The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) today condemned efforts to target Jewish-owned businesses in Philadelphia and urged all Pennsylvanians to reject antisemitism, intimidation, and discrimination in all forms.
Recent reports indicate that organizers of a planned Philadelphia "Boycott Ride" identified several Jewish-owned and Israeli-associated businesses and promoted messaging including "no business for Zionists" and "these Zionist establishments must go." The event is reportedly scheduled for November 8, the eve of the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht, the 1938 Nazi campaign of violence and destruction directed at Jewish businesses, homes, and synagogues.
“Publicly identifying Jewish-owned businesses and declaring that they must go sends a message to Jewish Pennsylvanians that they are unwelcome in the economic and civic life of their own communities,” said PHRC Commissioner Andrea J. Martin. “Such efforts to intimidate, marginalize, and exclude Jewish business owners should concern every Pennsylvanian who believes in equal rights and the dignity of all people.
“The right to express political views, including through peaceful protest and boycotts, is a fundamental part of our democracy,” said PHRC Interim Executive Director Amber J.E. Harris. "However, that right does not place discriminatory intimidation beyond criticism or accountability. When businesses are singled out because of the real or perceived religion, ancestry, or identity of their owners, we must recognize the harm that such actions can inflict on individuals and entire communities. No Pennsylvanian should be made to feel unwelcome or unsafe simply because of who they are. Antisemitism has no place in our Commonwealth, and neither does discrimination in any form. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission remains committed to protecting civil rights and ensuring that every person has the opportunity to participate fully in the economic and civic life of our communities.”
In a 2025 audit of Antisemitic Incidents, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) recorded 6,274 Antisemitic incidents across the U.S, including 281 incidents in Pennsylvania. Under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, it is unlawful to discriminate on the basis of religious creed, national origin, and ancestry in education, employment, housing, commercial property, or public accommodation. Anyone who has experienced discrimination is urged to file a complaint by calling 717-787-4410.
"The timing of this event, on the eve of the anniversary of Kristallnacht, underscores why Pennsylvanians must remain vigilant against antisemitism and all forms of hate," said PHRC Director of Policy & Intergovernmental Affairs Alana Burman. "Civil discourse and protected speech must never become a pretext for intimidation based on religious identity. No one should be made to feel less than or intimidated because of their ancestry or religious beliefs. The PHRC stands with all who face discrimination in the Commonwealth.”
The Commission also expressed solidarity with business owners, employees, and customers who may feel threatened by the reported activity.
"Pennsylvania's diversity is one of our greatest strengths," said PHRC Civil Rights Outreach Director Sheryl Meck. "Every Pennsylvanian, regardless of faith or background, deserves the opportunity to earn a living, operate a business, and participate fully in community life with safety and dignity. The PHRC stands with those who are targeted because of who they are and encourages community members to respond to hate with unity, respect, and support for one another."
PHRC’s Civil Rights Outreach Division works directly with communities across Pennsylvania to educate residents about their rights, provide training on recognizing and addressing discrimination, and connect individuals and organizations with resources to respond effectively to hate and bias.
Information and resources are available on the PHRC website. Follow the PHRC on X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
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