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[ [link removed] ]Subscribe to Word on the street and watch Jeremy Ben-Ami and Peter
Beinart debate BDS

Friends,

Peter Beinart and I have been debating – productively, passionately – for
many years. But this week, we had one of our most important conversations
yet, and I think it’s worth your attention.

It began when Peter apologized for speaking at Tel Aviv University, citing
pressure from BDS activists – and I publicly disagreed, arguing that we
won’t strengthen our movements by narrowing where we can talk or who we
can talk to.

Before I go further, if you want to watch the debate, get full access to
my column about Peter’s apology and join thousands following these
conversations in real time, subscribe to Word on the Street here. It’s
free, and it’s where I share everything first.

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Now, why did this particular disagreement matter so much?

Because it’s not just about Tel Aviv University. It’s not even just about
Peter’s apology. It’s about something fundamental: How we engage across
lines of difference, and whether we allow pressure, from any direction, to
shut down debate.

Peter and I see this moment differently. We both care deeply about
justice, equality and freedom. We both believe in uplifting Palestinian
voices, and we both despise the occupation.

But when it comes to boycotts, engagement and where we should or shouldn’t
speak – our paths diverge. And the stakes feel higher than ever. Instead
of writing past each other, we sat down and talked directly, honestly and
respectfully.

I won’t spoil the conversation. If you care about Israel-Palestine, how we
expand our movement or the future of Jewish communal debate, it’s a
conversation I hope you’ll spend some time with.

[ [link removed] ]Watch the Debate & Subscribe to Word on the Street

Thank you for being part of a community that believes in showing up,
listening deeply and arguing toward a better future.

Onward,

Jeremy Ben-Ami
President, J Street


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J Street is the political home for pro-Israel, pro-peace, pro-democracy
Americans who want Israel to be secure, democratic and the national home of the
Jewish people. Working in American politics and the Jewish community, we
advocate policies that advance shared US and Israeli interests as well as Jewish
and democratic values, leading to a two-state solution to the
Israeli-Palestinian conflict.



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