This is the Holiday Killjoy family.
Eman Abdelhadi, the sister of Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, has also distanced herself from conventional American holidays, echoing concerns her brother has faced regarding his views on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, and even football.
Abdelhadi, who works as an assistant professor at the University of Chicago, had some social media posts brought back into focus following her brother’s recent primary win. In a 2016 tweet, she expressed her reluctance to celebrate Independence Day, stating, “Sorry for not celebrating the transfer of stolen land from one colonizer to another.”
In another instance, she shared concerns about her niece possibly learning “settler colonial propaganda” at school, but later noted with relief that the primary takeaway was just “turkey.” In a post from November 2024, she argued that while Thanksgiving could be a positive occasion, its association with genocide complicates that perspective. She remarked, “People can come together to express their gratitude, exchange gifts, and eat without having to buy anything other than food,” adding, “No good can happen under settler colonialism. May all empires fall.”
El-Sayed’s campaign spokesperson, Sophie Pollock, stated that while Abdul loves his sister, they often disagree on political beliefs, particularly regarding rhetoric. Pollock emphasized that what’s crucial to voters in Michigan is El-Sayed’s public service record and his love for America.
Abdelhadi is known for her pro-Palestinian and anti-ICE activism. She was arrested last year during a protest outside an immigration detention center and faced charges related to her actions. Reflecting on her choice, she said, “You’re either resisting or you’re complicit.” Meanwhile, in 2019, El-Sayed shared a now-deleted post on Thanksgiving, pointing out the systemic issues facing indigenous populations and stating that “we owe you more than ‘thank you.'” He underscored the ongoing need for reparations.
He has also raised alternative ways to observe Independence Day, suggesting in a video that celebrations could be more considerate, warning that “fireworks can cause PTSD in veterans.” In previous comments, El-Sayed criticized football for reflecting the “sordid history of oppressing others in the name of American ideals.” However, his campaign clarified that he appreciates Michigan football and celebrates Independence Day like many others.
After her brother’s victory, Abdelhadi responded to critics by stating that their objective is to enact meaningful policy changes for their communities and save lives at home and abroad. She expresses frustration with those who misinterpret their goals as purely ideological, stressing the urgency of real change.
Both siblings have labeled Israel’s military actions in Gaza as “genocide.” Abdelhadi has faced challenges related to speaking engagements, claiming she was canceled by Notre Dame for her views.
No comments have been received from representatives for Mr. Abdelhadi regarding these issues.
