If you’re heartbroken by the hurricane while feeling gutted from over a year of genocide in Gaza, you’re not alone. For many, these deep griefs are compounding one another; they’re of course connected.
U.S militarism, like the U.S and Israel’s collaborative genocide, is the biggest contributor to the climate crisis that caused Helene to be so catastrophic. There are many articles (including this one at avl.mx/edt) about how Israel’s bombardment of Gaza is uniquely devastating to the environment.
If you’re experiencing despair, let me highlight a powerful way you can divest from Israel’s violence while pouring into our local community that’s in such dire need. It’s currently the busiest shopping season; how you spend is meaningful. Your taxes already fund the genocide in Gaza, but you can ensure not another hard-earned cent of yours goes toward this grave injustice. Year-round, choose to boycott companies that do business with Israel and support local artisans and small businesses trying to survive in the hurricane’s aftermath. You can learn more at [avl.mx/edv]. And of course, we have so many wonderful local artists, herbalists, independent bookstores, etc., to support at this critical time.
I’ll conclude with this moving plea by Ashira Darwish from the film Where Olive Trees Weep: “We don’t ask for people to rescue us anymore. That chapter is over. Palestinians can rescue ourselves if you at least stop supporting the machine. If the machine is ostracized, we can keep going, because nothing in the world will stop the people in Jerusalem. Nothing in the universe will stop them. But we need you. If you can’t be our voice, at least don’t put a penny toward the bullet that shoots our children.”
— Vida King
Asheville
Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement claims to advocate for justice and human rights, but its methods and underlying agenda often undermine constructive dialogue and efforts toward a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
At its core, BDS promotes economic, cultural, and academic boycotts against Israel, ostensibly to pressure the country into changing its policies toward Palestinians. However, these measures disproportionately harm ordinary Israelis and Palestinians alike, rather than fostering mutual understanding or supporting grassroots efforts for peace. Targeting academics, artists, and businesses often punishes individuals who may be actively working toward reconciliation and coexistence.
Moreover, the BDS movement’s sweeping approach ignores the complex realities of the region. It often paints the conflict in black-and-white terms, failing to acknowledge the legitimate security concerns of Israel or the multifaceted challenges faced by Palestinians. Lasting peace requires nuanced solutions and collaborative efforts, not blanket condemnations or divisive tactics.
The movement also risks exacerbating antisemitism by singling out Israel in ways that are inconsistent with how other nations are treated. This double standard fuels resentment and further polarizes communities, rather than building bridges.
Instead of boycotts and divestments, we should support initiatives that encourage dialogue, economic cooperation, and cultural exchanges between Israelis and Palestinians. These efforts can help create opportunities, foster mutual understanding, and lay the groundwork for a sustainable peace.
Typical Zionist doublespeak. I’ve been to Palestine three times and have seen the ugliness of apartheid up close and personal. The world MUST stop giving the Jewish community a free pass from morality and accountability. What Israel is committing, with American treasure and applause, is crimes against humanity.
Thank you, Vida. Couldn’t agree more.
I’m really looking forward to what President Trump’s response is going to be to Hamas if they don’t release all the hostages by inauguration. It could be biblical! Hopefully one less terrorist organization.