This post was written by Hatchet reporter Kierran Petersen.

Members of the University’s chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine joined protestors at the White House Saturday to advocate for the United Nations’ recognition of Palestine.

The Palestinian bid for statehood, which President Barack Obama has promised to veto, would give Palestine the title of “non-member observer state” in the U.N., giving them some clout in discussions with Israel concerning border disputes

Junior Adam Akkad, said he said it is important to foster open debate.

“There is no discussion, there is no conversation about what is happening in Palestine,” he said.

After several speakers, including Paul Verduin of D.C. Sabeel – an organization aimed at spurring non-violent movements towards “justice, peace, and reconciliation” for the people of Palestine and Israel – the vocal group began a march to the Capitol Building.

Pennsylvania Avenue rang out with chants of “free free Palestine, occupation is a crime” as the group rallied support with some cheering passers-by and honking taxi drivers.

One woman on the Capitol Lawn, who chose to remain anonymous, provided the only opposition the gathering saw.

The Student Alliance for Israel didn’t return request for a comment.