An Open Letter Regarding the Antizionist Vandalism in Cavendish 

An Open Letter Regarding the Antizionist Vandalism in Cavendish

The recent antizionist graffiti targeting a Jewish-owned business in Cavendish was not merely an act of property damage. It was an act of intimidation aimed at a Jewish member of our community.

Vermont Friends of Israel condemns this unequivocally. No Jew should be targeted, threatened, or ostracized because of their identity or connection to Israel.

We recognize that the individual responsible later apologized publicly to the business owner and the Cavendish community. Though political anger does not excuse vandalism, Denise Gebroe of DG Body Works responded with dignity and restraint. She called for unity, dialogue, and forgiveness while speaking honestly about the pain caused by antizionism.

The Apartheid-Free Community campaign has spent years urging Vermont towns, organizations, and neighbors to treat support for Israel as unacceptable in public life. When a Jewish woman is targeted with antizionist graffiti, the connection cannot be ignored. We recognize it as a direct consequence of the demonization of our community since Israel was attacked on October 7th, 2023.

We are grateful to the Vermonters who spoke out clearly against this incident and our mission remains clear: fight antisemitism, support Israel’s right to exist, foster respectful community, and advance education about Israel throughout Vermont.

Sincerely,

Vermont Friends of Israel