In a proactive measure to reject and condemn acts of hate and economic antagonism, the Oyster Bay Town Board unanimously adopted legislation that bars Town government from doing business with individuals or companies that openly boycott American allies, including Israel.
“The Town of Oyster Bay stands united with our international allies in opposition to the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement, which openly discriminates and attempts to isolate Israel and other United States allies from taking part in the international community,” Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said. “This legislation, which I’m proud to say was unanimously approved by the Town Board will help to protect our residents from hostile businesses and organizations, as it is a strong signal our Town will not accept or condone bigotry and anti-Semitism.”
The local law, which was passed at the Town Board’s recent public meeting held on June 6, 2017, requires individuals or companies seeking to do business with the town to submit a certification that they do not engage in a boycott of the United States of America and its allies, which include Israel, all NATO member nations, signatories of the Southeast Asian Treaty Organization, signatories of the Rio Treaty of 1947 (excluding Venezuela), Ireland, Japan, and The Republic of Korea. Additionally, included in the certification, individuals or companies must pledge to not engage in a boycott for the duration of the contract, and any such violations of this law could result in the town rescinding a contract and seeking reliance damages based on the signed certification not being honored.
“We hope that other local municipalities will follow in the Town’s footsteps and stand against the BDS movement,” Supervisor Saladino said. “The Town has remained committed to opposing discrimination, against our local communities, including hate speech, especially following a series of incidents targeting the Jewish population of Plainview within the last 6 months. As a result of these incidents, I’m proud to say that on top of passing this law which shows no tolerance for discrimination of any sort, the Town has also continued to partner with law enforcement organizations and religious institutions in responding to hateful graffiti and vandalism of houses of worship and other locations. Residents can rest assured that the Town of Oyster Bay will never conduct business with those who condone bigotry, anti-Semitism, and look to hurt American allies.”
Supervisor Saladino and the Oyster Bay Town Board’s actions were praised by David Lee, President of the Korean American Public Affairs Committee. “I strongly support Oyster Bay Town’s Passing Anti-BDS Legislation, Condemning Those Who Boycott American Allies,” Mr. Lee said. “Through Supervisor Joseph Saladino’s leadership, the Town Board’s proactive measure to reject and condemn acts of hate and economic antagonism is very crucial motion to enrich and protect American diversity. I applaud Supervisor Saladino’s vision for the future of Oyster Bay Town and it’s residents.”