Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh fighting in court against proposed city referendum targeting Israel

[Mosby]

[JEWISH GROUP]

The Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh and leaders of several synagogue congregations have filed legal challenges to a proposed voter referendum targeting those who do business with or in Israel.

They argue that passing the referendum would hurt and endanger Jewish houses of worship and organizations.

"Targeting our Jewish community, time and time again. Two weeks ago, the Federation held a press conference after the antisemitic graffiti at the Federation and at the Chabad of Squirrel Hill was found. This referendum is the latest action against our community," said Jeff Finkelstein, President and CEO, Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh.

The legal filing challenges a petition to put a referendum on the November ballot. The referendum would prohibit "investment or allocation of public funds, including tax exemptions, to entities that conduct business operations with or in the state of Israel, unless and until Israel ends its military action in Gaza" and fully allows humanitarian aid there.

https://www.wtae.com/article/israel-gaza-war-pittsburgh-referendum-legal-challenge/61869869