New England Towns Become Hotbed for Anti-Israel BDS Movement and Rising Antisemitism

New England, known for its picturesque autumn foliage, maple syrup, and quiet rural life, has recently emerged as a significant front for the pro-Palestinian BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) movement in the United States. Over the past two years, small towns in Vermont and surrounding states have adopted municipal boycott resolutions against Israel, marking a shift from campus activism to local government and public schools.

This trend is rooted in New England's unique tradition of direct democracy through annual town meetings, where residents vote on a wide range of issues. Activist groups, including Quaker organizations and local peace coalitions, have leveraged these meetings to pass resolutions labeling towns as "apartheid-free communities" and pledging to sever economic ties with companies linked to the Israeli military. Towns such as Winooski, Brattleboro, Newfane, Plainfield, and Thetford have become pioneers in this municipal boycott movement. Larger cities like Boston and Cambridge have also condemned Israeli military actions in Gaza.

The political climate in Vermont, the home state of Senator Bernie Sanders, has facilitated this activism due to its strong anti-war and progressive culture. Activists argue that U.S. military aid to Israel diverts funds from local priorities like education and climate action. However, these developments have caused deep social rifts within communities, especially affecting Jewish and Israeli families. In Bristol, Vermont, residents of Israeli descent have faced emotional attacks and isolation during town meetings.

Alongside political actions, antisemitic incidents have surged in New England, with 400 reported cases in 2025, nearly double the pre-October 2023 figures. Approximately 41% of these incidents are directly related to Israel or Zionism. Disturbingly, antisemitism has spread from universities into public schools, with a 50% increase in incidents in Massachusetts schools alone. These include vandalism with swastikas, harassment, and physical threats.

In response, Jewish communities and pro-Israel organizations in Vermont, Maine, and Massachusetts have launched a campaign promoting "voluntourism" to Israel. This initiative, supported by the Israeli Ministry of Tourism and the Boston consulate, aims to counteract economic and cultural isolation by encouraging community volunteer trips. Jeremy Berger, chair of the New Hampshire Jewish Federation, announced a subsidized flight program to Israel, emphasizing the role of returnees as effective advocates against the boycott narrative.

The situation in New England highlights a growing normalization of BDS within American local institutions and the challenges faced by Jewish communities amid rising antisemitism and political polarization.