The recent Democratic National Convention was brought to tears by the heartfelt plea of Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg-Polin, parents of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a 23-year-old American taken hostage by Hamas during the recent attack on Israel. The couple shared their emotional journey, calling for the release of all hostages held in Gaza.
Despite the political nature of the convention, the Polins emphasized that bringing their son and the other hostages back home is not a political issue but a humanitarian one. Their moving speech was met with a thunderous ovation from thousands of delegates in attendance, echoing the sentiment of “bring him home.”
The Polins refrained from delving into politics during their speech but highlighted the bipartisan support they have received in their quest for their son’s release. They acknowledged the efforts of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in negotiating a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas for the safe return of the remaining hostages.
Wearing stickers with the number 320, symbolizing the days their son has been held captive, the Polins shared the human aspect of the Israel-Hamas conflict, shedding light on the families’ anguish and hope for their loved ones’ safe return.
The Uncommitted Movement, dissatisfied with Biden’s handling of the crisis, advocated for a Palestinian speaker at the convention but was denied. The movement’s leaders continue to push for Palestinian representation and inclusivity within the Democratic Party, urging a bipartisan approach to secure the hostages’ release.
As the world watches the Israel-Hamas conflict unfold, families like the Polins and the Neutras have become the faces of hope and perseverance, calling on leaders to unite and prioritize peace for the sake of their loved ones still in captivity.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission.
