Mia Boykin
As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to address Congress on Wednesday, July 23, Washington, D.C. residents are gearing up for a week of protests, heightened security, and political tension. The situation has been further complicated by Vice President Kamala Harris’s decision to skip Netanyahu’s address, a move that highlights the divisions within the Democratic Party over the Gaza conflict.
Vice President Harris’s absence is likely an attempt to distance herself from the Biden administration’s stance on the Gaza conflict, which has caused rifts within the Democratic Party and among young voters especially online. Vice President Harris is set to hit the campaign trail soon, days after securing Democratic party leaders’ support.
Instead, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Ben Cardin (D-MD) will preside over the speech. This political maneuvering may increase the already charged atmosphere in the city, potentially leading to larger protests and more intense demonstrations.
The week’s events kick off on Tuesday evening with a vigil on the National Mall organized by families of hostages taken during the October 7 attack. However, the main activities are scheduled for Wednesday, coinciding with Netanyahu’s address to Congress.
For DC residents, these events mean significant disruptions to daily life, particularly in terms of traffic and public transportation. Areas around the Capitol, National Mall, and Union Station will be especially affected. The D.C. Police Traffic Division (@DCPoliceTraffic on X) will provide real-time updates on traffic conditions, but residents are advised to plan alternative routes or allow extra time for their commutes throughout the week.
Security measures will be heightened across the city, particularly around government buildings and protest sites. D.C. Police spokesman Paris Lewbel has stated that while there are no known threats, the department is closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with federal partners. Residents and workers in affected areas should expect additional screenings and potential delays.
The protests reflect a range of viewpoints on the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. Brian Becker, national director of the ANSWER Coalition, expressed strong opposition to Netanyahu’s visit, stating, “We consider it a disgrace that Benjamin Netanyahu has been invited to speak to both houses of Congress. We will be protesting in the many, many thousands to say that he should not be welcomed,” he told the Washington Post.
On the other hand, Bar Ben Yaakov and Matan Sivek, organizers of the hostage vigil, emphasized the personal impact of these events, saying, “Netanyahu’s visit to the U.S. has added a lot of stress and uncertainty for the families. Many of them, including us, were really hoping he would travel to the U.S. with the good news of having sealed the deal.”
Local businesses, particularly those in the vicinity of planned demonstrations, may face disruptions and might adjust their hours or strengthen security measures during this period. The increased media presence in the city, drawn by the political drama surrounding Netanyahu’s visit and Harris’s absence, may also contribute to the general bustle and potential congestion in certain areas.
For DC residents unaffiliated with the protests, the immediate concern will be navigating the practical challenges posed by the influx of protesters, increased security measures, and potential political tensions. While the political implications of Netanyahu’s visit and Harris’s absence are significant, many in D.C. will be focused on maintaining their daily routines amidst the disruptions. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about local updates, be patient with any inconveniences, and prioritize safety during this high-profile week in the nation’s capital.
DC Demonstrations and Protest Locations
Tuesday, July 23
• 6 PM: Hostage families vigil (National Mall)
Wednesday, July 24
• 10 AM: T’ruah prayer (First St & Delaware Ave NE, south of Union Station)
• 11 AM: Main demonstration (Starting at Third St NW & Pennsylvania Ave, looping Capitol)
• 12 PM: UnXeptable rally (Upper Senate Park)
• 1 PM: “Peace & Justice Bloc” near Capitol + Socialist groups’ rally (National Mall, 3rd-4th St SW)
• 4-8 PM: “GoGo for Gaza” (Union Station)
