1,000 comments flood mayor's post on Rittenhouse boycott
City leaders and religious groups condemn a Sunday protest targeting Jewish-owned shops, with police preparing for the event.
By Beatriz Soto ·
A planned bicycle protest targeting Jewish-owned businesses near Rittenhouse Square has drawn sharp criticism from Philadelphia officials and religious leaders. The event, scheduled for Sunday, November 8, coincides with the eve of the anniversary of Kristallnacht. Flyers circulating on social media list specific shops for the ride.
Mayor Cherelle Parker condemned the singling out of businesses based on their owners' faith. She described the action as unacceptable and stated that it has no place in the city. State Representative Amen Brown used stronger language, calling the event disgraceful and hateful. Brown argued that targeting Jewish businesses constitutes antisemitism and Jew-hatred.
Religious and civic groups joined the chorus of opposition. The Philadelphia Council of Clergy Global expressed outrage at the hatred directed at Jewish neighbors. The group urged residents to stand peacefully with Jewish congregations and businesses. They also called for the cancellation of the boycott ride. The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia labeled the boycott an attempt to intimidate and marginalize Jewish members of the community.
Business owners named in the flyer say they intend to keep their doors open. Yehuda Sichel, chef and owner of Huda restaurant in Rittenhouse, stated that the establishment will not be terrorized. He emphasized that the business is not going anywhere. A community food crawl is being organized to show support for the targeted shops.
Philadelphia police confirmed that safety and public order are top priorities. Mayor Parker directed the Police Commissioner to coordinate with community partners and other agencies. Police plan to maintain order, protect nearby residents and houses of worship, and safeguard the rights of those demonstrating peacefully.
The controversy generated a large online response. More than 1,000 comments appeared on Mayor Parker's statement posted on November 5. Pennsylvania senators and the state attorney general also issued condemnations of the planned ride. Officials noted that attention to the flyer has grown both locally and statewide.
Police and local business owners have not clarified the specific actions cyclists plan to take during the ride. It remains unclear what the riders will do as they pass the listed businesses.
