Philadelphia ‘boycott ride’ targeting Jewish businesses draws condemnation from city, state leadership

Jewish organisations and political leaders have condemned a planned bicycle boycott in Philadelphia that names businesses owned by Jewish or Israeli Americans. The dispute centres on whether the event is political protest or a form of antisemitic targeting and intimidation.

The ride is scheduled for 8 November at Rittenhouse Square, on the eve of the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht. Its flyer names Dizengoff, Huda, Schlesinger’s and Mac Mart. Philadelphia’s human relations commission said it would not allow hate to drive businesses or jobs from the city, while Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said state police were coordinating with local authorities. Mac Mart’s owner said the business had received public support.