Hostage Families Raise Awareness Outside Democratic National Convention

Families of hostages held in Gaza have taken their fight for awareness to the streets of Chicago, creating a poignant replica of Tel Aviv's ‘Hostage Square’ outside the Democratic National Convention (DNC). These families are using the convention as a platform to bring attention to the dire situation of their loved ones, many of whom were abducted by Hamas during the horrific events of October 7th.

Ruby Chen, the father of the late Itay Chen—a soldier whose body was taken to Gaza after he was killed during the October 7th attack—has become a central figure in this effort. Chen and other hostage families are working to differentiate their plea for the hostages’ release from any broader political stance on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Their focus remains squarely on the urgent need to secure the release and return of their relatives.

In a significant moment during the DNC, Chen attended a breakfast with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a prominent member of the progressive “Squad.” Chen reminded Ocasio-Cortez of their shared New York roots, urging her to stand by his family in their time of need. Ocasio-Cortez reportedly agreed with Chen’s appeal, and there is hope for a follow-up meeting to further discuss the issue.

The replica Hostage Square in Chicago, organized by the Israeli American Council, features images of eight US hostages currently held in Gaza. The display, reminiscent of the original in Tel Aviv, is set up on private property and in a designated "Speakers Platform" area after the group was denied a permit for a location closer to the convention site. The photos are displayed on large panels designed to evoke the missing person’s announcements once common on milk cartons, making a powerful statement about the ongoing plight of the hostages.

Chen and the other families are not just looking to raise awareness outside the convention. Chen is pushing for a speaking slot at the DNC itself, similar to the prime-time speech given by the parents of American-Israeli Omer Neutra at the Republican National Convention. He remains “cautiously optimistic” that their cause will be given a voice on the convention floor before it concludes on Thursday night.

As these families continue their efforts to bring attention to the hostages, their presence at the DNC serves as a reminder of the human lives caught in the crossfire of the conflict. They are hopeful that their message will resonate with both politicians and the public, ensuring that their loved ones are not forgotten.

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