PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Mayor Cherelle Parker and other elected officials are condemning a planned protest this weekend of Jewish- and Israeli-owned businesses in Center City.
Organizers of the “Boycott Ride” say they plan to protest outside six restaurants in Rittenhouse Square that they call “Zionist business owners”: Mac Mart, K’Far Cafe, Huda, Goldie, Dizengoff and Schlesinger’s Deli.
The action has garnered a lot of attention on social media, though the protesters are not affiliated with any recognized group. It’s unclear how many will participate.
Parker condemned the boycott, saying in a statement that the action “targets Jewish-owned restaurants,” and “no one should be targeted, threatened, or made to feel unwelcome because of their faith, identity, or background.”
Parker and opponents of the protest also note that the boycott takes place on the eve of the anniversary of Kristallnacht, the night when Jewish businesses and synagogues were attacked and destroyed in Nazi Germany in 1938.
“Everyone has the right to peacefully protest and express their political views. But singling out businesses because their owners are Jewish is unacceptable and has no place in our city,” she said. “Anyone who engages in threats, intimidation, or unlawful conduct will be held accountable.”
The mayor said police will monitor Sunday’s protest and protect businesses.
The ‘Boycott Ride’ has drawn a lot of attention on social media
The ‘Boycott Ride’ has drawn a lot of attention on social media
