Philadelphia Jews March and Ride for Israel After Boycott of Jewish-Owned Businesses

Philadelphia Jews and supporters gathered on Sunday, November 15, for the Jewish Life Cycle March and Ride for Israel, following a boycott campaign against Jewish- and Israeli-owned businesses earlier this month. The Philadelphia Israel Alliance organized the march and bicycle ride from the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps to the Liberty Bell. Participating groups included the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, American Jewish Committee, End Jew Hatred, Hadassah and congregation Mikva Israel. Aryeh Shalom, co-manager of The Chevra, began the initiative with an impromptu flyer. Organizers said it received more than 100,000 shares, prompting coordination with city authorities over permits and police protection. Speaking on his way to the rally, Shalom said he had initially pictured a small, peaceful outing for young professionals carrying American and Israeli flags. He linked the initiative to his wish for his children to display their Jewish identity without fear. Rachel Aliev, co-chair of the Chevra Sisterhood, said in opening remarks: “This is not a counterprotest.” She described the gathering as an expression of Jewish and American pride, affection for the community and love for Philadelphia and the United States. The sisterhood represents young Jewish professionals within the alliance. The earlier anti-Israel bicycle boycott targeted Jewish- and Israeli-owned establishments near the anniversary of Kristallnacht. Residents and allies subsequently visited the targeted businesses in solidarity.