Karen Shapiro

Ballot article spreads misinformation, deepens hostility

BRATTLEBORO-For the Brattleboro voters, the March 4 ballot is about more than just a symbolic pledge, it's about whether Brattleboro will support a divisive and misleading political statement.

Article II asks voters to approve a pledge declaring the town an "apartheid-free community." It specifically targets Israel, accusing it of apartheid, settler colonialism, and military occupation.

As a Jewish resident, I am alarmed by the rise in anti-Israel sentiment disguised as human rights activism. A pledge like this does not help anyone; instead, it spreads misinformation and deepens hostility. Why should the town take a stand that ignores Israel's right to self-defense and emboldens narratives that fuel antisemitism?

We should be working toward solutions that promote real coexistence, not taking sides in an international conflict with no easy answers. Please vote no on this harmful pledge.

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