Much of the following sections are drawn directly from the content of the International BDS Campaign
Cultural Action
Israel overtly uses culture as a form of propaganda to whitewash or justify its regime of occupation, settler-colonialism and apartheid over the Palestinian people. Just as South African anti-apartheid activists had called on international artists, writers and cultural institutions to culturally boycott South Africa. The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel urges international cultural workers and cultural organizations, including unions and associations, to boycott and/or work towards the cancellation of events, activities, agreements, or projects involving Israel, its lobby groups or its cultural institutions.
International venues and festivals are asked to reject funding and any form of sponsorship from the Israeli government. Thousands of artists across the world now refuse to perform in Israel, including a host of global superstars such as Roger Waters from Pink Floyd, Lauryn Hill and Chuck D.
The cultural boycott does not target artists just because they are Israeli, but only when they are complicit in the Israeli state. Israeli artists who receive state funding to perform overseas often sign a contract pledging “to promote the policy interests of the State of Israel via culture and art, including contributing to creating a positive image for Israel,” thus forfeiting any claim to artistic freedom. Some international venues are increasingly reluctant to accept Israeli government funding or host artists/writers funded by the Israeli government.
In line with the recommendations of the BDS movement, care should be taken to ensure that targets for cultural boycott are appropriate and based upon the criteria above. Unions, branches and union members should consult with the STUC before undertaking campaigning action or supporting action of others.
