The recent federal court ruling in Arkansas threatens the First Amendment's protection of politically motivated consumer boycotts. This ruling challenges the constitutionality of boycotts, particularly those against Israel or Israeli settlements. The case involves laws compelling individuals and businesses with government contracts to pledge non-participation in such boycotts. The Arkansas Times, despite not boycotting Israel, refused to sign this certification, arguing it infringes on their freedom of conscience and First Amendment rights. This issue impacts various professions and even disaster relief recipients. The ACLU has petitioned the Supreme Court to reaffirm the right to boycott, a form of protest with historical roots dating back to the American Revolution. The Supreme Court recognized the right to boycott as protected expression in NAACP v. Claiborne Hardware (1982). Therefore, it is requested to support the repeal of all anti-boycott laws and uphold the First Amendment rights.
First sent on February 3 by Weston
