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Boycott of Jewish-owned Philly businesses draws counterprotest
6abc Philadelphia • • general
Key Points:
- A boycott targeting six Jewish-owned restaurants near Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia sparked demonstrations and long lines of supporters showing solidarity with Palestinians during a Boycott Bike Ride event.
- The ride, organized by groups including Philly Bike On Your Left, accused the targeted business owners of supporting Israel and labeled them Zionists, while supporters gathered outside the restaurants in opposition to the boycott.
- Clashes occurred between protesters and supporters, resulting in the arrest of a 17-year-old for assault on police, two adult arrests, and minor injuries to two officers; police worked to keep the groups separated.
- Jewish community leaders, including Michael Balaban of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, emphasized the importance of responding to hate with love, as evidenced by the strong turnout in support of the targeted businesses.
- Philadelphia officials, including Mayor Cherelle Parker and Governor Josh Shapiro, condemned the protest, with organizers planning another boycott bike ride for the following Sunday.
