Officials condemn planned Philadelphia ‘boycott ride’ of Jewish-owned businesses as antisemitic

Key Points:

• State and local officials in Pennsylvania have condemned a planned bicycle boycott targeting Jewish-owned businesses in Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square, labeling it antisemitic and unacceptable, especially as it coincides with the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht.
• The protest, organized by Philly Bike On Your Left, an anti-Zionist group, aims to boycott six Jewish-owned restaurants, drawing criticism for singling out businesses based on their owners' Jewish identity.
• Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Attorney General Josh Shapiro emphasized that the boycott is intended to intimidate and drive Jewish businesses out of the community, with state police coordinating to ensure public safety during the event.
• Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker affirmed the right to peaceful protest but condemned targeting businesses due to their owners' religion, promising police presence to maintain order and hold accountable anyone engaging in unlawful behavior.
• The Anti-Defamation League and other local Jewish organizations strongly denounced the protest as disguised antisemitism, while the organizers defended their stance as opposing Zionism, sparking ongoing controversy and debate.