Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions

In 2005, Palestinian civil society launched the global Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, calling for action against Israel until it complies with international law and respects Palestinian rights. BDS empowers people of conscience worldwide to take a stand and support the Palestinian struggle for freedom, justice, and equality.

Why boycott?
Boycotts apply economic and public pressure on companies and institutions complicit in Israel’s system of apartheid, military occupation, and violations of Palestinian rights. The BDS movement identifies key targets to ensure that collective efforts are strategic, coordinated, and effective.

High-Priority Boycott Targets

(official BDS list)

These companies are frontline targets for consumer action. Avoid purchasing their products and services:

Puma – Sponsors the Israel Football Association, which includes teams based in illegal settlements.
Siemens – Supplies infrastructure for Israel’s settlement rail projects
Hewlett-Packard (HP) – Provides technology and services to Israeli government and military systems.
AXA – Holds financial ties to companies involved in Israel’s arms industry and settlements.
Carrefour – Operates supermarket branches in illegal Israeli settlements.
Ahava – Produces cosmetics using minerals extracted from the occupied Dead Sea.
SodaStream – Formerly based in settlements and continues to profit from the exploitation of Palestinian land and labor.
Sabra – Hummus brand co-owned by the Israeli Strauss Group, a supporter of the IDF.

TAKE ACTION

Break the Bonds

As New York employees, retirees, taxpayers, and residents, we envision a state where all communities can thrive — with access to quality education, healthcare, and housing.

Yet, State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli continues to invest hundreds of millions of dollars from New York’s retirement funds into Israel Bonds — unrestricted loans that directly support Israel’s apartheid system, illegal settlements, and the ongoing violence against Palestinians.

With over $352 million invested as of March 2024, these bonds are not only ethically indefensible but also financially risky and low-return. DiNapoli’s decision to buy over $100 million more after October 7, 2023, shows a clear disregard for both justice and his duty to protect workers’ pensions.

We call on Comptroller DiNapoli to divest from Israel Bonds and invest instead in sustainable, ethical funds that serve New Yorkers — just as New York City once divested from apartheid South Africa in 1984.

New York must stop funding Israeli apartheid and genocide.

What You Can Do:

Sign the petition calling on Comptroller DiNapoli to divest New York’s retirement funds from Israel Bonds.
Email or call the Comptroller’s office to demand transparency and ethical investment practices.
Spread the word — share this campaign with friends, family, and coworkers.
Organize or join local actions for divestment and solidarity with Palestine.
Follow SPC’s updates for events, educational sessions, and volunteer opportunities.
Contact the New York State Assembly: Go to nyassembly.gov/mem to find your New York State Assembly representative. You can email or call them directly through their page and ask them to take action.