Photo: MATTHEW HATCHER / AFP / Getty Images
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has condemned a planned boycott targeting Jewish-owned and Israeli-owned businesses in the city. The protest, scheduled for Sunday (November 8) near Rittenhouse Square, has drawn criticism from state and local leaders, as well as Jewish advocacy groups. The event, known as the "Boycott Ride," coincides with the eve of the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht, a night of anti-Jewish violence in Nazi Germany.
Mayor Parker stated that targeting businesses because their owners are Jewish is "unacceptable and has no place in our city." She directed police to ensure safety during the protest, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public order and protecting residents, businesses, and houses of worship. Fox 29 reported that the Philadelphia Police Department is prioritizing safety and public order for the upcoming protest.
The rally has been organized by Philly Bike On Your Left, with support from other activist groups. Flyers promoting the event have been criticized for using language reminiscent of Nazi propaganda. Jewish organizations, including the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, have labeled the boycott as antisemitic. "Marking businesses for removal from Philadelphia is an attempt to intimidate, marginalize, and exclude members of the Jewish community," the federation stated.
Several Jewish-owned businesses, such as K’far Café, Goldie, and Dizengoff, co-owned by chef Michael Solomonov, are among those targeted. Business owners have expressed their determination to remain open during the boycott. Yehuda Sichel, owner of Huda in Rittenhouse, stated, "We will not be terrorized."
The timing of the protest has heightened concerns, given its proximity to the anniversary of Kristallnacht. City & State PA reported that the Anti-Defamation League and other Jewish organizations released a joint statement condemning the rally, calling it "Jew-Hatred, plain and simple."
Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson emphasized the historical significance of the protest's timing, stating, "We cannot ignore the dangerous consequences of allowing antisemitism and hatred to go unchecked in America." He urged Philadelphians to stand in solidarity with the Jewish community.
A community food crawl is being organized to support the businesses named in the flyer, encouraging residents to show visible solidarity against the boycott.