Page 29 - Issue 30

No matter how strongly one might disagree with or oppose the
rhetoric or goals of specific movements and efforts, the right to
boycott is an important part of our democracy. Over 70 percent of
Americans — including supermajorities of Democrats, Republicans
and Independents — oppose laws that penalize those who boycott
Israel, because they believe such measures “infringe on the
Constitutional right to free speech and peaceful protest.”

Using the full force and power of government to penalize those who
exercise their rights in opposition to Israeli policy does nothing but
generate further attention and sympathy for boycotts, and frames
backing Israel as being in opposition to fundamental freedoms in the
minds of many Americans. That is a strategic disaster for those, like
us, who are trying to maintain and grow a healthy US-Israel
relationship.

We greatly appreciate you taking the time to consider the full range
of views within the Jewish and pro-Israel community on this complex
yet consequential matter, and would welcome the opportunity to
further discuss it with you and other relevant state officials.

Sincerely,

Ameinu
Americans for Peace Now
Habonim Dror North America
J Street
New Israel Fund
Partners for Progressive Israel
T'ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights