Global Conference for Israel begins amid Denver protests
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Pro-Palestinian protestors outside the Global Conference for Israel in downtown Denver Thursday. Photo: Esteban L. Hernandez/Axios
Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protestors gathered outside the Colorado Convention Center Thursday night as the Global Conference for Israel began in Denver under heightened security.
Driving the news: The annual conference was planned long before the Israel-Hamas war broke out, but the event has mobilized pro-Palestenian groups, including the Colorado Palestine Coalition, the Party for Socialism & Liberation and Jewish Voice for Peace, an anti-Zionist Jewish group.
- Allie Cannington of Jewish Voice for Peace tells Axios the demonstrations are a continuation of large-scale protests that started after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack.
- The groups called for a permanent ceasefire, a removal of what they characterized as Israel's "apartheid" policies and an end to the country's involvement in Palestine.
- They were closely monitored by Denver police and sheriffs deputies and prohibited from entering the event.
Details: The four-day conference is organized by the National Jewish Fund-USA, which bills itself as a nonprofit supporting Israel.
- It set a goal to raise $10 million in 30 days for aid to Israel last month.
What they're saying: "If anyone asks why the world needs a Jewish state of Israel, the evidence is now more self-evident than ever before," Gov. Jared Polis said during opening remarks at the conference, referencing the Oct. 7 attack.
- Polis is Colorado's first Jewish governor.
Of note: Roads were closed in front of the Convention Center, and a metal fence was set up around the entrance on 14th Street.
- Police at one point posted a sign warning protestors to stay back from doors to the Bellco Theater — where Polis' remarks were held — or they would use a chemical agent.
Between the lines: While the Israel-Hamas War is currently under a ceasefire for hostage releases, Cannington of Jewish Voice for Peace tells us her group doesn't think, "Israel deserves unconditional and uncritical support."
- Lillian House, an organizer with the Denver chapter of the Party for Socialism & Liberation, says the organization wants an end to U.S. aid for Israel.
Meanwhile: Conference attendees told Axios they felt safe. They were required to enter through a security checkpoint, while uniformed police officers milled around inside.
- Raphael Leban, who lives in Denver's Lowry neighborhood, said he felt compelled to attend the conference for the first time in part because of the ongoing conflict.
- "Now, more than ever, it feels so much more important to be here," Abigail Mendel Gutman, who works in fundraising for the Jewish National Fund-USA, tells us.
What's next: The conference runs through Sunday.
- Opposition groups say they plan to hold demonstrations on site each day.