Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the vice-presidential nominee alongside Kamala Harris, has been accused of neglecting the concerns of Palestinian families.

Anti-war activists expressed frustration over Walz’s perceived lack of engagement with the Palestinian community, Middle East Eye (MEE) reported.

In March, Walz supported the "uncommitted movement," which advocates for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid. However, critics argue that concrete actions have not matched his public statements.

Sana Wazwaz, chapter lead for American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) in Minnesota, revealed that efforts to arrange a meeting with Walz to discuss the dire situation in Gaza and push for an arms embargo on “Israel” have been unsuccessful. 

A planned meeting in early July, coordinated with the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), was canceled abruptly. 

Wazwaz and a group of activists, including family members who lost relatives in the Israeli Occupation aggression on Gaza, were told the governor’s office was not prepared to discuss their policy proposals, only personal stories.

Suleiman Adan, executive director of CAIR-MN, corroborated Wazwaz’s account, stating that the community sought a serious dialogue on the ongoing harm to Palestinians and was disheartened by the cancellation of the meeting.

Activists in Minnesota have been calling for the state to divest from “Israeli” companies and bonds, estimated at around USD 119 million, and to repeal anti-boycott legislation enacted in 2017. 

Despite these demands, Walz has shown little inclination to address these issues.

In December, a protest at Walz’s Christmas party highlighted demands for divestment, with activists accusing him of ignoring their calls for action.

Walz’s pro-“Israel” stance has been evident, with praise from pro-“Israel” lobbying groups such as J Street and Democratic Majority for Israel (DMFI). 

Following October 7, Walz ordered state flags to be lowered for “Israel” and condemned those who did not immediately denounce the violence.