Staff Reports
A New York bookstore has pulled off what can only be described as a stunning display of selective tolerance. The Powerhouse Arena in Brooklyn canceled a much-anticipated book launch for author Joshua Leifer mere hours before it was set to begin. The reason? The event’s moderator, Rabbi Andy Bachman, happens to hold pro-Israel views, which didn’t sit well with the bookstore’s management. Apparently, in today’s world, being supportive of Jewish rights is just too controversial for some.
The planning for this literary soirée had been ongoing for about a week.
The store even had the gall to promote the event on their website, complete with a bio and photo of Rabbi Bachman. However, the plot thickened when the bookstore’s manager, citing “unforeseen circumstances,” decided to yank the rug out from under them at the last minute. It seems that being a proud supporter of Israel in the current climate is akin to wearing a sandwich board that reads “I love common sense!” in a room full of ideological purists.
Powerhouse Books abruptly and arbitrarily cancelled an event featuring Rabbi Andy Bachman simply because he is a pro-Israel Jew.
The far left is making “Zionists” (i.e. most Jews) the exception to progressivism’s rule against discrimination. pic.twitter.com/WETydgwerd
— Ritchie Torres (@RitchieTorres) August 21, 2024
Things took a turn for the dramatic when Leifer and his wife sought clarity from the Powerhouse management. They were met with hostility and even a threat of security being called on them. The manager explicitly stated that they did not want a “Zionist” on their stage, which could make one wonder how anyone with an appreciation for facts about the Middle East could find a welcoming home in their establishment. Isn’t bookstores supposed to be the bastions of free speech and diverse ideas? Apparently, they are not the ones that prioritize political correctness over rational discourse.
Bachman himself reacted with disbelief, calling the incident “utterly shocking” and a “disheartening experience.” His view of Jewish identity and alignment with Israel had been deemed too incendiary for a dialogue meant to explore these complexities. There’s a strong irony here; while some may advocate for social justice, they seem to forget that silencing dissenting opinions only serves to undermine their cause. How do they plan to champion open dialogue if they’re too busy throwing a fit over pro-Jewish discussions?
This whole fiasco sheds light on a troubling trend: a society where viewpoints that deviate from the prevailing narratives are quickly silenced, especially if they concern Israel. As Bachman eloquently pointed out, being aligned with the Jewish people’s right to their homeland has become a quick ticket to the “uninvited” list in liberal circles. This embarrassing episode should serve as both a humorous and sad reminder of how far intolerance can stretch in a world that prides itself on acceptance—unless, of course, you don’t fit the mold.
