Discussion planned of anti-boycott act

Our senator, Rob Portman, is a main sponsor of the Israel Anti-Boycott Act, which is a piece of legislation that, according to the Congressional Research Service, “prohibits U.S. persons engaged in interstate or foreign commerce from: requesting the imposition of any boycott by a foreign country against a country which is friendly to the United States; or, supporting any boycott fostered or imposed by an international organization, or requesting imposition of any such boycott, against Israel.”

Violations of the act would appear to carry a civil fine of up to $250,000, a criminal fine of up to $1,000,000, or a prison sentence of up to 20 years. This effort to stifle advocacy for Palestinian human rights might create an unconstitutional and morally wrong infringement upon speech.

Last week, the American Civil Liberties Union issued a letter explaining this. Sen. Portman responded by emphasizing his “long history of defending the civil rights of all Americans.”

Jewish Voice for Peace Central Ohio will host a discussion of this proposed legislation (S.720) on Wednesday, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Columbus Public Library, Main Branch (96 S. Grant Ave) in Room 3A.

A representative from the American Civil Liberties Union might attend. All are invited.

Amy Shuster Columbus