Mayors from U.S. and Canada Join Forces to Launch Anti-BDS Initiative

Mayors from across the United States and Canada gathered in Beverly Hills, California, to launch a groundbreaking initiative against the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement and to combat antisemitism. The summit, organized by the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM), brought together approximately 170 prominent municipal leaders and featured key Israeli representatives.

The highlight of the event was the introduction of the Municipal Action Index Against Antisemitism, a tool designed to evaluate local governments on their commitment to addressing antisemitism. Organizers emphasized the urgency of the initiative, stating, “Antisemitism is an urgent and growing threat, endangering not only Jewish communities but also the core values of our diverse democratic society. Mayors have a unique ability to proactively address antisemitism at the local level, where it is most acutely felt.”

Israeli municipal leader Yisrael Ganz, Governor of the Binyamin Regional Council and Chairman of the Yesha Council, attended the summit to express gratitude for the solidarity shown toward Israeli communities. Speaking on behalf of Israeli leaders, Ganz urged the mayors to take a bold stand against the BDS movement, which he described as antisemitic and harmful to global democratic values.

“The BDS movement is antisemitic, operating under the guise of political criticism. In a free world, it has no place,” Ganz said. “What began as a boycott of Judea and Samaria’s products has escalated into a boycott and incitement campaign against the entire State of Israel, Israelis, and Jews everywhere.”

Ganz encouraged municipal leaders to work toward outlawing BDS initiatives in their cities and states, highlighting the dangers of allowing antisemitic ideologies to fester. “You have the opportunity to guide this great nation toward a more moral and secure future not only for Jews but for yourselves, as citizens of the free world who cherish liberty.”

The summit also paid tribute to Israeli leaders and communities for their resilience over the past year, particularly in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas massacre. The Mayor of Beverly Hills announced that the city’s October 7 Memorial, established to honor the victims, will become a permanent fixture.

This initiative reflects the growing determination of U.S. and Canadian leaders to address antisemitism proactively and support Israel at a time when global antisemitic rhetoric and actions are on the rise.

Share this article to spread awareness and stay connected by subscribing to our newsletter for updates on Israel and the fight against antisemitism.