On Monday, over 100 individuals were taken into custody by police during a protest on the steps of the Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The demonstration was organized to voice opposition to the state government's investments in Israel. A spokesperson for the Department of General Services confirmed that the protest was unpermitted and unauthorized, leading to the arrests.
According to the spokesperson, the 126 individuals were ordered to disperse before being arrested. They were then issued citations for trespassing and subsequently released. The protestors, many wearing T-shirts reading 'divest from genocide,' enthusiastically chanted and clapped during the event. Their primary concern was the Pennsylvania Treasury Department's investment in Israel bonds.
A large sign displayed at the protest called for the state to redirect tax money from such investments towards crucial areas like healthcare, housing, schools, and climate initiatives. Prior to being arrested, chants of 'free Palestine' echoed throughout the demonstration. The protest was organized by several groups, including Jewish Voice for Peace, the Philly Palestine Coalition, and the Pennsylvania Council on American-Islamic Relations.
Lilah Saber, one of the participants, emphasized that the protest solely targeted the state's investment in Israel bonds. She stated that while the intention was not to get arrested, they were prepared to stand up for their cause.
Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity, a Republican, defended the state's investment in Israel bonds, highlighting that treasurers from both political parties have been involved in such investments for over three decades. In a statement released by her office, Garrity mentioned that the state's share of Israel bonds has risen by $20 million following the recent Hamas attack that sparked the Gaza conflict. Currently, the state holds $56 million in Israel bonds and approximately $8 million in other Israel-based securities. However, when considering the entire portfolio managed by the Treasury Department, these investments amount to only 0.14%.
It is worth noting that a correction has been made to the original story. Lilah Saber was incorrectly identified as a member of Jewish Voice for Peace, when in fact, she is a protester.
The protest in Harrisburg sheds light on the ongoing debate surrounding state investments in Israel, reflecting the diverse perspectives and voices within the community.
