Primary foes Goldman, Lander unite against Park Slope Food Coop Israel boycott

Rep. Dan Goldman and former city Comptroller Brad Lander face a contentious Democratic primary for Congress, with a major policy difference focused on aid to Israel. Despite that divide, both agree that a local boycott of Israeli products at Park Slope Food Coop should not be pursued. Some progressive, politically engaged co-op members are frustrated by the shared stance and worry that politics and Israel have become embedded in daily life, including at the grocery store. Members are scheduled to vote on two resolutions: one would lower the threshold for adopting a boycott from a 75% supermajority to a simple majority, and the other would boycott Israeli goods until Israel complies with international law regarding treatment of Palestinians. The vote will be held online due to expected attendance and security concerns, including fears of protests and prior physical altercations.

"Rep. Dan Goldman and former city Comptroller Brad Lander are locked in a contentious Democratic primary for Congress, with one key policy difference centering on aid to Israel. But when it comes to a possible local boycott of Israeli products at the Park Slope Food Coop, the two rivals agree: Don't do it."

"Co-op members are set to vote on two resolutions on Tuesday night. One would change the rules to allow members to adopt a boycott with a simple majority vote, as opposed to the current rule requiring a 75% supermajority. The second would boycott Israeli goods "until Israel complies with international law, including by ceasing unlawful discriminatory practices, in its treatment of Palestinians.""

"The meeting will be held exclusively online due to the number of attendees expected to attend, as well as mounting concerns about security and potential protests. Management sent an email over the weekend detailing tension from conversations that have devolved into "physical altercations" and even warne"

Read at Gothamist