The Baltimore City Green Party (BGP) opposes SB739/HB949, which would stifle free speech by penalizing companies, organizations, and people who boycott Israel in support of Palestinian human rights. The proposed legislation would violate the First Amendment, which includes boycott as a form of protected speech (NAACP v. Claiborne Hardware Co.). We specifically condemn participation of members of the Baltimore delegation, Sen. Carter-Conway and Del. Haynes, in this attempt to squelch dissent and uphold Israel’s apartheid policies.

The call of Palestinian civil society for Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) was first issued in 2005. Its stated purpose is:

“1. Ending its occupation and colonization of all Arab lands and dismantling the Wall;

 2. Recognizing the fundamental rights of the Arab-Palestinian citizens of Israel to full equality; and

3. Respecting, protecting and promoting the rights of Palestinian refugees to return to their homes and properties as stipulated in UN resolution 194.”

BDS was affirmed by national Green Party U.S. the same year it was issued. As a local chapter of the Green Party, the BGP stands in solidarity with Palestinians and Marylanders engaging in BDS tactics. BGP calls on its 1,200 members and more than 10,000 2016 voters to oppose SB739/HB949.

For More Information

GPUS Endorsement-http://gp.org/cgi-bin/vote/propdetail?pid=825

MD Senate Bill-http://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2017RS/bills/sb/sb0739F.pdf#page=9

First Amendment Letter http://bordc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/BORDC-MCCRC-First-Amendment-Letter-1.pdf

Contact Your State Legislator-http://www.freedom2boycottmd.com/legislators_oppose