BOYCOTT
Since 2015, 33 states have passed laws suppressing boycotts of Israel by American companies and individuals objecting to Israel’s human rights record. These laws have broad implications for everyday Americans and negate historical precedents protecting the nonviolent measure. BOYCOTT profiles three ordinary citizens challenging the laws after their respective states blacklisted them for refusing to sign an anti-boycott pledge. Attorney Mikkel Jordahl can’t renew his contract to provide legal services to Arizona’s incarcerated. Bahia Amawi can no longer work in the Texas public school system. Arkansas Times publisher Alan Leveritt loses ad revenue to maintain journalistic integrity. Each is driven by different personal convictions, but all are compelled to take legal action to protect civil liberties. While capturing each suit’s progression, director Julia Bacha examines America’s complex history regarding boycotts and the developing trend to censure nonviolent protest, investigating what caused the shift in thinking and who stands to benefit. It’s a stirring call to safeguard free speech — a crucial component of democracy.
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