Protest Against Jewish Businesses in Philadelphia Ahead of Kristallnacht Anniversary

Anti-Israel organizations held a bicycle protest in Philadelphia on Sunday targeting six businesses owned by Jews and Israelis, on the eve of the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht. The protest, dubbed a "boycott ride," was conducted under the slogan "These Zionist institutions must go." In response, members of the Jewish and Israeli-American community visited the targeted businesses to show support for their owners. According to the Israeli-American Council (IAC), the protest route passed by six businesses in the city: Mak Mart, Kaffa Coffee, Hoda, Goldie, Dizengoff, and Schlesinger's. IAC members and other organizations visited these establishments, ordered food, and met with the owners. Participants held signs of support and flags of Israel and the United States outside the businesses. "When we heard about a ride taking place on the eve of Kristallnacht, we couldn't help but think of history and tell ourselves: we will not let this happen again," the IAC stated. The organization claimed the protest was not directed against government policy but against business owners due to their identity and views. "When people publish a list of Jewish businesses and organize to drive them out of a city, it's a pattern we recognize from history," they added. The IAC urged the public to continue supporting these businesses even after the protest. "A boycott works by making Jewish business owners feel isolated and driving away customers. One Sunday of support is a response. Coming every week, in Philadelphia and every city where our community lives, that is the answer," the organization said. The IAC announced it would encourage community members in Philadelphia and across the United States to continue visiting and patronizing the six businesses. Founded in Los Angeles in 2007, the IAC works with Israeli-American communities throughout the U.S., focusing on combating antisemitism.