Conflict over Israeli goods sparks antisemitism allegations in Brooklyn co-op

In October 2023, the ongoing war in Gaza sparked intense debates among members of the Park Slope Food Co-op in Brooklyn, USA, about potentially banning Israeli goods from their shelves. The co-op, established over 50 years ago, has historically served as a community hub for progressive individuals and has a strong ethos promoting ethical consumerism. However, the current conflict has exposed divisions among members, with pro-BDS advocates arguing for the boycott of Israeli products against claims of antisemitism from other members. Tensions escalated during monthly general meetings, with some members alleging that hostile actions and comments targeted those who opposed the boycott, casting doubt over the co-op's inclusive principles. As discussions continued, Ramon Maislen, a former board candidate, escalated the situation by filing a complaint with the Division of Human Rights, claiming that he experienced discrimination and antisemitism within the co-op due to his opposition to the boycott. Supporters of the boycott movement acknowledged the reported incidents but insisted that they were not representative of the movement's values, highlighting a need for dialogue among members of differing views. The co-op has faced similar controversies in the past; a 2012 proposal to boycott Israeli products was voted down. This historical context adds complexity to the current discourse, amplified by the co-op's confined meeting space that limits participation and feedback from the wider membership. Consequently, the potential lack of responsiveness from the co-op leadership is still troubling to many. Voting and discussions remain ongoing, but some members are increasingly distressed, feeling unsafe within the community they valued. Events have led to a feeling of anxiety among members who previously felt secure in their shopping and communal engagement.