The Cherry Hill-based Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey has condemned a planned Nov. 8 bicycle rally targeting businesses in Philadelphia.
CEO Jennifer Dubrow Weiss urged public officials to condemn the gathering and neighbors to support Jewish- and Israeli-owned businesses, Jewish Community Voice first reported.
Camden County adds its response
Commissioner Jeffrey Nash condemned the planned boycott in a Nov. 6 statement on behalf of Camden County’s commissioners. He described it as intimidation of the Jewish community.
Nash said he planned to patronize one of the targeted businesses. He also commended Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker and Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday for condemning the boycott.
Jewish organizations call it antisemitic
ADL Philadelphia, American Jewish Committee Philadelphia/Southern New Jersey, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia and StandWithUs issued a joint statement Nov. 2 condemning the “Boycott Ride” as antisemitic.
The statement identifies Rittenhouse Square as the planned gathering place. It says the flyer singles out businesses including Dizengoff, Huda, Schlesinger’s and Mac Mart.
The groups said the event’s timing, before the Nov. 9–10 anniversary of Kristallnacht, heightened their concern. They distinguished criticism of Israeli government policy from targeting owners because of their identity or perceived beliefs.
City & State Pennsylvania reported Nov. 6 that the Instagram page promoting the ride had been removed. The publication said the apparent organizer did not respond to its requests for comment.
Federation issues safety guidance
In a Nov. 5 update, the Philadelphia federation said it was working with law enforcement and communal partners on safety. It encouraged supporters to avoid engaging with protesters.
The federation asked out-of-town allies to hold off on traveling into Philadelphia that weekend. It suggested online purchases or a later visit as alternatives.
