Rosen Condemns Planned Boycott of Jewish and Israeli-Owned Philadelphia Businesses

U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen on November 5 condemned a planned boycott of Jewish and Israeli-owned businesses in and around Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square. Her statement addressed a bicycle rally scheduled for Sunday, November 8, rather than an event that had already taken place. Rosen described the targeting of businesses on the basis of their owners’ identities as “deeply antisemitic and chilling.” The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission has also condemned the targeting of Jewish-owned businesses in Philadelphia. Its statement addresses the planned “Boycott Ride” and businesses with Jewish owners or Israeli associations. The commission expressed solidarity with the affected establishments, their employees and their customers. Commissioner Andrea J. Martin described the exclusion of Jewish people from economic and civic life as a concern raised by the campaign. Interim Executive Director Amber J.E. Harris distinguished protected political expression from discriminatory intimidation. The commission’s response focused on the targeting of businesses because of Jewish identity or associations with Israel. The commission noted that the ride was reportedly scheduled for November 8, on the eve of the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht. Its statement recalled the 1938 attacks on Jewish businesses, homes and synagogues.