In a recent guest column, a writer wrote in support of “de-shelving Israeli products” from River Valley [“Co-op deshelving campaign part of global anti-apartheid movement,” Gazette, Sept. 28]. For those who aren’t familiar with the BDS movement — it stands for boycott, divestment and sanctions.

Please take a few minutes to familiarize yourself and learn about the truth regarding this campaign. It is not local but seeks to sanction Israel exclusively. The BDS movement also continues to omit all horrific acts of Oct. 7, 2023 — that continues today with the holding of over 100 hostages — committed by the terrorist organization Hamas.

As a Jew, and active co-op owner, I cannot abide by this antisemitic double standard. Perhaps this movement and others locally could investigate other countries where women have diminished rights. Or focus on countries where lesbians and gay men get jailed or executed for their mere existence. One doesn’t have to search too long.

Shortly after the Jordanian annexation of the West Bank in 1950, same-sex acts were decriminalized across the territory with adoption of the Jordanian Penal Code of 1951. In the Egyptian-occupied Gaza Strip, and under Hamas’ rule however, no such initiative was implemented.

There are many countries whose human rights are limited. Does the co-op carry their products? Probably. But locally, the co-op champions all human rights and collectively celebrates us. Let’s continue to support that local collective without inserting double standards.

Veronica Darmon

Northampton