How a small, newly socialist US city became the second to cut ties with Israel

Providence voters approved a measure requiring the city to avoid investing in foreign countries that profit from genocide, apartheid, ethnic cleansing or prolonged military occupation. It passed with 75% support, making Providence the second US city to divest from Israel and showing how local ballot campaigns can turn public concern about Gaza into municipal policy.

The campaign began after city officials blocked earlier divestment efforts, and organisers said at least $2.5m in city funds were invested in companies with Israeli ties; the city also held more than $2m in Israeli bonds as recently as 2022. A coalition gathered over 10,000 signatures and mobilised nearly 300 volunteers, who knocked on 17,000 doors, made 18,000 calls and spoke with 30,000 residents. The article links the result to wider electoral gains for pro-Palestinian candidates and shifting US public opinion on Israel.