Philadelphia Groups Plan Boycott Ride Targeting Jewish Businesses

A bicycle boycott ride planned for Nov. 8 in Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square is targeting businesses whose owners are Jewish or Israeli American; organizers’ promotional materials call them “Zionist establishments” and say they should leave the city. The ride is planned for the eve of the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker and Jewish organizations condemned the targeting as intimidation and discrimination, while distinguishing criticism of Israeli government policies from targeting Jewish-owned businesses. Targeted owners said they felt frightened and angry, though some said they would not be intimidated and had received community support. Officials said they were coordinating with local partners on safety while affirming the right to peaceful protest.