in Michigan underscore the complex dynamics surrounding issues of geopolitics, religion, and social justice, shedding light on the diverse perspectives and voices within the Muslim community and their engagement with global affairs.
You can disagree w/ American policies and how things are being handled, but don’t ever say “Death to America.”
I’m typically against p people, but in this case I’m for it. Don’t place a threat on America…moreover don’t do it on American soil.pic.twitter.com/FRQ5IxXH99
— Andy (@AndyKas10) April 8, 2024
Protestors in Michigan: “Deațh to America!”…“Deațh to Israel!”
Joe Biden: “The most dangerous terrórist threat to our homeland is white supremacy.”
Are you paying attention yet?
🎥: @MEMRIReports pic.twitter.com/owLhq4UJ6e
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) April 7, 2024