1. United States
2. Colo.
3. Letter

I’m reaching out to implore you to oppose and vote “NO” on H.R. 5179, the Anti-BDS Labeling Act (https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/5179?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22H.R.+5179%2C+the+Anti-BDS+Labeling+Act%22%7D&s=1&r=1). H.R. 5179 seeks to enforce deceptive labeling practices by requiring products made in illegally-occupied areas of the West Bank to be labeled as “made in Israel.” Such labeling not only ignores international law but also undermines Palestinian rights and misleads American consumers. In a statement, CAIR Government Affairs Department Coordinator Shafiquil Muhshna said: “This bill seeks to allow falsely labeling products from illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank as if they were made in Israel. This is not just misleading—it is an endorsement of the ongoing denial of Palestinian rights and a violation of international law. Opposing this bill is taking a stand for truth, justice, and the right of consumers to make informed, ethical choices. Call on your senators today to reject this dangerous legislation and stand for transparency and fairness.” This legislation is also a direct attack on the First Amendment protected Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, a peaceful form of advocacy that seeks to hold Israel accountable for its human rights abuses against Palestinians. By advancing such legislation, the U.S. government would not only favor Israeli interests but also interfere with the rights of American consumers to make informed, ethical decisions about the products they purchase. The United Nations General Assembly reaffirmed its stance on this issue on September 18, 2024, when it overwhelmingly voted to adopt a resolution demanding that Is rael “bring to an end without delay its unlawful presence” in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Do the right thing. Vote NO on H.R. 5179.