Why We Boycott

A broad coalition of advocacy groups working across social justice movements issued a letter today calling on members of the U.S. House of Representatives to support a resolution upholding the right to boycott for justice. Introduced by Representatives Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, and John Lewis, H. Res. 496 affirms that “all Americans have the right to participate in boycotts in pursuit of civil and human rights at home and abroad, as protected by the First Amendment.” 

Signed by 40 organizations ranging from antiwar and human rights groups to environmental, racial justice, and indigenous rights advocates to reproductive justice, LGBTQIA+, and religious organizations, today’s letter states, “At a moment when freedom of speech, association, and assembly are coming under increasing attack across the board, affirming our right to boycott is more important than ever. We must stand strong against all attempts to suppress protected political speech.”  

“Congress must unabashedly defend the right to boycott for justice, including the right to boycott for Palestinian rights,” said senior staff attorney Meera Shah. 

To date, 27 states have adopted laws or executive orders that punish those who engage in boycotts for Palestinian rights. The resolution calls on Congress, states, and civil rights leaders "to preserve the freedom of advocacy for all by opposing antiboycott resolutions and legislation.” 

Tell Congress: Protect our right to boycott for justice (via USCPR)

Go to righttoboycott.org for more information on legislation.