When it comes to BDS, Germany won’t tolerate “don’t ask, don’t tell” either. I have no idea whether Kweli would have said a word about the Palestinians at his show, and neither do the show’s organizers. Some of Kweli’s songs mention his support for the Palestinians and opposition to Israeli policies, but it’s hardly a primary theme of his. It’s just one piece among many of his stances for social justice. He did not start this; the festival producers asked him as a litmus test for his entry.Continue Reading

The EU find a way for Trump to back off of his “maximum pressure” strategy while allowing him to claim a victory, even if he lies about it, as the president did with Mexico. That path is risky, because it calls for a firmer, more direct stance from the European Union. We know how Trump treats allies who stand up to him. But it is a far smaller risk than the current situation, where one mistake could lead to the widest Mideast war yet, threatening the lives of millions and crippling the global economy.Continue Reading

A caucus like this new one must include the widest possible scope of legitimate views, but Zeldin’s history reflects views that fall outside the scope of legitimacy. His presence in this caucus is fundamentally incompatible with a stance opposing white nationalism, anti-Semitism, and racism. Moreover, the association of this caucus with Rep. John Lewis (D-GA) will undoubtedly give Zeldin cover for more attacks on people of color over the issue of Palestine. If the caucus is to have legitimacy, Zeldin cannot be a part of it.Continue Reading