Philadelphia mayor slams ‘unacceptable’ protest against Jewish-owned shops on Nazi terror anniversary

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker condemned a planned protest and boycott of Jewish-owned businesses in the city’s Rittenhouse Square, calling the targeting of businesses because their owners are Jewish “unacceptable”. The protest is scheduled for the eve of the Kristallnacht anniversary, giving the planned action added significance for Jewish residents and others who remember the history of anti-Jewish persecution.

Three activist groups called for the boycott, naming Mac Mart, K’Far Cafe, Huda Burger, Goldie, Dizengoff and Schlesinger’s. Mac Mart co-owner Marti Lieberman said the messaging was frightening and that her business had no connection to Israel or Judaism. Parker said police would protect residents, businesses and places of worship while safeguarding peaceful protest; Kristallnacht, on 9 and 10 November 1938, included attacks on Jewish communities in Germany and Austria and the murder of at least 91 Jews.