Lines form at boycotted Philly spots
Supporters queued outside six Jewish-owned restaurants in Rittenhouse Square as pro-Palestinian protesters biked through the neighborhood Sunday.
By Samir Doyle ·
Long lines formed outside six Jewish-owned restaurants near Rittenhouse Square on Sunday as supporters gathered to counter a local boycott. The targeted eateries included K'Far on South 19th Street and Goldie on the 1900 block of Sansom Street. Community members traveled from out of state to dine at these locations.
The Boycott Bike Ride began and ended in Rittenhouse Square. Several groups organized the event, with Philly Bike On Your Left leading the charge. Demonstrators rode through city streets to show solidarity with Palestinians. A social media flyer circulated by organizers listed the six restaurants, circling their names in red and crossing them out. The group labeled the owners Zionists and accused them of supporting Israel.
David Elkins, a visitor from New York, drove to Philadelphia with his wife and daughter after seeing the boycott online. He said the family spent the night in the city to participate in the counterprotest. Allan Domb, owner of Schlesinger's Deli, noted that the community response was special and heartwarming. He described the large turnout as a sign of strong local support.
Michael Balaban, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, stated that showing love was the only way to push back against hate. He pointed to the large lines outside the restaurants as evidence of that effort. Police officers worked to keep the two groups on opposite sides of the street during the event.
Clashes occurred at 18th and Walnut streets. Police reported three arrests during the protest. Action News witnessed at least one supporter being taken into custody. Earlier in the week, Mayor Cherelle Parker said the Philadelphia Police Department would maintain safety throughout the demonstration. She joined Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and other state leaders in condemning the protest.
In a statement, boycott organizers said they stand firmly against racism and oppression. They reiterated that the boycott targets the businesses specifically because of their support for Israel. Organizers announced that another boycott bike ride is planned for next Sunday.
