Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has strongly condemned a planned protest targeting Jewish-owned businesses on the eve of the Kristallnacht anniversary, stating that hate has no place in her city.
In a statement posted to X on Thursday, Parker declared that while peaceful protest is a right, "singling out businesses because their owners are Jewish is unacceptable and has no place in our city." She emphasized that no one should be targeted or made to feel unwelcome due to their faith, identity, or background.
The planned demonstration falls on the anniversary of Kristallnacht, the 1938 Nazi-led pogroms against Jewish communities in Germany and Austria. "Anyone who engages in threats, intimidation, or unlawful conduct will be held accountable," Parker warned.
Parker has directed the police to ensure the safety of residents, businesses, and houses of worship, while also safeguarding the constitutional rights of peaceful demonstrators. "Safety is non-negotiable," she stated.
The protest, organized by the Philly Bike On Your Left group and two other anti-Israel activist organizations, aims to boycott businesses including Mac Mart, K’Far Cafe, Huda Burger, Goldie, Dizengoff, and Schlesinger’s. Promotional materials for the event used antisemitic language, stating, "No business for zionists! These zionist establishments must go! Not in our city!"
Marti Lieberman, co-owner of Mac Mart, expressed concern over the antisemitic messaging, noting that her business has no connection to Israel or Judaism. She stated that the targeting felt particularly hurtful given its timing on the eve of the Kristallnacht anniversary, a date commemorating the "crystal night" of broken windows and violence against Jewish communities.