The Israeli American Council (IAC) unveiled its "Hostage Square" exhibit on Tuesday, at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, drawing attention to Israeli captives held by Hamas. This public art installation emerges as the city experiences large pro-Palestinian demonstrations during the political event.
An IAC spokesperson confirmed to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency that the exhibit is situated on private property near the United Center, where the convention is taking place. By choosing a private lot, the organization bypassed the need for a city permit, which they reportedly had difficulty obtaining.
"Hostage Square Chicago will be a place where all Americans, especially Jewish Americans, can express solidarity and prayer for our hostages who still remain in Hamas hell, condemn the savage massacre of October 7, and pray for Israel's victory over her genocidal enemies," IAC CEO Elan Carr, the former US Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism said, underscoring the importance of keeping the issue in the public consciousness.
He added, "It will also be a place where we can dwell with pride over America's strong support of the Jewish people and the State of Israel."
The strategic timing of the installation during the Democratic National Convention aims to capture the attention of political leaders and media gathered for the high-profile event. The use of a private lot for the exhibit has allowed the IAC to overcome potential bureaucratic obstacles that might have impeded their plans.
The IAC's initiative unfolds against a backdrop of heightened tensions and competing narratives surrounding the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. As pro-Palestinian groups stage demonstrations during the convention, the "Hostage Square" provides a counterpoint, focusing on the experiences of Israelis held captive. "Chicago has continued to offer space for protests and marches to pro-Hamas and anti-Israel would-be rioters but has either denied or ignored multiple requests by IAC to demonstrate in support of America and Israel," the IAC statement read.
Representatives of the hostages' families met yesterday with Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris's advisor, Ilan Goldenberg. According to Gili Roman, brother of Yardan Roman who is held captive in Gaza, Goldenberg stated that there is no difference between Harris' and President Joe Biden's positions regarding the return of the hostages. He also mentioned he attended a Democratic Party LGBTQ community conference, to which many of the participants wore keffiyehs, creating what he felt was a "tense atmosphere."
